For people who still want a sedan, it often comes down to two excellent options: the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry.
One difference-maker Toyota is leaning into is bad weather traction, as in the case of this Camry XSE with all-wheel drive.
This sporty XSE has a four-cylinder hybrid power train, primarily propelling the front wheels with an electric motor helping when the rear wheels slip.
The Camry now looks fast and stylish in general, though it’s gotten pretty low-slung over the years. That, in turn, puts driver headroom at a premium.
The medium blue metallic paint, called Ocean Gem, does make this look like a gem of a ride. (Other color names include Supersonic Red and Will Chill Pearl. The first sounds impossible and the second sounds dangerous.) Optional dark gray wheels and a black roof help set things off visually, too.
The interior features lots of black, including black leather-trimmed seats. The trunk has a welcome spare tire. And, of course, there’s Toyota’s stellar dependability.
The Camry I drove also includes a $4,075 premium plus package featuring traffic jam assist, lane change assist, ventilated front seats, a premium audio system and a panoramic glass roof.
All of this will set you back $43,694, after shipping. It’s the cost of a Camry that’s upped its game.
