The mid-size sedan market isn’t as big as it used to be with more and more of us switching to crossovers and SUVs. However, the Toyota Camry is still a big seller with space and a friendly price.
I spent a week with the Camry Hybrid XLE, which provides the value and space that makes a sedan relevant today. The 2024 Camry is cruising toward the end of this generation before the next version launches for 2025. That new Camry will also be a hybrid like this model, and it really is efficient with a gallon of gas.
Built for fuel economy and not quick acceleration, the power is adequate for most buyers. This will likely be the last year for the V6 version, so buy sooner if that’s a must have. Where the Camry Hybrid excels is its smooth and comfortable ride, which might remind you of an old Buick or Cadillac that soaks up most bumps nicely.
Inside, the Camry provides a roomy interior with space for five. The head and legroom are impressive for a mid-size sedan. The XLE trim level is a more luxurious version of the Camry and comes with comfortable leather-trimmed, heated and ventilated seats good for the long haul. However, you can find yourself sliding around a bit in some quicker corners as the leather seems a bit slick. The 9-inch touch screen is easy to use and there is even an optional 10-inch head-up display.
This version of the Camry was the first one to really push the styling for the usually conservative popular sedan. With a large grill up front, it has taken the once staid Toyota to a real standout in the shrinking mid-size sedan class. Even the color choices, like the bright Supersonic red paint, enhance it and help it stand out in the crowded parking lot. The XLE trim level also comes with sleek LED lighting with more style than the normal headlight clusters on other models. Even the 18-inch machine gray aluminum wheels give this Camry a nice upscale look.
Cost: $32,970; as tested $38,509
MPG: 44 mpg city and 47 mpg highway; I managed 46.6 mpg in 270 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5; pre-collision system with pedestrian detection; full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control; lane departure alert with steering with steering assist; lane tracking assist; blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert; panoramic view monitor assist front and rear parking assist with automatic braking
Options: $1,430 driver assist package; $150 cold weather package; $615 adaptive headlights; $1,760 navigation package; $860 power/tilt sunroof; $425 special color; $299 trunk/floor mat set
Things to know: The Toyota Camry XLE Hybrid is a fuel-efficient sedan and the 2024 is the last year before redesign so expect a better price before the 2025 hits the stage.
Pros:
- A fuel-efficient sedan that will not make many stops for gas.
- Spacious sedan with good head and leg room.
- Might be able to save some money on a 2024 model before the new 2025 model year.
Cons:
- Brakes can be touchy at lower speeds.
- Not very quick when you hit the gas pedal.
- Trunk space is a bit less than some other mid-size sedans.
