The Toyota Camry offers smooth and reliable transportation that is comfortable and convenient. Clearly, Toyota is moving in the right direction to make this the best-selling car, although, as summary road test results have shown - the Camry does not lead in the midsize sedan category.
The 2015 upgrade includes advanced electronic devices in the interior package, more intuitive controls, improved cabin sound insulation, minor changes to the suspension unit, and a more interesting exterior design. Based on the popularity of the sports package SE, Toyota has presented a higher level of packages: XSE and SE Hybrid.
Despite the advertising hype on the market and the spectacular new grille, the updated Camry is basically the same as it was. The entire powertrain - the 2.5L, 178 hp four-cylinder engine, the optional V6, 3.5L, 268 hp, and the four-cylinder hybrid, 200 hp. - is inherited from the previous model. The hybrid provides an impressively economical fuel economy of 6.19 l/100 km, the average of our tests. The V6 engine also delivers a very competitive fuel consumption figure of 9.05 l/100 km. In turn, the well-known, basic 4-cylinder engine is also quite good, reaching the mark - 8.4 l/100 km, but this figure leaves the Toyota Camry car behind the Honda Accord, Mazda 6, and Nissan Altima, each of which shows a figure of 7.84 l/100 km or less.
The Toyota Camry stands out among the other sedans in this family for its reactive performance and safety parameters while driving. The interior of the car is relatively simple. Inside the cabin, there is enough space and, the controls are easy to use, except for some touchpad buttons, which are too close to each other. All Camry cars are initially very well equipped, particularly the standard rearview camera and the power driver's seat.
Each of the Camrys we tested - the 4-cylinder LE, XLE Hybrid and XLE V6 - have just a few points of contact and meet the demands of a wide range of buyers, from the eco-focused hybrid to the semi-luxury V6. A long history of consistent reliability is another factor in sales growth, for this unassuming sedan.
This generation of Camry vehicles was first introduced in 2012. Hurried structural changes in 2014 improved performance quality. This was proven in a difficult IIHS frontal crash test with partial overlap; the car was showing weakly before these upgrades.
The 2015 model year brought further structural improvements and a new design. The suspension has been reconfigured, noise insulation has been improved, and some of the controls have been made clearer. The XSE model, too, has been updated, and Hybrid models are available for the first time in the new SE and XSE sport package.
Riding impressions
Driving
The Camry's handling is characterized by competence, responsiveness, and safety. Steering response is quite quick and body roll is limited. The resilient suspension keeps the car calm in bumpy corners. No, this is not a sports car, but only intrepid racers can complain about the handling quality.
On the track, the Camry was predictable and stable, even at near cornering speeds. This 4-cylinder Camry posted a commendable 86.9 km/h during our collision-avoidance maneuvers.
Powertrain.
The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission, produces modest and uninterrupted driving power. The officially stated average fuel consumption is 8.4 l/100 km. That's not bad, but other competitors, such as the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Mazda6, show a figure of 7.84 l/100 km or even less. Note that one of the reasons for the Accord and Altima's winning fuel economy is their variable speed drive (CVT). And at the same time, some drivers will prefer the more traditional automatic transmission of the Camry car, even despite the slight increase in fuel consumption. Unlike some competitors, this car has a manual transmission.
If you don't want to put a lot of effort into your driving, which some luxury cars compete for, look to the assertive and stable V6. Despite the exciting power at hand, it still achieves an overall fuel consumption figure of 9.05L/100km. That's not much more than the 4-cylinder engine, which makes the V6 version not such an expensive treat.
The hybrid modification compromises a bit with its variator, which tends to howl when pressed. But this package has an excellent average fuel economy of 6.19 l/100 km. Slight noises, in exchange for economy and long range, are a fair compromise. When power is not in demand, the hybrid can propel the vehicle using only energy from the battery. The transition from using electric power to engaging the engine is very smooth. This is also the case with the start-stop engine system, which shuts off the engine when stopped near signs or at traffic lights to conserve fuel.
Comfort while driving
Toyota Camry moves very well on the road, absorbing all bumps and potholes better than the Honda Accord. The changes in the 2015 suspension are more rigidity, restraining some body movements. As a result, the Camry remains stable and in control, even on frequent bumpy stretches of road. Driving on the freeway is an enjoyable journey. There is an opinion that this car is not as comfortable as the Subaru Legacy.
Noise isolation
The car is very quiet compared to many competitors. Camry gets an advantage due to slightly improved soundproofing, which is manifested by less aerodynamic noise, and a more muffled hum of the engine. The excellent V6 is your choice if you value a high level of quietness in the car, as this engine runs lighter when accelerating.
Brakes
The Toyota Camry performed very well in our braking test, with quick stops on both wet and dry surfaces. Pedal modulation works well, and it was very easy to change speed.
Headlights
The use of quality headlights has been the norm for several recent versions of the Camry. Fortunately, the new model continues this winning line. The performance of the bulbs used is an excellent example of how standard halogen bulbs can provide very good visibility at night. No flashy, expensive headlights are used in this car. Not only is visibility in front impressive, but also, very good lateral visibility - such features are often associated with the latest lighting technologies, such as HID and LED. Unfortunately, the design of the headlight switch provides a function to turn off the daytime running lights (DRLs).
Toyota Camry interior
Build quality and interior finishes
Once seated in the base Camry, your attention will be drawn to the stitched and upholstered top of the dashboard. That's where all the luxury elements in the Camry's substantial interior design end. Higher trim level cars add leather seats and wood elements to create an upscale look. All in all, the interior trim matches the price and purpose of the car.
Driving position.
The car provides ample head, leg and foot room, allowing both tall and short drivers to feel comfortable behind the wheel. The foot niche near the driver's seat is wide, with a good foot rest on the left, but some testers found that the console was taking up a bit of space in the niche on the right. Someone voiced a desire to add more mobility to the steering wheel.
Visibility
Large windows and narrow, carefully trimmed windshield pillars combine to create good visibility for the driver. All Camry vehicles are equipped with a rearview camera. An optional blind spot warning system is available, and it works well.
Seat comfort
The Camry car's seats are really good, as for the base set. They are relatively flat, and yet have plenty of room for passengers of all sizes. The driver's seat's standard electric controls, including in the lumbar region, allow you to adjust the seat to your comfort standards. Be that as it may, several people have felt that the lumbar unit does not get into the lumbar area; too bad it is not height-adjustable. The optional leather seats, in general, support the back a bit better than the cloth seats, thanks to the stiffer padding. Regardless of the trim materials, many drivers have complained that the seat cushions are short, worsening the degree of support.
The spacious rear undivided seat is spacious enough in the shoulder, head, and leg area to make the 3 passengers feel most comfortable. Although the seat is a little low, this was done for optimal hip support.
Seating
Large doors and plenty of legroom guarantee easy boarding in the front and rear seats.
Measurement sensors
Backlit gauges are large and easy to read. A full-color instrument panel screen displays fuel consumption and other route information; navigating its menus is easy.
Controls
In general, the controls are very simple, with large, clear buttons and joysticks for climate control. The standard touchscreen radio, too, has large joysticks for adjusting volume and settings. Radio button design is a bit inconsistent: huge traditional buttons surround the touchmonitor, and the "buttons" on the monitor are small and very close to each other, which makes it very difficult to press the right one, while driving. The optional upgraded audio system has a bigger screen, which makes it a little easier to use. Either way, you have to reach for the touchscreen to use its functions. I wish you could navigate by directly pressing the MAP or NAV button rather than using the app menus.
Phone
You can easily connect to your phone. However, a few times our Bluetooth audio playlist didn't play automatically, after a call.
Enhanced models are equipped with the Entune multimedia system, which uses your smartphone to connect to a variety of apps. These apps allow you to find out the location of restaurants and their contacts, listen to the radio, make reservations, find a movie... The Entune installation process is simple enough.
Music
Standard equipment includes an AM/FM/CD stereo with 6 speakers. The upgraded package includes a premium JBL audio system with 10 speakers and a subwoofer. The upgraded system features easy-to-use steering wheel controls that allow you to adjust the volume, switch to the next previously set radio station, and change the sound source. The center touchscreen shows you all the song information (including album art), and gives you access to all songs, podcasts, and playlists. You'll also have access to your complete music library via Bluetooth if you don't have a USB cable.
Voice Commands
The instructions on the monitor are very helpful in familiarizing you with the system. However, the protocols are somewhat more cumbersome and regimented than in other voice input systems.
Voice commands can be used to launch applications, initiate a call, play music, search for landmarks, or enter an address, all using normal human speech.
Navigation
The navigation system works well, as proven by experience on other Toyota models. It reacts quickly to input data and, provides traffic information, changing your route so as to avoid obstacles. Traffic information is provided by SiriusXM traffic, which comes bundled with Sirius satellite radio. A 90-day free trial subscription is included in the app, with this app you will always be up-to-date with the latest sports, stock market and weather information. Our basic LE model is not equipped with this system.
Connecting electronic devices
You have one USB and one additional port located under the radio.
Power sources
The car features a 12-volt socket in the center stack and, another, inside the covered tray between the front seats.
Climate control options inside the cabin
The base Camry LE has the following systems: manually adjustable air conditioning, heated exterior mirrors, and an ambient temperature indicator. All of the equipment works well. If you want dual-zone climate control or heated seats, you should consider the upgraded options.
Storage compartments for small items in the cabin
At the front of the cabin, you'll find a large enclosed compartment in front of the gear lever, and another, even larger, closer to the back of the center console. Another compartment is underneath the adjustable armrest, which can be pulled forward and back without blocking the cupholders - impressive. Drivers, too, have a flip-down coin holder, to the left of the steering column. Rear passengers have access to a small open compartment at the back of the center console.
Cupholders
Front passengers have two cupholders in the center console. Rear passengers use the cupholders integrated in the folding center armrest.
Luggage compartment
The Camry car has a well-designed trunk, with functional height and depth. It is very easy to open. A traditional floor opening mechanism is used, and the trunk can also be opened with a button on the key fob key and a touch pad inside the cabin.
The trunk can hold 4 large suitcases in the upright position, also the luggage space can be increased by folding the backs of the rear seats. Carrying capacity of this vehicle is 410.5 kg. Trailer towing is not recommended.
Safety
Seat belts
The front seat belts are fitted with pretensioners and belt force limiters.
Airbags
The Camry boasts 10 airbags. Front seat passengers are protected by front, side and knee airbags, along with head curtain airbags. The baffles are designed to protect rear-seat passengers on the outside. Side airbags, for rear seat passengers, are also provided as standard.
A sensor system in the front seats deactivates the front and knee airbags if the system detects that the seats are not occupied, or are occupied by an infant in a child seat.
Headrests
All rear head restraints are integrated with the seat backs. The side headrests are high enough to keep most passengers safe. The center headrest is very low and does not provide adequate protection for an adult's head.
Collision Avoidance System
Optional features on the V6, XSE and XLE configurations include a collision warning system (with automatic brakes and radar cruise control); lane departure warning system; blind spot warning system and cross-traffic alert.
Riding with children
Three closely spaced child seats can be placed along the rear seat. Because of the integrated headrests, tall child seats will not fit well against the backs of the seats. Although some seats can be installed quite snugly. As for the installation of seats facing against the movement of the car - there may be difficulties with their installation. You'll find child seat anchors on the side seating areas, but they're hard to get to because they're hidden below the backs of the seats. However, you will see three easily accessible anchor straps secured to the trunk shelf.
