Those who thought the weak economy would knock the best-selling car in America from its decades-long perch were likely surprised to see Camry and Camry Hybrid lead Toyota car sales yet again in November, the most recently reported sales figures.
Toyota, like most other automakers, has been plagued by plummeting sales. In November the manufacturer reported passenger car sales dropped 31.1 percent from the previous November. Yet even in these tough times, the Camry and Camry Hybrid led passenger car sales for Toyota.
Perhaps that’s not surprising when you consider that since its 1983 debut, the Camry has earned a reputation for comfort, style and reliability. The introduction of the Camry Hybrid and an all-around style boost for all Camry models in 2007 added to the car’s appeal, without taking it over the top in looks or price.
» Engine: choice of 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder, aluminum alloy block with aluminum alloy head or 3.5-liter, 6-cylinder, aluminum alloy block with aluminum alloy head. Hybrid also available.
» Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed ECT-i automatic, 6-speed ECT-i automatic
» Mileage: (city/highway/combined MPG)
5M 21/31/25
5ECT-i 21/31/25
6ECT-i 19/28/22
» MSRP: Starting at $19,580
That’s not to say the Camry hasn’t hit some bumps. One recent example was in 2007, when consumers complained about power hesitation. Those concerns prompted engineers to issue a technical service bulletin to dealerships outlining a software modification that remedied the power, according to a report on Edmunds.com. Such quick action to ensure reliability is one reason Toyota dealers report many second- and third-generation Camry owners.
Doubters needs only take a test drive in a new-model Camry to confirm the great style, comfort and reliability standard on all models.
Overall, the Camry is just an easy car to drive, literally and figuratively. Its ride is smooth and powerful, easy in and out of traffic and tight spaces. Add to that the Camry’s reputation for reliability and minimal maintenance — not to mention quick action to resolve consumer concerns — and you can see why its American love story continues.
While some may quibble that Camry’s style is not as athletic as its competitors, it is muscular. Camry’s distinctive look, which sports 16-inch steel or aluminum wheels (Camry, LE, XLE and Hybrid models), a honeycomb grille, and distinctive halogen headlamps, clearly give it a distinguished style.
The bottom line is that Camry translates into excellent acceleration and braking plus smooth handling and a well-equipped, comfortable cabin. Toyota brags the Camry is designed with an eye to spice up the commute. I don’t get that vibe but in fairness I didn’t drive an SE. The standard Toyota I drove felt solid and confident, which is not a bad boast to make.
Plus the gas mileage is something to get excited about. The four-cylinder manual and automatic Camry models have city/highway fuel economy ratings of 21/31 MPG, and powerful V6 models have 19/28 MPG EPA-estimated ratings. The Camry Hybrid, which combines a four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric drive motor, returns an EPA-estimated 33 MPG city/34 MPG highway.
As you’d expect, the Camry has received top safety ratings and is packed with all types of extras for the audio and technology fan.
With an MSRP starting at $19,145, it’s no wonder Americans stay sweet on the Camry.
