On the Road
Toyota’s beloved V6 is gone, the last one of its kind in the segment. That’s a pity, given that it offers upwards of 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Further, in the previous-generation model, power routed to the front or to all four wheels utilizing a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. Those days are gone…moreover, the take rate was low.
Fast forward to 2025, and the previous four- and six-cylinder engine choices are no where to be found. Well, nearly so. Notably, that four banger is now mated to an electronic continuously variable transmission and a hybrid battery system. This particular combination, the only one available, produces at most 232 horsepower. Indeed, that’s a 25-percent drop from the V6, but a modest net increase over the previous four.
Fuel Efficiency
Let’s cut to the chase – to continue to offer the Camry, Toyota needed to rethink its approach. Thus, the new model averages approximately 50 mpg to 25 mpg for the V6.
The doubling of fuel efficiency is astounding and should give everyone pause when considering the latest Camry’s comparison to past models. Historically, Toyota offered a Camry Hybrid for many years. However, they have now decided to expand the hybrid technology to all grades and simply drop the hybrid naming convention. Consequently, every Camry will be a hybrid starting this year.
To get to its current efficiencies, Toyota made some subtle changes. Instead of the standard 15.1-gallon gas tank, you get 13 gallons. It is a better fit with the hybrid pack underneath. It doesn’t hurt range either as drivers can travel up to 650 miles between fill ups. You’ll get maximum efficiency around town, so if you’re planning a road trip you may be pressed to go 600 miles. The sedan is also equipped with Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system, making it the most efficient one yet.
In any case, the fuel efficiency of the latest model is this sedan’s chief calling card. Toyota has been getting flak for its lack of full-electric models – one Toyota, one Lexus – but its strength is in hybrids. Nearly every Toyota sold offers a hybrid variant. Some models, such as the retiring Venza and the Sequoia SUV, are also hybrid-only.
Driving the Camry
Slip behind the wheel of this new sedan, ignite the ignition, and you’ll be greeted with silence. Only the dashboard indicates that you’re ready to go. Shift into drive and crawl forward, and only the electric motor supplies motivation. But once extra power is needed, the gas engine kicks in.
The greatest efficiencies are offered when cruise control is activated, an ideal setting for the open road. When entering the highway, the system goes full throttle. The engine does strain modestly and may do so more with a full cabin of people. Nevertheless, the Camry is no slacker as it delivers more than enough power for acceleration and passing.
We commend Toyota for providing sharp steering and a responsive suspension system. Our XSE model was sport tuned. This means it offers more engaging handling and secure footing, especially on turns. Our model benefitted from all-wheel drive. In this arrangement, however, the power routes electronically to spin the rear wheels. No center differential is required.
Planetary Gear System
The Toyota e-CVT is a sophisticated system that integrates an electric motor with a planetary gear system to enhance fuel efficiency and driving smoothness in hybrid vehicles. Unlike traditional CVTs, the e-CVT uses a planetary gear system consisting of a sun gear, planetary gears, and a ring gear, along with one or more electric motor/generators that can operate both as motors and generators. This setup allows for seamless transitions between different power sources.
In electric-only mode, the vehicle uses just the electric motor. In hybrid mode, it blends power from the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor. During regenerative braking, the electric motor converts kinetic energy into electrical energy to recharge the battery. In engine charging mode, the ICE runs efficiently to drive the wheels and charge the battery simultaneously. The e-CVT’s ability to balance and direct power from the ICE and electric motor through the planetary gear system results in a flexible, efficient, and smooth driving experience.
Competitive Set
The midsize sedan segment once ruled the market, but an onslaught of crossovers has shifted consumer preferences. Few manufacturers participate, with Ford and Dodge long gone and the Chevrolet Malibu slated to follow. Rumor has it that the Nissan Altima is not long for this world. Further, Subaru confirmed that the Legacy will not be offered after 2025. As for the Volkswagen Passat? This model has also disappeared.
The Camry’s chief competitor has always been the Honda Accord. The Accord continues to offer a standard gas model along with a hybrid. From Hyundai Motors you’ll find two vehicles. The first is the Hyundai Sonata, and that’s available as a hybrid. The second is the Kia K5, but unlike its Optima predecessor, no hybrid variant is offered.
Toyota Camry Recommendation
While the base model is anything but stripped, we believe the SE offers the best combination of amenities and value. The larger wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded upholstery are standout features of note. You’ll still pay extra for the touchscreen upgrade, but most people can do without all-wheel drive, keeping this model’s final price below $33,000.
Finally, switching the Camry to hybrid-only was a bold move on Toyota’s part. Families have long purchased the Camry and passed it down to their children, with 20-year models not uncommon. That said, we wonder if the hybrid system will remain as strong as its gas engines, especially when the odometer passes 300,000 miles, a very reasonable goal with just about any well-maintained Toyota.
