2012 Camry Reviews

2012 Camry

The 2012 Camry is all-new. Rated at 22/33-mpg last year, the new Camry manages a 25/35-mpg rating. That’s identical highway mileage to the previous class-leader, the Hyundai Sonata, but represents a 3-mpg advantage in the city.

Helping SE models hit the mark is a beautiful interior, with the optional (but must-have) leather and ultra suede combo on the seats, plus a stitched leather dash top. A new suspension geometry is designed to improve handling, while also increase the car’s stability.

Perhaps the single largest factor in modernizing the Camry is the new Display Audio system that’s standard on all but the entry-level L and LE Hybrid models. This WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) seat is just one of many safety features on the Camry, including a “Smart Stop” brake override system, the expected stability control, traction control and tire pressure monitoring systems, plus 10 airbags. In addition, Toyota is also offering a Blind Spot Monitoring system.

The model we’ve yet to touch on is the Camry Hybrid, which easily represents the most significant improvement over its predecessor, and for good reason. The previous Camry Hybrid was first eclipsed by the Fusion Hybrid and then by the Sonata Hybrid, but this latest version shows Toyota’s expertise in blending gasoline and electric technology, delivering a 43/39-mpg fuel economy rating, with an average of 41-mpg. That change? A larger displacement engine. Using a 2.5-liter 4-cylidner, mated to Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system it not only gets those class-leading fuel economy numbers, but delivers solid acceleration with 200-hp on tap.

There’s a lot to like about the SE model, but if you’re looking for fuel economy without compromises, it’s easy to see that the Camry Hybrid could become the daily driver of choice for the average American car buyer. It’s no revolution, just a solid improvement on an already great car – although Toyota can at least lay claim to being a fuel economy leader. Plus, there’s that excellent hybrid model, which could be the deciding factor in helping the Camry hit the top sales goal for 10 straight years.

The 2012 Toyota Camry is fully redesigned. The 2012 Toyota Camry doesn't aim to find out, either. For one thing, the 2012 Toyota Camry offers improved versions of last year's engines: a respectably powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. There's also a Camry Hybrid, covered in a separate review.

Suspension improvements have been made to enliven the Camry's handling dynamics. The 2012 Toyota Camry will be offered in L, LE, SE and XLE trim levels. The Camry LE adds auto headlamps, remote keyless entry, steering-wheel-mounted audio and Bluetooth controls and the six-speaker Display Audio system featuring a 6.1-inch touch screen.

The SE includes a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, heated exterior mirrors, unique interior and exterior styling treatment, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, sport seats and the Display Audio system. SE V6 models get the upgraded Display Audio system that adds navigation, HD radio, satellite radio, voice recognition and Entune smartphone and Web integration.

XLE V6 models get a rearview camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery and heated driver and front passenger seats. A premium 10-speaker JBL audio system integrated with a 7-inch touch screen hard-drive-based navigation system is also optional on XLE V6 models.

The 2012 Toyota Camry is offered with a choice of two engines. Both engines drive the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. Toyota says the four-cylinder will return an estimated 35 highway mpg, while the V6 -- with nearly 100 more hp -- will achieve 30 mpg on the highway.

The 2012 Toyota Camry comes with a battery of standard safety features, including antilock brakes with brake assist, stability control, front- and rear-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, and knee airbags for driver and passenger, the latter new for 2012. Inside, the Camry's cabin feels slightly roomier. Among other amenities, top Camry trim levels get an eight-way power driver seat, while all Camry models now offer a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat.

We've only had the opportunity to briefly drive the new 2012 Toyota Camry.