2025 Toyota Camry Is Still the Sensible Choice #CanadaFinance

The XSE model picks up some unique hardware over lesser Camrys in an effort to deliver on its sportier looks. Toyota has installed stiffer springs and dampers, as well as a thicker rear anti-roll bar for improved stability and feedback. There is some harshness brought into the ride as a result, further exacerbated by the XSE’s 19-inch wheels.

The handling improvements don’t necessarily justify the sacrifice in comfort, given the lack of truly dynamic character from the rest of the car. Little information is relayed through the steering wheel, although weighting remains consistent as loads increase. The brakes were similarly uncommunicative and unable to inspire, owing mostly to a nonlinear effort curve. That’s not to say the car can’t comport itself down a twisty road—it’s just not a “sporty” sedan quite yet. A proper TRD model could alleviate those foibles in the future.

One of the most impressive parts about the updated Camry is its interior space. The cabin provides ample room for both front- and rear-seat passengers, even with my six-foot-three frame in the driver’s position. The trunk is impressively capacious, too, offering up to 15.1 cubic feet of capacity. Both the XLE and XSE receive leather trim, which helps to elevate the sense of quality. Material selection felt sufficient for the segment, although there are still lots of hard plastics within reach.

The good news is that there are also lots of traditional buttons, Toyota continuing to offer hard controls for important functions like the audio system, climate control, drive modes, and switchable safety features. The entire suite of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 comes as standard, including dynamic distance-keeping radar cruise control, road-sign detection, and automatic high beams.

The plusher trims also bring twin 12.3-inch screens as standard, backed by Toyota’s latest infotainment system. This proved to be straightforward and smartphone-like to use, and it has wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration if you prefer to go your own way. My test car’s optional nine-speaker JBL audio system also thumped hard when asked, although some midrange punch has been sacrificed for bass tones.

Barring groans from the CVT, the cabin was a quiet place to spend time. Standard acoustic glass in the XSE surely helped here, although there were still some rattles from the large sunroof cover and B-pillar plastic trim, distracting slightly from the general well-made feel.

There is a reason that the Toyota Camry is one of the few remaining stalwarts of the sedan segment. This latest version builds on the recipe proven by its predecessors, with improved efficiency and style. There are more dynamic offerings out there, but you would struggle to find a commuter with such a broad skillset—and it is hard to argue against the impressive efficiency of the new hybrid powertrain.

That said, the XSE trappings won’t be necessary for those in search of value. For 2025, the Camry lineup starts at $29,835, including destination, whereas the XSE starts at just over $36K with front-wheel drive. With the optional Premium Plus Package, 19-inch wheels, and the unique exterior hue, our AWD test car increased that to a weighty $45,771. If you can live with the smaller screens and cloth trim, the junior grades offer better value. That’s particularly true when you consider the choice of all-wheel drive isn’t limited by trim level and can be selected on all variants.

• Impressive hybrid efficiency.

• Spacious, well-finished interior.

• Improved Toyota infotainment.

Sometimes it’s the little things that really matter. In the case of the Camry XSE, the decision to opt for a red-hued leather interior did wonders for my perception of the car. Many passersby asked me if the Camry was a fast car, quickly followed by inquiries into the price. That sort of response is rare in a typical commuter. It’s a characterful addition to a genuinely well-rounded machine.

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