The Toyota Camry is one of the best-selling cars, and with it comes many used models for you. We’ll look at features and specs to see which is the best year for a used Toyota Camry to ensure you get the best one for you.
Key Takeaways
- We’ll look at features and specs to see which is the best year for a used Toyota Camry to ensure you get the best one for you. If you’re wanting something special, then you can look for the 2007 Special Edition Camry hybrid. It comes with unique colors, and was limited to 3,000.
- If you’re a manual driver, then you want a model before 2012, as the ones after do not include one.
- An eighth-generation hybrid model is the best one as it offers more interior room, and better range.
Fifth Generation (2001-2006)
Starting with a more recent generation that most drivers will be familiar with. This generation came with LE, SE, and XLE trims. While it was made in the US, some models were also made in Japan.
The base LE trim came with a 2.4L I4 engine that was paired with a manual or automatic transmission. The sportier SE model came with either a 3.0L or a 3.3L V6. This also came with either manual or automatic transmission, even offering an upgraded five-speed automatic.
In 2004, the 3.0L was dropped, giving you the more powerful 3.3L as the standard engine for the SE trim. 2005 saw updates for the entire model. This came with a new chime grille, while the SE came with a blackout grille. The four-speed automatic was dropped in favor of the five-speed automatic.
Sixth Generation (2007-2011)
This generation brought new engines that gave the vehicle more power. The standard engine is the 2.4L four-cylinder engine, but if you prefer a V6, then you can look for the 3.5L. The 3.5L engine was standard on the CE trim, while it was an option on all other trims. This also marked the first time that a hybrid Camry hit the roads.
To add better safety measures, this model came with dual frontal airbags, side torso airbags, side curtain airbags, and even a driver’s knee airbag.
Much like the 5th gen, this one also comes with the SE trim. This time, it comes with a firmer suspension and 17-inch wheels that give a more sporty look.
If you want the best, then you’ll need the XLE trim. This comes with a six-CD JBL sound system with Bluetooth that lets you enjoy media in ways that you prefer. This trim also came with a sunroof, as well as dual-zone automatic climate controls. Later in the generation, the backup camera became an option for the SE and XLE trims. Also coming with a new 2.5 I4 engine.
To commemorate 50 years of Toyota in the US, the special edition 2007 Camry Hybrid was introduced. Only 3,000 units were available, making this very special. It came with unique wheels, badging, and an exclusive Blizzard Pearl color.
Seventh Generation (2012-2017)
This year marks the first time a manual transmission wasn’t included across the lineup; instead, a six-speed automatic transmission was the main one, with the SE coming with paddle shifters. The SE trim also came with a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a weather-wrapped steering wheel.
In 2014, the “Big Minor Change” hit the Camry. This restyled most of the exterior panels, leaving the roof the only thing that wasn’t changed. The interior also came with a more premium look after this. Coming with better materials and better amenities. To help make the drives more bearable, the window and door seals were improved. This helped cut back on road noise.
Eighth Generation (2018-2024)
This model came with a ton of trim options for you to pick from. These are the L, LE, SE, XLE, and XSE. The XLE and XSE are available with a V6 engine, while the LE, SE, and XLE are available as hybrids.
When 2020 came around, so did a new trim. This is the TRD trim. Based on the SE trim, it came with a V6, as well as a sportier suspension, sports exhaust, body kit, trunk spoiler, and red seat belts.
This generation’s hybrid was a bit different, thanks to the battery pack being moved from the trunk. It now sits below the rear seats, giving you better cargo room. The LE trim came with a 1.0 kWh battery pack that came with an EPA estimated 52 combined MPG. The 1.6 kWh battery pack has an EPA estimated combined 46 MPG.
When the 2021 models hit the market, it dropped the L trim and added the XSE to the hybrid lineup. It also added both 7- 9-inch multimedia displays depending on trims. It was also one of the first Toyotas to debut the new Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+.
Ninth Generation (2025- Present)
Cutting back on trim levels, this is the first time that the Camry has an all hybrid lineup. It comes in LE, SE, XLE, and XSE trims. This generation also brought bigger screens, with the LE and SE trims coming with a 8-inch screen. The XLE, and XSE trims came with a 12.3-inch screen.
Being so early into this generation, it’s hard to find a used model, but they’re out there. Come on down to Car2Sell here in Hillside to check out our inventory of Toyota Camry cars!