Athletic Style for Any Road: Camry Adds Hybrid Nightshade, New Colors for 2022

•New SE Hybrid Nightshade Edition

•Exclusive Two-Tone Calvary Blue with Black Roof for TRD Grade

•Ice Edge Exterior Color Now Available on LE, SE and XSE grades

•Standard Dual Zone Climate Control (except TRD grade)

•Heated Side Mirror Now Standard on LE & SE Grades

The 2022 Toyota Camry continues to take the midsize sedan and evolve it for the better. Whether it's giving adventures a confidence boost with AWD, enhancing daily commutes with the efficient and dynamic hybrid or the pulse raising TRD, there's a Camry fit for every lifestyle. With its most diverse lineup ever, Camry is on track to retain America's No. 1 Selling Passenger Car title for the 20th consecutive year.

Customers can take their style further in the new SE Hybrid Nightshade, featuring 18-inch black wheels, black shark fin antenna, window trim, badging, door handles and mirror caps. All Camry models for 2022 also get a dose of tech and luxury with a floating multimedia screen in 7-inch or 9-inch sizes, plus a herringbone seat pattern on the XLE grade. Distinctive front ends lend unique looks among the various Camry grades.

All told, the 2022 Camry offers 18 different choices in the midsize sedan segment today. Those choices include:

•Three V6 grades – XLE, XSE and TRD

•Five 4-cyl. FWD grades – LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade and XSE

•Five 4-cyl. AWD grades – LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade and XSE

•Five hybrid grades – LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade (new) and XSE

The wide array of choices plus Camry's alluring, coupe-inspired design and renowned Toyota quality and value are reasons why Camry maintains leadership in the midsize sedan category. Camry holds its status as America's favorite midsize sedan for 20 years running and is one of the longest-running nameplates in the auto industry.

Bold Looks Up Front

A bold look up front distinguishes the comfort-oriented LE and XLE grades from the sport-oriented SE and XSE for 2022. The front fascia for the Camry LE and XLE grades shows a more defined lower intake area. The gas version of the LE grade also features a 17-inch alloy wheel design, while the XLE features an 18-inch alloy wheel. The SE and XSE grades show off a bolder lower fascia shape featuring a honeycomb style grille and side vent inserts, plus side vent accents. On hybrid models, the Toyota Hybrid badging will be included on trunk lid only.

Accentuating the design, the 2022 Camry augments its exterior paint palette with previous TRD exclusive Ice Edge, replacing Galactic Aqua, and a new exclusive color for the Camry TRD, two-tone Cavalry Blue with Midnight Black Metallic roof. The XSE grades continue to offer the two-tone body and roof color combinations of Supersonic Red, Wind Chill Pearl or Celestial Silver Metallic paired with a Midnight Black Metallic roof and rear spoiler.

The performance-tuned Camry TRD, which debuted for 2020, keeps its exclusive, aero-enhanced design. The 2022 Camry TRD comes standard with Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, plus heated exterior mirrors. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert remain standalone options on LE, SE and SE Nightshade grades. XSE and XLE grades already have those features as standard.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+

Toyota is a pioneering force in the adoption of Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) ever since it made the advanced safety features standard across many of its model lineup for 2017, five years ahead of the voluntary commitment by many OEMs with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to make it standard on virtually all light vehicles. For 2022, the Camry comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) safety system.

TSS 2.5+ includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD). TSS 2.5+ capabilities' make it possible for the system to help detect not only the vehicle ahead but also a preceding bicyclist in daytime and even a preceding pedestrian in low-light conditions. TSS 2.5+ also enhances the PCS w/PD system with intersection support. At intersections, the system may detect an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian when performing a left-hand turn and may provide audio/visual alerts and automatic braking in certain conditions. Additional PCS functions include emergency steering assist, which is designed to stabilize the driver's emergency steering maneuvers within their lane while avoiding a preceding pedestrian, bicyclist or vehicle.

Camrys that come equipped with Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), which can activate the feature above 30 mph, have a system designed to perform vehicle-to-vehicle distance controls down to 0 mph and resume from a stop. DRCC also includes a new feature that allows for smoother overtaking of slower vehicles. If traveling behind a vehicle traveling slower than the preset speed, once the driver engages the turn signal with steering input, the system will provide an initial increase in acceleration in preparation for changing lanes; after changing lanes, the vehicle will continue acceleration until it reaches the preset driving speed.

Lane Departure Alert is designed to help notify the driver via audible alert if it senses the vehicle is leaving the lane without engaging a turn signal. When DRCC is set and engaged, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) is designed to assist the driver by providing a slight steering force to help center the vehicle in its lane using visible lane markers or a preceding vehicle.

Additional TSS 2.5+ features include Automatic High Beams, which detects preceding or oncoming vehicles and automatically switches between high beam and low beam headlights. Road Sign Assist (RSA), which is designed to recognize certain road sign information using a forward-facing camera and display them on the multi-information display (MID). With DRCC engaged and activated, RSA can also adjust speed up to the posted speed limit if driving slower or down to the posted speed limit if driving faster than posted.

Toyota's Rear Seat Reminder is standard on all 2022 Camrys. The feature notes whether a rear door was opened within 10 minutes of the vehicle being turned on, or at any time after the vehicle has been turned on, with a reminder message in the instrument cluster after the engine is turned off, accompanied by multitone chimes.

In addition to the TSS 2.5+ system, to help Camry drivers change lanes with confidence, Blind Spot Monitor is designed to help detect and warn you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the adjacent lanes. Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) can offer added peace of mind by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either side while backing out and alerting you with a visual and audible warning. These features come standard on TRD, XLE and XSE grades and are available on certain LE and SE grades.

Camry All-Wheel Drive is Smarter All-Wheel Drive

The Toyota-developed Dynamic Torque Control AWD system is available as a standalone option for the four-cylinder LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade and XSE grades. Notably, the Camry AWD is a North America-only model developed in the U.S. and assembled exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky. Camry AWD uses the high-efficiency 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine teamed with an eight-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission.

Dynamic Torque Control AWD provides effective traction for inclement and slippery weather while minimizing AWD's typical drag on fuel economy. The system can direct up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels, in response to acceleration from a start or slippage at the front wheels.

When AWD isn't needed, the electromagnetic controlled coupling on the rear drive axle can disengage the propeller shaft to prioritize fuel efficiency. The AWD is designed to re-engage in an instant when needed, and its operation is transparent to the driver and passengers.

The addition of AWD does not affect passenger space, trunk room, ride comfort, cabin quietness or vehicle agility. Inside, the car has the same rear seat hip point height as the Camry Hybrid.

The transformation to AWD adds just 165 lbs. (LE grade; other grade weights vary) over FWD versions. The suspension tuning, wheels and tires differentiating the Camry model grades carry over to the AWD versions. That means, for example, the Camry XSE grade features the same sport-tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels in both FWD and AWD versions.

An optional Cold-Weather Package adds heated seats, mirrors and steering wheel on the LE and SE; and heated steering wheel on the XLE and XSE, as heated seats and mirrors are already standard on those grades. All other standard and optional features are shared with the Camry FWD model grades. The Cold Weather Package is a standalone option for FWD and Hybrid grades as well.

Camry TRD: Track-Tuned, Road-Refined

Initially, the 'TRD' identifier for Toyota Racing Development was seen only on off-road toughened Toyota trucks and SUVs. Yet, TRD has been deeply involved with all facets of Toyota Motorsports for more than 40 years, with a trophy case full from victories in rallying, IMSA® GTO and GTP® road racing, NASCAR® and NHRA® Funny Car racing.

The sophisticated, high-strength TNGA-K platform that underpins the Camry was like an open invitation for TRD to rev up the sedan's performance. The result was the first-ever Camry TRD performance model for 2020, and this road-tamer continues for 2022 with first-class standard features, including Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The JBL Premium Audio system is an option on Camry TRD just as it is on other grades.

The Camry TRD is equipped exclusively with a direct-injected, 301-horsepower DOHC 3.5-liter V-6 teamed with the Direct-Shift eight-speed automatic transmission featuring sport mode and paddle shifters. A specially-tuned TRD cat-back dual exhaust system conveys a throatier idle and acceleration tone.

The TRD Look + Function

The aerodynamic body kit, which includes a front splitter, side aero skirts, trunk lid spoiler and rear diffuser, not only adds a track-ready look but also improves high speed vehicle stability. Camry TRD wears a gloss black front grille with a sport mesh insert and black exterior badging.

Distinctive red pinstriping, red painted brake calipers, red TRD badging and polished stainless steel TRD exhaust tips complete the road-hungry look. The 2022 Camry TRD is available in solid Midnight Black Metallic or in two-tone schemes featuring new Cavalry Blue or Wind Chill Pearl with a Midnight Black Metallic roof.

In the cabin, the TRD treatment outfits the Camry with Black Sport SofTex®-trimmed front seats with white accents and red-stitched TRD embroidered headrests. The leather-wrapped steering wheel also has red stitching, and even the seatbelts are red. A shift knob with an embossed TRD logo, along with unique TRD floor and trunk mats, and a unique TRD meter with red-illuminated accents and multi-information display (MID) start-up animation complete the cabin upgrades.

TRD Handling Thrills

TRD engineers developed this special Camry's dynamic characteristics through extensive testing at Toyota Arizona Proving Ground, TMC Higashi-Fuji Proving Ground (Japan) and MotorSport Ranch (Texas). Chassis enhancements abound, including thicker underbody braces that increase torsional rigidity.

The TRD-tuned suspension lowers Camry by 0.6 inches for a reduced center of gravity and more aggressive stance. Stiffer coil springs and sway bars increase roll stiffness by 44% in the front and 67% in the rear. A unique set of TRD shock absorbers, 19 x 8.5-inch matte-black alloy wheels and optional Bridgestone Potenza 235/40R19 summer tires complete a chassis package that improves body control, handling agility and steering precision.

The Camry TRD's front brakes are larger with 12.9-inch diameter rotors and dual-piston calipers, compared to 12.0-inch rotors and single piston calipers on the Camry XSE grade. Brake performance is tuned to provide more direct feedback.

Foundation for Agility and Ride Comfort

Extensive use of high-tensile-strength steel in the TNGA-K platform, along with innovative fastening methods including laser screw welding and advanced adhesives, give Camry its rock-solid feeling on the road. Optimally tuned MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension endow the Camry with a ride-handling balance befitting luxury vehicles. (SE and XSE grades have sport-tuned springs and shocks.)

Camry has long been renowned for quietness in its class, and the current-generation model improved on that by incorporating noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) countermeasures previously found exclusively on luxury models. Extensive sound absorbing insulation includes foam or vibration-dampening materials throughout the vehicle, along with a thicker dash silencer mat across the entire firewall section. A special vibration-damping coating is applied over a wider area of the underfloor, and noise-proofing material encompasses more surface area under the headliner.

Striking Yet Elegant Cabin

The Camry relays information to the driver via three available displays. For 2022, a floating 7- or 9-inch central touch-screen display, like that of the latest-generation Toyota RAV4, combines audio and navigation. Customizable features and smart phone-like touch screen icons ensure familiar and convenient operation.

For even greater functionality, Camry also offers an available 7-inch multi-information display within the instrument cluster. Available on XLE and XSE, a 10-inch color Head-Up Display (HUD) projects vital information, including speed and turn-by-turn navigation directions, onto the lower portion of the windshield.

The Camry's interior melds functionality, elegant styling and impeccable craftsmanship. The dash design gives the driver a sporty cockpit-type feel while treating both the driver and the front passenger to expansive outward visibility. A sweeping character line flows down from the instrument cluster and bisects the center console waterfall.

Surfaces throughout the cabin employ soft-touch premium materials. Interior trim for 2022 in all grades gives a sophisticated, higher-tech look with linear dark, wood inlay or patterned metal depending on the model grade.

Long-distance seat comfort, a Camry hallmark, has been combined with ratcheted seat design for 2022. Exquisite stitching on the front- and rear-seat surfaces, one example of the high level of craftsmanship, is found throughout the vehicle. The XLE grade features a luxurious looking textured herringbone seat pattern. Ventilated front seats are available on the XLE and XSE.

Camry's cabin comfort just keeps going for 2022. The gas grades with 4-cylinder engines now offer standard automatic dual zone climate control, which still come standard on the XLE and XSE grade. The LE, SE, XLE and XSE Hybrid grade has standard dual zone automatic climate control with air filter, electric compressor, humidity sensor and rear-seat vents. Rear seat vents come standard on the XLE and XSE Hybrid grades, and are available as a package upgrade on the LE and SE.

Interior color choices, depending on exterior color, include Ash, Macadamia or Black. The sport-oriented XSE grade also offers an exclusive Cockpit Red interior for a touch of exotic sports car flavor.

High Power, High Efficiency, Low Cost of Operation

The 2022 Camry offers a choice of three powertrains: 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder, 3.5-liter V-6 and next-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS II). The Dynamic Force 2.5-liter engine is a strong but smooth operator, yielding an impressive 203 hp at 6,600 rpm and 184 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,000 rpm (206 hp and 186 lb.-ft. for XSE grade, which uses a dual-outlet exhaust). Most AWD grades have 202 hp, while the Camry XSE AWD grade has 205 hp with dual exhaust.

The Camry's four-cylinder engine uses a very high compression ratio (13:1) and Toyota's innovative D-4S fuel injection, which employs both direct injection and additional port injectors. The engine is chock-full of Toyota's most advanced technologies, including Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing intelligent system by Electric motor) and laser-clad valve seats. A variable cooling system, variable oil pump and a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system all contribute to the engine's high thermal efficiency and outstanding fuel economy.

Genuine V-6 Performance at a High Level

The 2022 Toyota Camry is one of the few midsize sedans to still offer a V-6 engine, and this one is a gem. The 24-valve, DOHC 3.5-liter engine is equipped with the D-4S direct injection system, along with a specially-developed VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) variable valve timing system for the intake, with VVT-i on the exhaust. The VVT-iW system can switch the engine to the Atkinson cycle, which reduces pumping losses by delayed closing of the intake valves. The bottom line: it goes fast but sips gas.

Output is outstanding, with 301 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 267 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 rpm.

Direct Shift 8-speed Automatic

In all Camry gas grades, both the 2.5-liter engine and the 3.5-liter V-6 are teamed with the Direct Shift eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers satisfyingly crisp-yet-smooth, quick-shifting to deliver an exemplary blend of performance and refinement. Close mid-range ratios improve passing performance, while the wide range of torque converter lock-up yields for a more direct driving feel while contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency. Control logic optimizes precise matching of engine torque on downshifts for smoother transitions.

Toyota Hybrid System

The Camry Hybrid powertrain is the most efficient and powerful offered since the Hybrid debuted for 2007. The super-efficient Toyota Hybrid System (THS II) combines the output of the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine and an electric motor (MG1), while using that motor and a second motor (MG2) for hybrid battery charging. In the Hybrid, the gas engine employs an even higher 14:1 compression ratio and is tuned to produce 176 hp and 163 lb.-ft. of torque. Paired with the 118 hp electric motor, the total Hybrid system net output is 208 hp.

The hybrid system, however, gives the Camry Hybrid performance similar to the four-cylinder gas version. Sequential Shiftmatic technology allows the driver to 'shift' the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). It mimics a quick-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission via paddle shifters (on SE and XSE grades) or with the console-mounted shift lever.

The Lithium-ion (Li-ion) hybrid battery pack is installed beneath the rear seat and does not reduce passenger room or trunk capacity. The battery's position also contributes to a lower center of gravity. Along with the traditional Camry Hybrid NORMAL, ECO and EV drive system modes, a SPORT mode allows for an increase in power from the hybrid system for improved acceleration response relative to throttle pedal input.

The clever Auto Glide Control (AGC) feature helps to enhance fuel efficiency by calculating efficient coasting logic. AGC can be activated only when the vehicle is being operated in the ECO drive mode. When activated, AGC limits the loss of vehicle speed through engine braking, acting more like a neutral gear to allow longer coasting. An AGC indicator light illuminates on the multi-information display when AGC is in operation to alert the driver of reduced engine braking.

Toyota Audio

The base Toyota Audio system for 2022 features the dramatic looking and easy-to-use 7-in. floating touch screen display. The system features Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay® and Amazon Alexa® compatibility. The full-featured system includes AM/FM, SiriusXM® with 3-month All-Access trial, Siri® Eyes Free, hands-free phone capability, plus advanced voice recognition and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology.

Higher grades have Toyota Audio Plus with a 9-in. floating touch screen display. All audio systems have Connected Services trials, which include Safety Connect (1-year trial). Most grades also add Service Connect (10-year trial) and Remote Connect (1-year trial). In addition, WiFi Connect (3-month up to 2GB trial), allows up to five mobile devices to connect using 4G LTE.

Audio Plus is also offered with a JBL® 800-watt, 9-speaker premium audio, which includes a subwoofer. The JBL system is also part of the top-of-line available Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation, which provides over-the-air updates and includes a 3-year trial.

Remote Connect provides remote start and door unlock capability, vehicle status notifications, a guest driver monitor and vehicle finder (1-year trial). Available Service Connect can provide up-to-date vehicle information on fuel level, maintenance alerts and more.

Star Safety

All 2022 Camry models have 10 standard airbags and Toyota's Star Safety System, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology. All Camrys also come equipped with a standard backup camera.

Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare

Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. On the Camry Hybrid grades, all HV components are covered under the Hybrid System Warranty for 8 years/100,000 miles. Additionally, the hybrid battery warranty is 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first. The Camry also comes standard with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.

by Toyota

A mid-size vehicle, the Toyota Camry was formerly a compact car that was manufactured by Toyota since 1980. The Toyota Camry was released with a wheelbase of 102.4 inches, a whole six inches longer than the Accord. The Camry featured much more legroom for backseat passengers. The Camry came with Camry's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine at 92 horsepower. Available transmissions were a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

In January of 1980, Toyota originally launched the Toyota Celica Camry for the Japanese home market. Basically a second-generation Toyota Carina, this new Celica Camry featured updated body styling and a front end that was very similar to a 1978 Toyota Celica XX; known as the Celica Supra in export markets. Based on the rear-wheel drive Celica, this new model was powered by either a 1.6 liter 12T-U engine that produced 88 hp and 94 lb-ft of torque, or a 1.8 liter 13T-U engine that produced 94 hp and 108 lb-ft of torque. Near the end of its model life cycle, Toyota debuted a sports version of the Celica Camry that was equipped with the 16-valve double overhead camshaft 2.0 liter engine from the Celica that produced 96 hp. Today, this is the most enviable and sought after versions of the Celica Camry.

The Celica Camry shared the 98.4 wheelbase of the Celica, Corona and the Carina, but it was longer than the Carina, and shorter than both the Corona and the Celica. Over 100,000 models were constructed during it model cycle and sold in Japan. This model was also exported to a huge number of markets under the Carina's name and also replaced the second-generation Carina in those markets.

The Toyota Camry has been the best-selling vehicle for nine of the last ten years, beginning in 1997, and the only exception being 2001. The Toyota Camry sells particularly well in Cambodia, where a huge majority of cars sold are Camry's. The Camry also sells very well in Canada, Australia and a variety of Asian markets. Unfortunately, the Toyota Camry has not sold well in Europe, or its home market Japan.

The Camry became an independent model line in 1982 and was sold as a compact four-door sedan and the five-door hatchback. At this time, the Camry was positioned above the Carina and Corona, and there were limited exports, predominantly to right-hand-drive markets. In the early 1980's the trend was leaning towards the box-shaped vehicle, and in this aspect, the first generation Camry fit in quite well. The vehicle size and available options were characteristic of Japanese-designed vehicles of the time.

The Camry was the most attractive of the offered vehicles, but it was considered to very functional and came with a lot of outward visibility with its slim roof pillars and lots of glass area. Much like the Accord, the Camry was available in a few trim levels, the base model DX and the more luxurious LE model. The Camry was not offered in two-door form, unlike the Accord, though the four-door Camry could be purchased in either hatchback or sedan body styles.

The Camry was rated with strong attributes by the loving public, with fine build quality, comfortable and solid reliability and with a very ‘peppy performance'. For the first full year of production, the Toyota Camry was Toyota's new midsize family car. The following year the only changes for the lineup were a slight variety in colors, along with addition of flush-mounted headlights and an increase in the engine's output up to 95 horsepower.

The Toyota Camry was available in North America with a 92 hp 2.0 liter engine, or a 74 hp 2.0 liter 2C-TLC turbo-diesel engine. The Toyota Camry was a front-wheel drive vehicle that was built on an all-new platform, whereas the Celica Camry was rear-wheel drive. Only a gas-fueled hatchback model was sold in Australia, while the U.K. and most of Continental Europe received the sedan and hatchback versions.

A brand new and improved Accord was introduced in 1986, and though unfortunately the Camry couldn't compete, but the following year it would be back on strong with a whole new redesign. Dropping the hatchback body style, the second generation Toyota Camry lineup now included a station wagon. A all-new all-wheel drive system that was dubbed All-Trac was introduced in 1988 and featured a 2.5 liter, 160 hp V6 engine that were added as options for the first time. A GT model that used the older 3S-GE engine found on the Celica was debuted in Japan. This model had a factory strut brace that was similar to an AE92 Corolla and also ran on the V6 model's 15 inch alloy wheels. The GT model also featured an electronic instrument cluster.

The second generation of the Toyota Camry was unveiled in 1987 with a bang! Intent on beating the Honda Accord, the Toyota Camry was introduced with numerous improvements. A much more modern, 16-valve, twin-cam engine design was introduced that resulted in an additional 20 more horsepower, though the four-cylinder engine's displacement remained at 2.0 liters. This was 17 more horsepower than the Honda Accord.

In Altona, Victoria, Australia, Toyota Australia began producing second generation Camry's; this was in fact the first Camry ever made outside of Japan. The base model featured a 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine that was rated at 86 hp. Meanwhile a 2.0 liter four-cylinder was available on all other models and was rated at 116 hp. A 2.5 liter V6 engine was introduced in 1988. This V6 sat at the top of the lineup and ended up being the only model imported from Japan. This version was very expensive and was sold in only small numbers. The 1.8 liter engine was deleted in 1989 and was replaced with a carbureted 2.0 liter engine that was capable of producing 110 hp.

The second generation Camry was now much quieter and had a significant decrease in vibration. The optional transmission now featured imperceptible gear changes. The Camry was customized for customers that wanted a smooth and quiet vehicle, while the Accord was aimed more at drivers who wanted interaction and feedback from their vehicle.

A sleeker new body was introduced for this generation, though it was still conservative, the Camry was much more upscale than the previous generation. For this year a wagon was introduced, while the five-door hatchback was dropped as American's preferred the four door model. Slim roof pillars were also once again introduced to minimize blind spots. For the 1987 model year, three trim levels were made available, base, 'value-equipped' DX, and the luxurious and well appointed luxurious LE.

For 1998 the Camry was introduced with a V6 option and the option of all-wheel drive. Producing 153 horsepower, the 2.5-liter V6 showcased double-overhead cams with four valves per cylinder. Stronger acceleration along with a smooth and quiet operation were the benefits from this refined powerplant. 'All-Trac'; the AWD system was available, but only with manual transmission and provided additional grip for those who drove in a slippery zone area, such as the Northeast and the Midwest.

The Camry was very well received in the U.S. and the decision was made by Toyota to begin production of the vehicle in the states. The first American-made Camry was chosen to be produced in Georgetown, Kentucky, and the model began rolling off the line in 1998. Consumers could now purchase a Japanese vehicle without feeling the guilt of taking away work from the Americans. The Toyota Manufacturing plant in Kentucky was the first wholly-owned U.S. Toyota plant. At this time, three trim levels of the second generation of Camry's were produced, the base model, the DX, and the LE.

The upscale Lexus ES 250 was repackaged with the 2.5 liter engine and Camry chassis. Basically, the Lexus ES 250 was the Japanese-market Camry hardtop. Anti-lock brakes became optional on the V6, LE, and station wagon models in 1991. In the U.S. these new second generation models were very popular.

Remaining basically unchanged for the next two years, in 1989 the Camry All-Trac could be purchased with the automatic gearbox. The Camry won great acclaim for generating high levels of reliability and build quality, and sales continued to climb higher.

The Toyota Camry became the Toyota's ‘jewel of a family car' and became the fifth best-selling vehicle in America as production was increased at the Kentucky plant. In 1991 antilock brakes became an optional feature on just a few of the Camry models. In this same year a knock sensor on the V6 was also added to ensure smoother operation.

In 1992 the Toyota Camry was introduced larger in every dimension. Nearly 6 inches longer in length, the Camry was also now 2 inches wider and both the height and wheelbase were an entire inch larger than before. Much more aesthetic to the eye, the all-new Camry featured much more room for passengers. The 1992 Camry featured a much smoother engine, more sound insulation and car that featured much less noise than vehicles that cost much more than the Toyota Camry. The 1992 Camry was also the model for the 1992 Lexus ES 300.

The all-new larger Camry now featured a much larger engine and the four-cylinder engine now displaced 2.2 liters and now displaced 130 horsepower. Now reaching 185 horsepower, the V6 jumped up to 3.0 liters which launched the Camry from 0-60mph in barely under 8 seconds.

In this same year the DX, LE, XLE and SE joined the Toyota Camry's lineup. The SE featured sport seats, a rear spoiler, door handle, mirror trim and a blacked-out window. This same model also featured performance suspension, a faster steering ratio, larger tires on special alloy wheels and a numerically higher final drive ratio.

Later on during the 1992 model year, a wagon rejoined the Camry lineup, and was roomy enough to allow for a third-seat option. The station was also offered in LE and DX trim levels.

In July of 1990, the third-generation SV30 Camry debuted exclusively to the Japanese market. In Japan, the Toyota Scepter was a widened version of this same model, and featured a very unique front and rear-end styling, with the side doors and other various sheet metal and mechanical components that were interchangeable between the two cars. The Scepter was known as the Camry SXV10 in other markets outside of Japan.

In July of 1992, an updated model was introduced. This new model featured a larger grille and an updated AC unit. The GT package was replaced with the ZX touring package.

For 1993 the Camry was refined slightly, and now featured improved gear shifting quality of manual transmission/four cylinder vehicles. For this same year, a new variety of colors were also introduced along with DX model that featured color-keyed body-side moldings. By 1993 the Kentucky plant now produced 75% of all Camry sedans sold in the U.S. and 100% of all Camry wagons, sold worldwide.

The '94 Camry received a few major innovations as it entered into its third year of its third-generation of design. The Camry was introduced in a popular two-door version to combat Honda's Accord Coupe for this year. The Camry also featured a passenger airbag to encourage additional safety. Now featuring 188 horsepower, the 1994 V6 was completely redesigned and showcased more power and a much smoother operation.

The SV40 Camry was introduced in July of 1994 and was exclusive for the Japanese market. The SV40 used a 1.8 liter, a 2.0 liter, and a 2.2 liter turbodiesel. The 2.0 liter model was only version first available in all-wheel drive, though later the 2.2 liter turbo-diesel was made available for this system.

The following year the SV40 was updated with anti-lock brakes and dual air bags that were now standard equipment.

For the following year, the Camry received a slight update that included a new grille, taillight and headlights that made the model seem much more upscale. The LE trim was now the only choice for the Camry wagon as the DX wagon was dropped. ABS was offered as a standard option on the XLE, and was optional on other trim levels. The 1995 Camry met the 1997 Government side-impact crash standards.

The 1996 Camry was unveiled for its Fifth, and final year of the generation, with only slight updates from the year before. Leather seats became optional on the LE, and a new seat fabric was introduced on the interior of the DX while the LE Wagon now introduced a power seat option. The fifth generation continued as a sedan and station wagon; which was called the Camry Gracia in Japan and wasn't sold in the U.S.

For the following year the Toyota Camry was completely redesigned with a new body style that replaced the curves of the generation before for sharp angles on a wedge-like profile. Both the station wagon and the two-door version were deleted. The width of the '97 Camry was also increased slightly and a 2-inch stretch was added in wheelbase which now provided legroom for back-seat passengers. The sporty SE was deleted from the lineup, while 3 lineups were now introduced, the base CE, the LE, and the very loaded XLE.

Producing 133 horsepower, the 2.2-linter inline four was a much more powerful engine while the V6 now featured 194 horsepower. LE and XLE Camry models had automatic transmission as standard and the four-cylinder CE came with a choice of automatic or five-speed manual. The only Camry equipped with a manual gearbox, the CE V6 was able to reach 0-60mph in less than 8 seconds. For this year not much changed with the suspension except for a slight improvement in handling and ride.

In this same year, ABS became standard on all Camry's except for the four-cylinder CE model. Antilock brakes were now more readily available, and the new bumpers could now withstand a 5-mph impact along with the option of traction control for V6 LE and XLE models. For this year, the Camry was the best-selling car in the U.S. The Japanese Scepter was deleted while the Japanese Camry models adopted the 1795 mm wide platform.

For the 1998 model year, side-impact airbags were offered as an option for all models. The V6 already featured the inline four, and for this year earned LEV name. An engine immobilizer was also added and was now improved and featured with a new anti-theft system. Once again, the Toyota Camry became the most popular vehicle in America.

For the following year, the Camry Solara coupe was introduced into the lineup. The Solara featured a very attractive swoopy roofline, a unique nose and tail and heavily creased sides. The Solara was built on the same platform as the sedan, but delivered a sportier feel due to a tightened suspension along with recalibrated, firmer steering. V6 models now also offered a optional Sport package that featured 16-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and a stiffer suspension. By 2000 a Solara convertible form was introduced.

The Camry SE was dropped in the U.S. while the base model Solara was renamed the CE for the 1997 model year. Carryovers from the previous generation, the LE and the XLE were available with either the 2.2 L I4 or the 3.0 L V6 engine except for the Solara SLE, which was only available with the V6. The 2001 model year ushered in the LE-based Collector Edition.

For the Camry, power was pumped p to 133 hp SAE for the 5S-FE 2.2 L I4 and 194 hp SEA for the 1MZ-FE V6. CE trim level, LE V6 and any Solara models were the only ones to feature manual transmissions.

Identical to the export version of the Toyota Camry, the Daihatsu Altis was the first Camry to be sold for the General Export market, and was offered as 2.2 GLX and 3.0 V6 Grande. In 1997 a more upscale version of the Camry Gracia wagon was marketed in Japan as the Mark II Qualis. This model was available in 3.0G version with 1MZ-FE V6 engine, though it was not available in JDM Camry's.

This newest coupe was offered in SE trim with the option of either the four-cylinder or V6, while the SLE, which was encased in leather, came with either engine along with the option of other manual or automatic transmission. The SLE was pimped out much like an XLE sedan, while the SE featured a level of equipment much like an LE sedan.

LE and XLE Camry's received daytime running lights as a standard feature in 1999, while the CE also received it if it came with optional antilock brakes. Other updates included upgraded sound systems with both CD and cassette players, along with a new variety of color options.

For 2000, Toyota chose to spice p the four-year-old Camry sedan body style with fresh front and rear ends. New enlarged taillights were featured on the tail, while a chrome outline for the grille added flair to the nose. The exterior was also even more enhanced with revised side moldings along with new wheel cover and wheel designs. On the inside of the Toyota Camry, a newly standard stereo with cassette and CD players for all models was the biggest update. Faux wood trim also became standard on the XLE.

In 2001 the fourth-generation Camry was debuted and showcased a unique 'Gallery Series' edition. This edition featured two-tone treatments for the paint and interior along with chrome accents on the wheel covers, the exhaust tip and vent surrounds. This LE series also featured a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift.

Introduced without the station wagon for the first time, the Toyota Camry was released in September 2001 and as a larger sedan. The Camry wagon was replaced by the Toyota Sienna mini-van and the Highlander SUV, both vehicles that utilized the Camry's platform. A technique that had been adopted by compact vehicles, the front end of the car was short, which left a great deal of length to the cabin. An extremely tall vehicle, this sixth generation of the Toyota Camry was 2.5 inches taller and had a 2 inch longer wheelbase than the previous model.

For the 2002 model year, Toyota introduced an all-new Camry that featured an even more substantial and more aerodynamic than earlier models. This newest generation was considered to be even more upscale and elegant that its forbearers. The boot was also increased by 2.6 cubic feet which featured an end result of 16.7 cubic feet. The base CE model was dropped, while the SE sport model was reintroduced to the lineup.

Rather than complicate the design procedure with added trim levels to jazz up buyer interest, Toyota kept it simple by offering only a few versions to suit buyers' needs. The base CE was dropped as Toyota felt the lack of interest from consumers in a vehicle that featured manual windows and no air conditioning. Now there were only three Camry models to pick from, the LE, the sporty SE and the XLE.

For 2002 the option level lay once again in either four or six-cylinder engine power. The V6 lost some horsepower to qualify for ULEV status and to lower emissions, but it was still stellar. The new inline four engine featured 157 horsepower and at 2.4 liters; 162 lb-ft of torque.

The Solara stayed on the sixth generation chassis though it only received minor styling updates to the front and rear ends. The Solara did receive the same 2.4L 2AZ-FE VVT-I I4 engine that was available on the Camry.

The 2002 to 2006 Camry was available in five different trims in Australia and New Zealand; the Altise, Ateva, Sportivo, Grande and Azura. These models were significantly different from other Camry models worldwide, and featured around 77% locally developed components that would sit both Australian and New Zealand roads and driving conditions.

For 2003 the Toyota Camry remained virtually unchanged except for the addition of newly available power-adjustable pedals. The all new 2004 Camry SE featured a 3.3-liter V6 that boosted hp up to 225 and torque to 220 lb-ft. The LE and XLE trim's 3.0-liter V6 output was also upgraded to 210 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque. A new Limited Edition trim was sold this model year and featured an exclusive Crystal White color, a very unique grille design and foglights that were standard.

For 2005 a new entry-level standard model was added to the lineup. All Camry models received updated styling, new standard anti-lock brakes, steering wheel audio controls, Optitron gauges and upgraded seat fabrics. New standard leather upholstery was also added to the XLE V6. Also added to the 2005 model was a rear center head restraint, a storage bin in the door, standard leather seating on V6-powered XLE's and Optitron gauges. A new base trim level was also offered for 2005 and was also priced lower than the Camry LE. Both the V6 and I4 engines were now available on a 5-speed automatic transmission while the I4 engine received the new transmission for the '05 model year.

Introduced in 2003 as a 2004 model, the second generation Camry Solara featured all new unique styling in comparison from the Camry. The Solara now took its styling cues from the Lexus SC430. Though the 2.4 L VVT-i engine was still available, an all new 2.2 L VVT-i V6 was available. The same 5-speed automatic transmission was placed in the Solara that was in the sedan. A brand new SE Sport was now offered in addition to the SE and SLE trims. The SLE trim could now be had with the four-cylinder engine, unlike the first generation Solara. In the Japanese market, the Daihatsu continued with its twin Altis model.

The fifth generation Toyota Camry was introduced in the Philippines with 2.0 and 2.4 liter engines with four-speed automatics and no manual option. This was different from the U.S. version and featured a different front end design along with new inner taillight garnishes.

For the following year, not many changes were made except for the addition of a navigation system to the SE V6's options list. New standardized horsepower testing procedure lowered power ratings for this year, though actual output didn't change much.

In March of 2006, the seventh generation of the Camry went on sale. The Toyota Camry was completely redesigned with radically updated styling. The smooth body of the previous generation was replaced with a more angular and distinctive form. The interior of the Camry was also updated to feature a more eye-catching appearance with new teal lighting. Additional passenger space and new luxury-oriented features were also added to the '07 model.

This new generation now had a 56 mm longer wheelbase, though the overall length remained the same. This version was introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto show, right alongside the new hybrid version. This version was sold in some countries in Asia and the Middle East. In the U.S., the primary market for the Toyota Camry, the sales were significantly increased in the year following its release. The quarterly sales totally 46,630 units sold for the second quarter of the U.S. '07 model year for the Toyota Camry.

For 2007 the four trim levels of the Toyota Camry offered were the base CE, the LE, the sporty SE and the ultra-luxurious XLE. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder remained basically unchanged while producing 158 hp and 161 lb-ft of torque. The optional 3.5-liter V6 engine featured 28 mpg on the highway and produced an amazing 268 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices for the four-cylinder offered a five-speed automatic or a five-speed manual for transmission choices, while the V6 engine featured its power with a six-speed automatic.

This was the first generation in which the Camry has been offered as a gasoline/electric hybrid. The Hybrid used Toyota's second generation Hybrid Synergy Drive and also contained a 4-cylinder engine in conjunction with a 40 HP electric motor. Originally built solely in Japan, Camry Hybrids were shifted to Toyota's Georgetown, Kentucky plant almost completed. This plant is estimated to produce nearly 45,000 units per year.

The 2007 Toyota Camry and the Camry Hybrid both received a five-star safety rating for frontal crashes for both driver and passenger by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For rollovers, the Camry also received a four-star safety rating, though the Hybrid was not. The seventh generation Camry received a four-star safety rating due to Australasian New Car Assessment Program testing.

The base model deleted its CE designation for 2008, and no changes so far have been made for the 2009 model.

by Jessican Donaldson