Let's cut the chatter and say it up front: the Japanese automaker kills all other drivetrain options (V6, TRD, etc.) in favor of exclusively selling the latest Camry with the 5th-gen Toyota Hybrid System. So, take it or leave it; that's how the XV80 ninth global generation rolls.
It was developed and designed in America to try and show that passenger cars, in general, and mid-size four-door sedans, in particular, are not dead or on life support just yet. It is also manufactured in the US and aims to keep its title of best-selling sedan with more power, striking good looks, feature-packed convenience, and capable handling.
Toyota uses for the first time in a sedan the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5) – a 2.5-liter inline-four mated to a couple of electric motors with slightly different outputs for the FWD (225 combined hp) and all-wheel drive (232 combined hp) versions. The Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system works in conjunction with an HEV system that was specifically tuned by engineers to "reduce engine RPMs and increase power from the traction battery to provide satisfying acceleration and torque feel."
Additionally, the eAWD system is also available for the first time on all trim levels - LE, SE, XLE, and XSE. The first units of the new iteration will reach nationwide dealerships next spring, with the 2025 Camry bringing a design by CALTY's Newport Beach, California, and Ann Arbor, Michigan, studios. It mirrors the latest evolution of Toyota's style seen on the Prius or Crown models and features a sleek approach with slim LED lights all around. The SE and XSE grades have a sporty-oriented approach, and all trims are available with the new Ocean Gem and Heavy Metal colors.
Inside, depending on the grade choice, there are SofTex-trimmed seats or Dinamica microfiber-trimmed seats, for example. All trims come standard with a smart key with a push-to-start button and a dual-zone automatic climate control system with rear air vents, for example. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster is offered on LE and SE variants, while the XLE and XSE get a larger 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster and an optional 10-inch Head-Up Display.
Also, the Toyota Audio Multimedia System starts with an 8-inch display. Still, it can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch screen, and there's standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a Qi wireless charging pad, plus five USB-A and USB-C ports. Optional features include the Wi-Fi Connect trial/subscription for 4G connectivity, Drive Connect with Intelligent Assistant, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. Of course, there are also HD Radio, USB data, and a SiriusXM Platinum Plan 3-month trial subscription, plus Integrated Streaming for Apple Music and Amazon Music subscriptions to take advantage of the nine-speaker JBL Premium Audio system upgrade.
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
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