1. Introduction
a. Briefly introduce the electric vehicle you’re reviewing
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan sold globally by Japanese legacy automaker Toyota since 1982. It has a hybrid drivetrain, which combines an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.
Notably, the name “Camry” originated from the Japanese word “kanmuri” or “crown,” following the company’s naming tradition of using the crown name for key models.
b. Explain the context or significance of the vehicle in the EV market
The Toyota Camry is the automaker’s second “world car” after the Corolla.
The Camry is a veteran of the midsize sedan market, which has been losing customers and new entrants as the globe has embraced SUVs in recent years. Despite the shifting market, the Camry has maintained its dominance as the best-selling passenger car for the past 20 years, topping the sales charts.
2. New Features in 2023
In 2023, the SE trim of the Toyota Camry introduces the Nightshade package, featuring black accents for the headlights and taillights, a black front grille, a rear spoiler, mirror caps, and badges. Notably, the Nightshade package also includes stylish matte bronze 19-inch wheels that complement the overall design. This package is available for the body paints Midnight Black, White, and the new Reservoir Blue.
Additionally, the other Camry variants receive upgrades in driver-assistance technology, such as automatic high beams and a forward-facing camera that can identify and display certain road signs on the digital dashboard.
3. Design and Aesthetics:
a. Exterior design and style
The dominant presence of the Camry is emphasized by its strong posture. It also has an option of a black front grille featuring a sport mesh insert.
Its XSE trim sports standard 19 inches gloss-black alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the SE Nightshade Edition features 19-in. TRD matte bronze-finished alloy wheels.
b. Interior design and materials
The Camry is a sedan that appeals to your individual sense of style. It showcases meticulous attention to detail, evident in the stunning herringbone seat pattern found in the XLE model. These finely crafted elements ensure the Camry leaves a memorable and enduring impression.
It has a soft-material upper door trim and interior silver door handles, among others.
c. Build quality and fit and finish
The 2023 Toyota Camry is known for its excellent build quality. Its solid construction uses high-quality materials and components, resulting in a well-built and durable vehicle. Toyota’s focus on reliability and attention to detail contributes to the overall excellent build quality of the Camry Hybrid.
d. Ergonomics and comfort
The 2023 Toyota Camry incorporates ergonomic design principles to ensure that the driver and passengers have easy access to controls and features, with intuitive placement and logical arrangement of the various elements within the cabin.
In terms of comfort, the Camry Hybrid offers spacious seating and ample legroom for front and rear passengers. The seats are designed to provide support and comfort during long drives, and the cabin is well-insulated to minimize noise and vibrations, contributing to a smooth and peaceful ride.
All Hybrid variants support 60/40 split fold-down rear seats with center armrests and cup holders.
e. Cargo space and storage
The 2023 Toyota Camry is known for offering a generous amount of cargo space and storage options. While the exact measurements may vary depending on trim level, the Camry typically provides ample room in the trunk for luggage, groceries, and other items.
2023 Toyota Camry’s LE, XSE, and XLE Hybrid variants are standardly equipped with two front and two rear cup holders, two front doors, and two rear bottle holders.
Below are the Camry’s capacity and volume details:
| Items | LE Hybrid | XSE Hybrid | XLE Hybrid |
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Curb weight (lb.) | 3480 | 3580 | 3565 |
| Cargo volume, rear seatbacks up (cu. ft.) * | 15.1 | 15.1 | 15.1 |
| Fuel tank (gal.) | 13.2 | 13.2 | 13.2 |
| EPA passenger volume (cu. ft.) without moonroof | 99.9 | 99.9 | 99.9 |
| EPA passenger volume (cu. ft.) with moonroof | 98.8 | 98.8 | 98.8 |
4. Performance and Driving Dynamics:
a. Powertrain and battery specifications
The Camry provides an appealing selection of gasoline engines that cater to different preferences. These options include a capable 2.5-liter Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine and a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine. Both engines deliver impressive performance and fuel efficiency, allowing drivers to enjoy a well-rounded driving experience.
It also features Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) as standard.
Below are the 2023 Camry’s electric motor and battery details:
| Specs | LE Hybrid | XSE Hybrid | XLE Hybrid |
| Hybrid System Net Power | 208 HP | 208 HP | 208 HP |
| Power output | 118 HP (88 kW) | 118 HP (88 kW) | 118 HP (88 kW) |
| Torque | 149 lb.-ft. (202 N·m) | 149 lb.-ft. (202 N·m) | 149 lb.-ft. (202 N·m) |
| Electric Motor Voltage | 650 V (max sys.) | 650 V (max sys.) | 650 V (max sys.) |
| Battery Type | Sealed Lithium-ion (Li-ion) | Sealed Lithium-ion (Li-ion) | Sealed Lithium-ion (Li-ion) |
| Traction Battery Voltage | 259.0 V | 259.0 V | 259.0 V |
b. Acceleration and top speed
The 2023 Toyota Camry can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. Meanwhile, its top speed can hit 122 mph.
c. Handling and ride quality
The 2023 Toyota Camry is meticulously designed to offer exceptional handling and a smooth ride thanks to its advanced and robust Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. Its low and wide stance also enhances the driving experience, providing a sharp and elegant feel.
LE, XSE, and XLE Hybrid feature a 4-mode switch (EV, * Eco, Normal, Sport).
d. Braking performance
The three Hybrid variants are standardly equipped with power-assisted ventilated 12-in. front disc brakes and solid 11.06-in. rear disc brakes.
e. Regenerative braking
The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid also features integrated regenerative braking as standard.
5. Range, Charging, and Efficiency:
a. EPA-estimated range and real-world range
The Camry Hybrid utilizes the Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine, a reliable electric motor, and a seamless transmission, resulting in sufficient torque and impressive fuel efficiency. It boasts an EPA-estimated combined rating of 46 mpg.
| Variant | LE Hybrid | XSE Hybrid | XLE Hybrid |
| Mileage estimates (MPG city/highway/combined) * | 51/53/52 | 44/47/46 | 44/47/46 |
b. Charging options and infrastructure
c. Charging times for various charging levels (Level 1, Level 2, DC Fast Charging)
The Hybrid Toyota Camry, like other hybrid vehicles, does not require external charging from an electric charging station. Instead, it utilizes a self-charging hybrid system that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor and a battery pack. The battery pack is charged automatically while driving through a process called regenerative braking, which converts kinetic energy into electrical energy to recharge the battery.
This means that you do not need to find a specific charging station to charge the Hybrid Toyota Camry. The vehicle takes care of charging the battery itself during normal operation. You simply need to refuel the gasoline tank when needed, as you would with a conventional gasoline-powered car.
d. Energy consumption and efficiency
You can access the 2023 Toyota Camry’s fuel economy here.
6. Infotainment and Connectivity:
a. Dashboard and instrument cluster
LE, XSE, and XLE Hybrid variants are standardly equipped with the following:
- One 12V auxiliary power outlet *
- One USB-C charge port *
- Electric Parking Brake (EPB) * with Brake Hold * function
- Tilt/telescopic 3-spoke steering wheel with audio, Multi-Information Display (MID), Bluetooth® * hands-free phone, voice-command, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), * and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) * controls
- Covered center console, armrest and storage
- One USB charge and media port (1.5A) *
- Passenger-side illuminated glove compartment
b. Infotainment system and features
The 2023 Toyota Camry offers the following connected services:
| Specs | LE Hybrid | XSE Hybrid | XLE Hybrid |
| Safety Connect® * — includes Emergency Assistance Button, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, * Automatic Collision Notification, and Stolen Vehicle Locator. * Subscription required. 1-year trial subscription. * 4G network dependent. Less | 1-year trial subscription | 1-year trial subscription | 1-year trial subscription |
| Service Connect * — receive personalized maintenance updates and vehicle health reports. Subscription required after trial. * 4G network dependent. Less | Not Available | Up to 10-year trial subscription | Up to 10-year trial subscription |
| Remote Connect * — remotely interact with your vehicle through the Toyota app * via your smartwatch, * Amazon Alexa-enabled devices, * and Google Assistant™-enabled devices. * Allowing you to lock/unlock doors, start and stop the vehicle, locate your last parked location, check vehicle status and monitor guest drivers. Subscription required after trial. * 4G network dependent. Less | Not Available | 1-year trial subscription | 1-year trial subscription |
| Wi-Fi Connect * — includes AT&T Wi-Fi hotspot. Subscription required after trial. * 4G network dependent. | Up to 3-month/2 GB trial subscription | Up to 3-month/2 GB trial subscription | Up to 3-month/2 GB trial subscription |
c. Smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
The Toyota Camry is available with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
e. Over-the-air software updates
The 2023 Toyota Camry is equipped with Over-The-Air (OTA) update capabilities. OTA updates allow for software updates to be wirelessly downloaded and installed directly into the vehicle’s systems. These updates can include improvements to features, bug fixes, and sometimes even the addition of new functionalities.
7. Safety and Driver Assistance:
a. Driver assistance and safety systems (ADAS)
Below are 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid’s standard safety features:
- Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) * — Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), * Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA), * Automatic High Beams (AHB), * Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), * Road Sign Assist (RSA) * and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) *
- Star Safety System™ — includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), * Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) * and Smart Stop Technology® (SST) *
- Safety Connect® *— includes Emergency Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Locator, * Roadside Assistance * and Automatic Collision Notification. Available by subscription after 1-year trial * has ended. 4G network dependent.
- Driver and front passenger Whiplash-Injury-Lessening (WIL) seats *
- LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) includes lower anchors on outboard rear seats
- 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions; driver-side Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) and Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (ALR/ELR) on all passenger seatbelts
- Ten airbags * — includes driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, rear seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags
- Collision sensors: deactivate high-voltage battery
- Side-impact door beams
- Front and rear energy-absorbing crumple zones
- Energy-absorbing collapsible steering column
- Child-protector rear door locks and power window lockout control
- Rear-Seat Reminder
- Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) *
- Anti-theft system with alarm
- Integrated backup camera * with projected path
- Automatic engine shut off
8. Reliability, Maintenance, and Warranty:
a. Reliability and build quality concerns
JD Power rated the 2023 Toyota Camry’s predicted reliability with a score of 84 out of 100. According to J.D. Power’s scale, a predicted reliability score of 91-100 is classified as the highest rating, 81-90 as Great, 70-80 as Great, and 0-69 as Fair, indicating below-average reliability.
b. Maintenance and service requirements
| ToyotaCare | LE Hybrid | XSE Hybrid | XLE Hybrid |
| No cost maintenance plan * | $0 (No Cost) | $0 (No Cost) | $0 (No Cost) |
| 24-hour Roadside Assistance * | $0 (No Cost) | $0 (No Cost) | $0 (No Cost) |
Basic Service for every 5,000 miles includes:
- Add Toyota EFI Tank Additive or equivalent (Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa only)
- Check installation of driver’s floor mat
- Inspect and adjust all fluid levels
- Inspect wiper blades
- Rotate tires
- Visually inspect brake linings/drums and brake pads/discs
Intermediate service for every 15,000 miles includes:
- Add Toyota EFI Tank Additive or equivalent (Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa only)
- Check installation of driver’s floor mat
- Inspect and adjust all fluid levels
- Inspect wiper blades
- Rotate tires
- Visually inspect brake linings/drums and brake pads/discs
- Toyota Camry Hybrid Maintenance Schedule
Major service for every 30,000 miles includes:
- Add Toyota EFI Tank Additive or equivalent (Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa only)
- Check installation of driver’s floor mat
- Inspect and adjust all fluid levels
- Inspect wiper blades
- Replace cabin air filter
- Replace engine air filter
- Replace engine oil and oil filter
- Rotate tires
c. Warranty coverage and options
Here’s the warranty information of the 2023 Toyota Camry:
| Specs | LE Hybrid | XSE Hybrid | XLE Hybrid |
| Basic Warranty | 36 months/36,000 miles | 36 months/36,000 miles | 36 months/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain | 60 months/60,000 miles | 60 months/60,000 miles | 60 months/60,000 miles |
| Corrosion Perforation | 60 months/unlimited miles | 60 months/unlimited miles | 60 months/unlimited miles |
| Restraint Systems | 60 months/60,000 miles | 60 months/60,000 miles | 60 months/60,000 miles |
| Hybrid System | 96 months/100,000 miles | 96 months/100,000 miles | 96 months/100,000 miles |
| Hybrid Battery * | 120 months/150,000 miles | 120 months/150,000 miles | 120 months/150,000 miles |
d. Insurance costs and considerations
| Toyota Camry Trim Level | Annual Policy | Six-Month Policy | Per Month |
| LE Hybrid | $1,684 | $842 | $140 |
| XLE Hybrid | $1,778 | $889 | $148 |
| XSE Hybrid | $1,790 | $895 | $149 |
Source: Insuraviz
e. Resale value and depreciation
| Years Old | Depreciation | Residual Value | Resale Value |
| 1 | $2,062 | 93.41% | $29,228 |
| 2 | $4,352 | 86.09% | $26,938 |
| 3 | $5,006 | 84.00% | $26,284 |
| 4 | $5,998 | 80.83% | $25,292 |
| 5 | $7,519 | 75.97% | $23,771 |
| 6 | $9,196 | 70.61% | $22,094 |
| 7 | $10,729 | 65.71% | $20,561 |
| 8 | $11,793 | 62.31% | $19,497 |
| 9 | $13,010 | 58.42% | $18,280 |
| 10 | $14,068 | 55.04% | $17,222 |
Source: CarEdge
9. Comparison to Competitors:
a. Compare the reviewed EV to its key competitors in terms of design, performance, range, and pricing
| Specs | 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid | 2023 Nissan Altima |
| Engine | 2.5L 4-Cylinder ECVT | 2.5L inline 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 208 | 188 |
| City MPG | 44 MPG | 37 MPG |
| Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ | Standard | 2.5L inline 4-cylinder |
| Heated Door Mirrors | Not Available | Not Available |
| Pricing | $28,655 | From $25,000 (Estimated) |
b. Discuss the unique selling points and drawbacks of the reviewed EV compared to its competitors
The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid’s power is higher at 208hp than the 2023 Nissan Altima’s 188hp. Moreover, its city fuel efficiency is also greater at 44 mpg than the Altima’s 37 mpg.
However, they have the same 2.5 L engine. The Camry is also more expensive with a starting price of $28,655 than the Altima’s approximately $25,000.
10. Variants and Pricing:
a. List the available trim levels, options, and pricing
b. Discuss the value proposition and whether the vehicle is worth the investment
The Camry Hybrid offers excellent fuel efficiency, which can result in significant savings on fuel costs over time, especially if you do a lot of city driving or have a long daily commute.
Furthermore, Toyota has a reputation for producing reliable and long-lasting vehicles. The Camry Hybrid benefits from this reputation, with many owners reporting satisfaction with its longevity and dependability.
11. Conclusion:
a. Summarize your overall impressions of the electric vehicle
The Camry Hybrid incorporates design elements that enhance its visual appeals, such as a distinctive front grille, sleek headlights, and elegant body contours. Specifically, the hybrid variant often features unique hybrid badges and subtle styling cues that differentiate it from the non-hybrid models.
b. Provide a recommendation for potential buyers
The Toyota Camry Hybrid is generally considered a good car. It has received positive reviews for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable driving experience. If you are looking for a hybrid vehicle, the Camry might be the one for you.
