2025 Toyota Camry First Drive: A New Era for the Best-Selling Sedan?
Toyota Goes All-In on Hybrid Power
Toyota has long been the industry leader in hybrid powertrains, and for 2025, the company is making a bold move: the ninth-generation Camry will be available exclusively as a hybrid. This decision aligns with the growing demand for fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles and reinforces Toyota’s dominance in the hybrid space.
Why is this such a brilliant move? In 2024, smart car buyers are opting for hybrids, and for decades, the Camry has been the ultimate sensible sedan. Combining these two elements could solidify the Camry’s continued success.
A Sleeker, More Modern Camry
The Camry shed its “boring” reputation with the previous generation, and for 2025, Toyota refines the look even further. The new design boasts a sleeker, chiseled exterior, with distinct trim levels to suit different tastes.
- LE (Base Model): 16-inch alloy wheels, simple and clean styling
- SE/XLE: Sportier front grille, chrome-finished window trim
- XSE (Top Trim): Black-metallic painted roof, rear diffuser, and a more aggressive stance
Toyota has made sure that this is not just another “uncle’s Camry.” With the right configuration, it can even look downright sporty.
2025 Toyota Camry: Key Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $28,400 |
| Engine | 2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Transmission | eCVT |
| Horsepower | 225 hp (FWD) / 232 hp (AWD) |
| Fuel Economy | 53/50/51 mpg (best: LE FWD) |
| Curb Weight | 3,450 – 3,682 lbs |
| Legroom (Front/Rear) | 42.1 in. / 38 in. |
| Headroom (Front/Rear) | 38.3 in. / 37.6 in. |
| Cargo Space | 15.1 ft³ |
Interior: Comfort and Class
During a test drive through San Diego’s hilly backroads, the Camry’s interior left a lasting impression. The XSE trim, in particular, features leather-trimmed seats with a stylish “shooting blade” perforation pattern. Toyota has enhanced the seats for better support and softness, making long drives more comfortable.
Overall, the cabin feels familiar but upgraded—spacious, quiet, and ergonomically refined. Front-side acoustic laminated glass in XLE and XSE trims enhances the tranquil experience, making the ride even more enjoyable.
Infotainment: A Notable Upgrade
Toyota has stepped up its tech game in the new Camry. Even the base model comes with features that rival top-tier competitors:
- 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (Honda Accord only offers wireless integration on top trims)
- Five USB ports (mix of USB-A and USB-C)
- Optional 12.3-inch multimedia screen (XLE/XSE trims)
- 10-inch Head-Up Display (XLE/XSE trims)
- Wi-Fi Connect subscription available for up to five devices
This tech-forward approach makes the Camry a strong competitor in the midsize sedan market.
Performance: Up to 232 HP with Impressive MPG
The 2025 Camry pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with Toyota’s hybrid system, delivering 225 hp in FWD models and 232 hp in AWD variants. The eCVT transmission ensures smooth and efficient power delivery.
Fuel Economy Breakdown by Trim
| Trim | City/Highway/Combined MPG |
|---|---|
| LE FWD | 53/50/51 |
| LE AWD | 51/49/50 |
| SE/XSE/XLE FWD | 48/47/47 |
| SE/XLE AWD | 46/46/46 |
| XSE AWD | 44/43/44 |
Even in its least efficient trim, the Camry delivers 44 mpg combined, proving Toyota’s commitment to fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
On the Road: A Smooth, Enjoyable Drive
Toyota has significantly improved the braking feel with a smoother hybrid regeneration system. Unlike many hybrids, the transition between mechanical and regenerative braking is seamless.
The ride quality strikes a perfect balance—soft enough to absorb bumps but firm enough to minimize body roll in corners. In the XSE trim, the Camry even feels playful on winding roads, making it more enjoyable to drive than previous generations.
The Best Camry Yet?
The 2025 Toyota Camry is more refined, more efficient, and better to drive than ever before. While the Prius remains Toyota’s fuel economy champion, the Camry offers a larger, more comfortable, and more versatile package.
Toyota’s decision to go all-hybrid is a bold one, but it makes perfect sense. Buyers looking for a dependable, fuel-efficient, and surprisingly fun-to-drive midsize sedan will find a lot to love in the 2025 Camry.
