2025 Toyota Camry: Enhanced Design, Forward-Thinking Technology, and Spirited Hybrid Driving

Embarking on a journey through the mountains of Southern California in the refreshed 2025 Toyota Camry exceeded my expectations. The 9th-generation 2025 Camry has undergone significant updates in styling, efficiency, and performance to signal a new era for the trusted and highly respected automotive companion from Japan.

Designed by CALTY's Newport Beach and Ann Arbor studios, the latest Camry boasts a more appealing physique and signature implementations. The distinctive hammerhead front face — a staple of Toyota's modern design language — adds a fresh and more aggressive look. At the same time, LED headlights and daytime running lights are more integrated into the hood line for added styling cues. Details have been crafted to elevate the Camry's appeal from the sporty, mesh front grilles and black finishes of the SE and XSE grades to the refined, understated aesthetics of the LE and XLE.

A few standout features caught our attention, with the unexpected amendment in handling being the most welcomed. As we navigated the winding California countryside, the Camry showcased newfound agility and responsiveness. After a few hours behind the wheel, it was apparent that the 2025 Camry had improved. Engineers fine-tuned the suspension to provide confidence, precise handling, and responsive steering. At the rear, a multi-link suspension system offered additional stability and agility. We noticed the Camry's ability to maintain composure during modestly aggressive maneuvers, keeping the vehicle planted and balanced.

Whether accelerating out of a corner or cruising along the highway, the Camry delivered a smooth and tranquil ride with the right firmness to approach the hairpin turns confidently.

Toyota has also introduced an enhanced braking system. The Electronically Controlled Braking system (ECB) provides precise on-demand pressurization, offering greater control and brake feel. The Camry's braking system demonstrated confidence during our spirited drive, whether coming to a sudden stop or navigating steep descents. Another notable enhancement is the introduction of the Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, available across all grades. This innovative system seamlessly integrates with the 5th-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5), which should provide additional traction and stability when needed, particularly in adverse weather conditions or dynamic driving scenarios like we experienced.

Under the hood, Toyota pairs the THS 5 with a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 225 net-combined horsepower on FWD models, the most standard horsepower ever offered on a Camry. The vehicle also achieves outstanding fuel efficiency with a manufacturer-estimated 51 combined MPG on the LE FWD. We could also customize the driving experience with selectable NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT modes based on preference and driving conditions. Whether seeking optimal fuel efficiency or craving a more delightful ride, the Camry adapts to suit your needs. The SE and XSE grades benefit from a new sport-tuned suspension for those looking for even more performance. With new shock absorbers and a larger diameter front stabilizer bar, they both offer heightened responsiveness with a slightly firmer ride. The result is a sedan that feels equally at home on winding mountain roads during everyday commutes.

Inside, passengers are greeted with improved materials, creating a comfortable and immersive environment. For the Sport grades, such as the SE, SofTex-trimmed seats with bold white accents suggest athleticism. At the same time, the XSE elevates a more premium feel with standard leather-trimmed seats. Both boast standard aluminum sport pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, and a leather-wrapped shift knob. The Comfort grades, such as the LE and XLE, showcase their own unique personality. Ocean waves inspire the LE's interior, while the XLE combines leather and Dinamica microfiber-trim.

Toyota engineers have also enhanced seat comfort by refining the seat cushion's shape and density. In contrast, standard heated front seats (optional on the LE and SE) and available front ventilated seats ensure a comfortable ride in any climate. XLE and XSE grades offer standard 8-way power driver and 6-way power passenger seats. Lastly, front-side acoustic laminated glass in these grades promises to reduce cabin wind noise.

Standard features like the Smart Key System with Push Button Start and dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents enhance comfort and ease of use for a young family on the go. The XLE offers a driver's memory seat, memory side view mirrors, and available automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers. For the first time on a Camry hybrid, the XLE and XSE offer the option of a power tilt and slide panoramic roof with a power-retractable sunshade.

Stepping into the future, the Camry features a range of elevated tech features, including standard digital gauge clusters and an available Head-Up Display, making it easier for drivers to keep their eyes on the road. The Toyota Audio Multimedia System includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and a Qi wireless charging pad, but like most vehicles, good luck getting the phone to stay on your commute. Additionally, several connected services such as Wi-Fi Connect, Drive Connect, and over-the-air updates further enhance the Camry's tech-savvy appeal.

Advanced safety and assistance features, including Safety Connect and Service Connect trials, provide added peace of mind, while the availability of a Digital Key on XLE and XSE grades adds convenience and security. The Camry comes with a Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, presenting a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features like Proactive Driving Assist, a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, and Lane Tracing Assist.

MSRP pricing starts at $28,400 for a Camry LE FWD and up to $36,600 for a Camry XSE FWD. The 2025 Toyota Camry represents a bold evolution of the trusted road companion. With its enhanced performance, refined aesthetics, and new technology, it changes the narrative of the popular sedan, which will surely shake up the midsize sedan segment.