By KBB.com Editors
KBB Expert Rating: 7.5
Whether it was years of criticism regarding the Camry's lackluster styling, or a gentle wakeup call from Korean competitors like the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima, Toyota finally took the plunge last year and gave its hot-selling family sedan the red-carpet treatment. With a stronger appeal to younger buyers, Toyota hopes to keep the 2013 Camry's impressive sales figures running high, and with models ranging from the base L to the sporty SE, to the fuel-efficient Hybrid or the luxurious XLE, it seems there is no shortage of variations to appeal to just about every taste. Still, the Camry is facing some tough competition this year from the new Chevy Malibu and Ford Fusion, as well as more visually alluring models from Nissan, Kia and Mazda.
If you like the idea of Toyota quality and resale value, but years of Camry mass-appeal styling has made you look elsewhere, the 2013 Toyota Camry will bring a smile to your face. Fuel economy on the hybrid model is actually better than some compact sedans.
While its styling has improved, the 2013 Toyota Camry still looks the wallflower when placed beside the new Fusion, Optima or Mazda6. And, Toyota still doesn't offer an all-wheel-drive option, an important attribute for those who live in snowy climes.
What's New for 2013
The 2013 Toyota Camry sedan sees some improvement in interior materials and color matching. Cross Traffic Alert is added to the Blind Spot Monitoring System, which is now optional on the SE trim. Camry L and Camry Hybrid LE gain the new Display Audio radio as standard equipment, and all models now feature a new turn-signal stalk requiring only one tap to initiate a 3-blink sequence.
Driving Impressions Last year's makeover saw Toyota engineers diligently work to improve the Camry sedan's structure and suspension. More high-strength steel was used, increasing rigidity of the body while trimming weight –...
significantly on gasoline models and by over 230 whopping pounds on the hybrid models. Revised chassis components and new geometry give all Camrys a more confident feel with better ride compliance and body control, changes that are particularly noticeable when the going gets twisty. Numerous new noise-abatement technologies also make the 2013 Toyota Camry nearly silent over most roads. Without a doubt, the biggest beneficiary of Camry's recent remake is the Hybrid. With major mass reduction, handling dynamics on par with its conventional kin, and a redone Hybrid Synergy Drive system that finally has the engine/motor/transmission triumvirate speaking far more directly to each other, the most fuel-efficient Camry variant has far greater consumer appeal regardless of the price of gasoline.UPGRADED HYBRID SYNERGY DRIVE (HSD)
Taking a much-needed next step in the greener arena, the 2013 Toyota Camry Hybrid features Toyota's most technologically advanced HSD system to date. Light, tight and impressively integrated, the new system yields spirited performance under all conditions and an eye-popping set of fuel economy numbers.
TOYOTA ENTUNE INFOTAINMENT
Still a work in progress, Toyota's new Entune multimedia/telematics system already shows solid introductory capabilities and offers both a user-friendly interface and the promise of an ever-expanding group of downloadable apps that should make it a worthy state-of-the-art rival to in-car alternatives of its competitors.
Interior
The Toyota Camry cabin for 2013 is generous in both space and contemporary sophistication, highlighted by a leather-covered "layered" dash set off by trim-specific instrumentation and a center cluster inspired by portable music players. Headroom is generous in all positions, while aft passengers are treated to ample hiproom and legroom. Other key pluses include a set of supportive front bucket seats, and revised lower cushions on the 60/40 folding rear bench seat that adds stretch space for the middle rider. Trunk space is also generous, but sees a 2.1 cubic-foot reduction on hybrid models.
The 2013 Camry sedan sports a bold front and rear look with highly expressive contours and character lines that impart a wide, low look and a pronounced wedge-like profile. Helping the cause are a host of subtle touches like mini-strakes on the mirrors and taillights that channel air to improve stability, and new underbody work that further reduces drag. Unique front/rear/side-sill styling adds more cosmetic swagger to the Camry SE while blue-trimmed "Hybrid" and "HSD" (Hybrid Synergy Drive) badges visually define the most fuel-efficient 2013 Camry.
The base Camry L sedan offers numerous power assists, air conditioning, cruise control, Display Audio with USB/iPod inputs, Bluetooth, Toyota's STAR safety system and 10 airbags. The LE adds keyless remote entry, a multifunction steering wheel, and an upgraded Display Audio sound system. Moving up to the Camry SE nets you a dedicated sport suspension/wheel/tire package with unique trim, Softex covered sport seats and paddle shifters. The top-line Camry XLE sedan features dual power seats, dual-zone climate control, a power moonroof and premium fabric or leather (V6-only) upholstery. Both the SE/XLE V6s add Navigation and Entune multimedia telematics, HD radio and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. The Camry Hybrid sedan offers LE and XLE trim-level appointments.
The 2013 Toyota Camry sedan's extras roster is confined to color choices on the L trim and a power driver's seat and moonroof on the LE. SE/XLE buyers can opt for upgraded Display Audio packages with Navigation and Entune – including a 10-speaker premium JBL system – as well as dedicated Convenience Packages and Leather-trimmed Ultrasuede Sport Seats, while SEs can also be had with a power moonroof. Camry Hybrids offer a Leather Package, Moonroof Package and two tiers of JBL-enhanced Upgrade Packages, one with Navigation and one without.
Last year's drivetrain revamps yielded impressive gains in both performance and fuel economy that carry over for all 2013 Toyota Camry sedans. Modest internal enhancements to the 178-horsepower 2.5-liter four, 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and their standard 6-speed automatic transmissions, plus lower-rolling-resistance tires, help improve EPA city/highway numbers. Improvements to the Camry Hybrid include lighter, more compact and better-managed electrical components – including a newly redesigned battery pack and a CVT (continuously variable transmission) automatic with new ECO and EV modes. While the total hybrid-system output is set at 200 horsepower, preliminary EPA figures – 43/39 mpg for the LE and 41/38 mpg for the XLE – reflect superb fuel economy for a mid-size sedan.
2.5-liter inline-4
178 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
(PZEV 173 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm)
170 lb-ft of torque @ 4,100 rpm
(PZEV 165 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/35 mpg (6-speed automatic)
3.5-liter V6
268 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm
248 lb-ft of torque @ 4,700 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/30 mpg (6-speed automatic)
2.5-liter inline-4 plus a 105-kilowatt battery pack
Engine: 156 horsepower @ 5,750 rpm
Battery: 141 horsepower @ 4,500 rpm
Total hybrid system (engine and battery): 200 horsepower
Engine: 156 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm
Battery: 199 lb-ft of torque @ 0-1,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 43/39 mph (LE with CVT automatic), 41/38 mpg (XLE with CVT automatic)
Toyota has placed more emphasis on total value for the 2013 Camry while encouraging more buyers to consider moving beyond entry-level trims. The 2013 Toyota Camry L sedan opens just under $23,000, while the XLE V6 slips in just under $31,000. On the Camry Hybrid front, the LE starts around $27,000 the premium XLE version opens below $28,500. To make your best deal check our Fair Purchase Price. It provides a reliable indicator of what other in your area are paying for their Camrys. Historically, the Toyota Camry has shown above-average reliability with similarly robust long-term resale stats. Intense competitive pressures notwithstanding, that tradition seems likely to continue on with this new Class of 2013.
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Toyota Camry vehicles for sale near you.
Based on 106 Ratings for the 2012 - 2013 models.
Review this carBy LC (FL) on Wednesday, July 31, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 6,969
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "Fun to drive"
Cons: "Even the passenger can't access navigation option."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Love this car. I get great gas mileage, plus for a four cylinder I am amazed at the available pickup it has when wanted."
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By WAM GA (GA) on Sunday, July 28, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 18,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "Stable on the highway when passing the bigrigs"
Cons: "Cheep tires"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9
"Purchased the vehicle new (Camry SE) in January of 2013. I drive a good bit so I quickly rack up miles on a vehicle. Fuel mileage has been good. The lowest mileage that it has given was 25 mpg, this was sitting in heavy stop and go traffic. Most of the time it averages 28 to 30 mpg commuting to and from work. The only thing that I can complain about is the tires, they seem as if they are low quality (cheep) and generate some road noise. Other than that the car has been great."
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By BRE (VA) on Wednesday, July 24, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 45
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "roomy interior, love the moon roof, nice interior"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Just purchased the 2013 CAMRY SE. I We traded in an 05 Nissan Quest. As you can imagine cars have come along way. I love how comfortable the seats are front and back. I really am happy that I got the moonroof. I am still learning features on this car. I was a little nervous going from a minivan to the Camry but I am so happy I did."
1 person out of 4 found this review helpful
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By Pattie (UT) on Tuesday, July 23, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 8,200
overall rating 7 of 10rating detailsPros: "Handling & 6 speed auto improvement over previous."
Cons: "Poor gas mileage - see last paragraph of review"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 5
"Traded 2000 V6 Camry for new 2012 4 Cylinder Camry LE on a 3 year lease. "I miss my old Camry". The new Camry handles a little better as it doesn't have as much roll on sharp turns and has a tighter turning circle. It does well in heavy traffic and with the 6 speed transmission responds quickly. I do like the new look for the exterior but the interior really is a disappointment. The materials look cheap particularly the seats and floor mats. The grey cloth seats are easily soiled and already look worst than the 2000 Camry. It is easy to see where Toyota cut corners. Overall, I like the way it handles and drives better than my older Camry but the quality is much less. The biggest concern I have is the mileage. After 8200 miles I average 19-21 MPG in the city and with 75%/25 city/ highway only 22-23 MPG. I got much better mileage in my 2000 V6 using. The main reason I traded was to lower my gas expense and to get a cleaner burning auto. Toyota's claim about the mileage is vastly over exaggerated. I am now in negotiations with the dealer however their attitude is that it is not their problem."
6 people out of 7 found this review helpful
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By dw (OH) on Tuesday, July 23, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 11,000
overall rating 3 of 10rating detailsPros: "great looking"
Cons: "Burns oil rapidly. Toyota refuses to repair."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1
"Looks great, drives great, but burns 1 quart of oil every 1200 miles and 4 quarts every 4800 miles. Vehicle only holds 4.7 quarts. Have had it back to dealer on four occasions. Dealer informed me that this is within toyota specs. Called toyota engineer and was again told this was within toyota specs. Toyota refuses to repair vehicle. Owners manual states that toyota accepted specs is burning 1 quart per 600 miles. Buyers beware. Will not purchase another toyota."
6 people out of 7 found this review helpful
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By RW (MD) on Monday, July 22, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "Quality overall is great. Car is made to last. Fun"
Cons: "Handling v. good, though still like a sedan."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9
"Chose the SE model. Fit and finish excellent, much better than the Mazda 6 I also looked into. Interior is really well done, feels like a more expensive car. 4 cylinder and 6 speed automatic has plenty of pickup, no problem weaving in and out of traffic around the DC beltway. Handling is very good, not as responsive as some but it's tight. It handles like a midsize car. Very quiet and comfortable ride on trips, rear seats actually have enough leg/head room for two adults."
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