more about this model The 2018 Toyota Camry is a strong contender among midsize sedans; it excels at everyday functionality and has few major drawbacks. Available in five distinct trim levels with two distinct styling themes among them, along with two engine choices, there's a Camry to suit many sensibilities and budgets. A handful of option packages are available, too.
The 2018 Camry is offered in L, LE, SE, XSE and XLE trim levels. The entry-level L is Toyota's entry-level variant that will feature heavily in advertisements for its price point and fuel economy numbers but in reality will be scarce out in the wild. No options are offered and it's sparsely equipped, wearing 16-inch steel wheels, cloth upholstery and manual seat adjustments. Most people will gravitate to higher trim levels. The LE is a nice step up, with a power driver seat and a 60/40-split folding back seat, plus 17-inch aluminum wheels.
Clearly, the L and LE trim levels are tailored for value shoppers. Stepping up to the SE variant puts buyers into what we reckon is the sweet spot in the 2018 Camry range. Its firmer suspension and revised steering tuning simply give the Camry sharper dynamics that will appeal to drivers of all stripes. Moreover, these models come equipped with 18-inch wheels, automatic climate control, premium vinyl upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
XLE and XSE trim levels represent the most thoroughly equipped Camrys and are for shoppers who want to maximize the comfort and convenience quotient. These models get dual-zone climate control, leather seats, a head-up display, keyless ignition, Qi wireless smartphone charging and more. Notably, these models are the only ones with which a V6 can be paired. While we prefer the handling of the lighter four-cylinder Camry, we don't begrudge anyone who wants to revel in the Camry's potent V6's power. Be aware, however, that those two extra cylinders cost you dearly on the sticker price, adding thousands to the bottom line.
Among midsize sedans, the 2018 Camry, particularly with the four-cylinder, is competitively priced. Its strong fuel economy and energetic power delivery will satisfy a broad swath of drivers, so don't feel obligated to ignore it. When you're ready to find the right 2018 Camry for you, Edmunds' first-rate car-buying tools and tips are always at your disposal. 2018 toyota camry first drive
A Striking New Stance
The new Camry hints at its personality and performance from a dozen yards away, with proportions that benefit greatly from the longer, lower, wider treatment. Its roof and hoodline are a full inch lower, it stands 0.7 inch wider and, depending on the specific model, it's anywhere between 1.2 and 1.9 inches longer. But the new look is anything but nose- or tail-heavy because the wheelbase has also been stretched a full 1.9 inches.
The design's newfound sleekness is further enhanced by a distinctly lower window line and handsome sheet metal that features a defined crease that knifes through the door handles. Camry L models (L, LE and XLE) wear a more intricate front end than the sportier-looking S models (SE and XSE), which also feature more prominent side skirts.
Upgraded Suspension for a Smoother Ride
None of this would ring true if the chassis couldn't deliver the goods, and here the Camry benefits from what's called Toyota Global New Architecture (TGNA), a collection of tweaks that include a much-needed rear suspension rethink. A visiting Toyota engineer termed it a "trailing type double-wishbone" rear suspension, but a quick peek underneath revealed the presence of exactly zero wishbones.
This lost-in-translation discrepancy is no bad thing, however. In fact it's a multilink setup that approximates double-wishbone geometry, but in a more compact package that doesn't impinge on trunk or passenger space. And that's how this new low-slung Camry retains much of the trunk volume of its bulkier predecessor (15.1 cubic feet, down only slightly from 15.4). It's also how the hybrid version's battery can now fit between the wheels under the rear seat to ensure its trunk is every bit as large, with a fully intact 60/40 pass-through.
As before, the new Camry rides smoothly and soaks up uneven pavement with relative ease. But this new suspension is even better at quelling road noise, and you'd be surprised how much a car's steering and handling can benefit from a well-designed rear suspension that plays along with the front. The recently redesigned Prius demonstrated it, and this Camry seconds the motion with a balanced and poised demeanor it has never managed before.
Even the LE and its relatively skinny 215/55R17 tires turn in crisply and carve a steady line through corners. But things get really interesting at the SE trim level thanks to its thicker stabilizer bars, wider 235/45R18 tires, and a slightly firmer suspension and steering calibration. The XLE falls somewhere in between with 18-inch wheels bolted to the LE suspension, while the XSE adds 19-inch wheels to the SE calibration.
Potent Engines That Remain Fuel-Efficient
As before, the 2018 Camry offers two conventional gasoline engines, both of them substantially more powerful and fuel-efficient than last year. And Toyota has managed this without resorting to downsized turbocharged engines or continuously variable automatic transmissions. At first glance the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.5-liter V6 engines look familiar, but these are significantly redesigned units with a higher compression ratio, Toyota's D4S port-and-direct fuel injection and more capable variable valve timing systems. Both are paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
Toyota expects between 85 and 90 percent of Camry buyers will stick with the base engine, which is fine by us because it now makes 203 horsepower, a full 25 more horses than before. But that's not its only trick. It's also rated at 32 mpg combined (28 city/39 highway), a whopping improvement of 5 mpg. In the new lightweight Camry L model (16-inch wheels, smaller gas tank, manual driver seat, fixed rear seat), it outperforms many compacts with a rating of 34 mpg combined (29 city/41 highway).
No more than 5 or 6 percent of Camry buyers are expected to seek out the 3.5-liter V6 engine, available only on the top-level XSE and XLE models. It can now deliver an impressive 301 hp (up from 268 hp) or sip fuel to the tune of 26 mpg combined (22 city/33 highway). As you would expect, the V6 obviously feels more powerful and it sounds quite refined under load.
We found no compelling reason to upgrade from the willing four-cylinder, which demonstrated a sufficiently meaty powerband. If anything, the smaller engine seemed better matched to the smooth-shifting eight-speed gearbox, which cruised serenely yet showed little reluctance to downshift when it was time to accelerate, even moderately. Beyond power and drivability, the four-cylinder Camry even changed direction more readily and generally felt more nimble. A look at the weight charts reveals the likely reason why: V6 versions weigh almost 200 pounds more, and a good chunk of that hangs over the front tires.
A Much Better Hybrid
Previous editions of the Camry hybrid weren't that impressive, mainly because even the thriftiest LE version was only good for 40 mpg combined (42 city/38 highway). The popular SE and XLE versions hardly seemed worth the effort at 38 mpg combined (40 city/37 highway).
It's a very different story today. The Camry's entire hybrid system has been thoroughly re-engineered. The result is an 8-mpg boost for the 2018 Camry hybrid SE and XLE, which now achieve 46 mpg combined (44 city/47 highway). The thriftier LE grade is practically a Prius at a whopping 52 mpg combined (53 city/51 highway), a staggering 12-mpg increase over last year.
The layout of the hybrid transmission uses a new "low-loss" configuration that's efficient enough to allow the primary electric motor to be downsized from 141 to 118 hp. And the hybrid-optimized version of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine is considerably less thirsty while it manages to make 20 more horsepower than before. Complicated math describes how the two are blended in the electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission, but when you need to floor it the end result is a maximum combined output of 208 hp, an 8-hp improvement.
The LE is so much thriftier because it's nearly 100 pounds lighter. Also, it uses a lighter and more energy-efficient lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack. The SE and XLE hybrids use a nickel-metal hydride (Ni-mh) battery. The benefit here is lower battery cost, which tamps down the price of these more loaded versions. But don't buy any Camry hybrid to save money in the long run. At current national average gasoline prices ($2.29 per gallon), the payback time for the hybrid price premium ranges between nine years for the LE and 13 years for the SE.
Upgraded Interior
Inside, the seating position has been moved down in step with the roof to maintain good headroom. There's a bit more front legroom and the telescopic steering wheel finally has enough range of motion to satisfy even our taller test drivers. Clear gauges are visible through the steering wheel, and the seats have a seamless and enveloping feel that lacks obvious pressure points. The back seat feels quite spacious, too, but tall rear occupants will be more headroom-happy with the regular moonroof than the new high-end panoramic one.
The most noticeable feature is the eye-catching design of the driver-oriented interior itself. The joints between its various component parts are nicely hidden within the lines, and it's built with nice-looking materials that hold up to closer scrutiny. The attractive backdrop presents the driver with an array of nicely grouped controls that are as easy to use as they are attractive.
On the safety front you'll find 10 standard airbags, a backup camera, stability control, traction control, antilock brakes and a tire-pressure monitoring system that displays each tire's pressure and location. But the most impressive safety feature on this new Camry has to be the standard inclusion of the Toyota Safety Sense-P, which means that even the cheapest 2018 Camry will have adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning and mitigation, and auto-dimming LED headlights.
Audio Uh-Oh
The base-level audio system is a six-speaker AM/FM system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth audio, a USB input, an aux jack and Siri Eyes Free/Google voice controls. But we like the optional nine-speaker system with the 8-inch touchscreen because it adds a CD player, HD radio, satellite radio and a Verizon Wi-Fi hotspot.
But there's a slight problem with Toyota's basic approach to phone integration and navigation. It rejects the notion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the basis that they allow too much driver interaction while the car is moving. On top of that, built-in navigation is only offered as an option on the V6 models, which means it's not likely to appear on many Camrys you'll come across. The vast majority of Camry buyers are expected to get their navigation by linking to the Entune 3.0 system and the Scout GPS Link app, which now supports moving maps.
Thing is, it's cumbersome to use because it requires you to pair your phone via Bluetooth, plug it in via the USB port, run the Entune app and then run the Scout GPS Link app, which requires an account and an eventual subscription after the three-year trial period ends. And the system cannot distinguish between a driver's phone and a passenger's. Seems to us that this Rube Goldberg approach may have the opposite effect and encourage people to use the navigation on their phones outside the Entune paradigm in a way that could be more distracting than Apple CarPlay or Android Auto would ever be.
Reasonably Priced to Start
The fuel-sipping L starts the ball rolling at $24,380, with the popular LE coming in at $24,885. That's $930 more than last year, but the old car didn't have the active safety gear, not to mention the extra power, fuel economy, chassis sophistication and outright appeal of the new one. The SE, our personal favorite, debuts at $26,085.
You'll pay $28,685 for an LE hybrid, and at $33,135 the XLE hybrid costs some $2,000 dollars less than its XLE V6 counterpart, which goes for $35,285. But that's not the most expensive Camry. That distinction belongs to the XSE V6, which goes for $35,835.
Option prices have not been released, but LE and SE choices include the aforementioned audio upgrade, a power tilt-slide moonroof, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and push-button start. Higher-level XSE and XLE options include JBL premium audio, the panoramic moonroof, a head-up display, a bird's-eye view camera system, a blacked-out roof and, if you get the V6, built-in navigation with over-the-air updates.
Our First Drive experience was admittedly brief, but the 2018 Toyota Camry nevertheless spoke volumes. It had us grinning like a Camry never has. We're looking forward to an extended drive and a full workup on home turf in the coming weeks, but we fully expect to reaffirm our initial conclusion that it's easily the best Camry ever.
2018 Toyota Camry Overview
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Toyota Camry and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Camry featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Toyota Camry and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 Camry 4.4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 Camry.
Vehicle
LE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 8A)
Review
Compared to the 2015-17 Camry's I found the seats of the 2018 noticably softer, better shaped, more comfortable. Engine pep of the 4 cyl around town felt about the same as the 2015-17?s and the 8 speed transmission of the 2018 is busier than the 6 speed in the 2015-17's, but the gaps between gears are so small that the driver barely notices the shifts, hence they are not particularly irritating. Road and tire noise at low - moderate speeds is similar to the 2015-17 models, but above 50 MPH the 2018 seems quieter plus there?s less body vibration in the 2018 which makes for a more peaceful and serene, lower fatigue highway driving experience. Steering feel and directional stability on the highway were good on the 2015-17 models, but are outstandingly good on the 2018, which is another factor that make the 2018?s more pleasant to drive. There were zero squeaks and rattles on the 2018 LE I drove - impressive for an all new design. Interior of the 2018 feels a little smaller, but space is still adequate. Entry and exit is a little harder on the 2018 due to the 1 inch lower roof and seat height. Overall I really liked the 2018 as it manages to simultaneously feel sportier and more nimble yet with improved ride and seat comfort and the highway ride in particular is noticably calmer, quieter and more serene than the 2015-17 4 cylinder.
See all consumer reviews and retings for the 2018 Toyota Camry
Edmunds Value
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color
Available Toyota Camry 2018 Submodel Types: Sedan
Available Trims: LE, SE, XLE, XSE, XLE V6, SE Sport, LE V6, CE, L, Base, SE V6, SE Limited Edition, Special Edition, Standard, DX
Exterior Colors: Super White, Celestial Silver Metallic, Predawn Gray Mica, Midnight Black Metallic, Attitude Black Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Cosmic Gray Mica, Ruby Flare Pearl, Galactic Aqua Mica, Barcelona Red Metallic, Brownstone, Wind Chill Pearl, Parisian Night Pearl, Creme Brulee Mica, Blue Crush Metallic, Black, Desert Sand Mica, Lunar Mist Metallic, Cypress Pearl, Blue Streak Metallic, Blizzard Pearl, Blue Ribbon Metallic, Titanium Metallic, Aloe Green Metallic, Phantom Gray Pearl, Sandy Beach Metallic, Catalina Blue Metallic, Magnetic Gray, Sky Blue Pearl, Clearwater Blue Metallic, Wind Chill Pearl/Midnight Black Metallic Roof, Cashmere Beige Metallic, Spruce Mica, Aspen Green Pearl, Blue Streak Metallic/Midnight Black Metallic Roof, Champagne Mica, Salsa Red Pearl, Stratosphere Mica, Graphite Gray Pearl, Celestial Silver Metallic/Midnight Black Metallic Roof, Mineral Green Opalescent, Black Walnut Pearl, Sailfin Blue Metallic, Antique Sage Pearl, Classic Green Pearl, Indigo Ink Pearl, Lunar Mist, Mineral Green Opal, Silver Taupe Metallic, Woodland Pearl
Interior Colors: Ash cloth, Black leatherette/cloth, Ash leather, Black premium cloth, Black cloth, Black leather, Macadamia cloth, Ash leatherette/cloth, Black leather/suede, Ivory cloth, Black and Ash leather/suede, Black/Ash leatherette/cloth, Bisque cloth, Macadamia leather, Almond cloth, Almond leather, Dark Charcoal leather, Cockpit Red leather, Stone, Ivory leather, Gray, Ash premium cloth, Black/Ash premium cloth, Dark Charcoal premium cloth, Taupe, Bisque leather, Bisque premium cloth, Fawn, Black/Blue leatherette/cloth, Stone cloth, Taupe cloth, Dark Charcoal, Dark Gray
Popular Features: Rear Bench Seats, Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel, Fold Flat Rear Seats, Aux Audio Inputs, Tire Pressure Warning, Power Driver Seat, Stability Control, Trip Computer, Bluetooth, USB Inputs, Back-up camera, Alarm, Upgraded Headlights, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Pre-collision safety system, Auto Climate Control, Sunroof/Moonroof, Multi-Zone Climate Control, Heated seats, Blind Spot Monitoring, Leather Seats, Keyless Entry/Start, Navigation, Post-collision safety system, Mobile Internet, Upgraded Stereo, Heads up display, 360-degree camera, Remote Start
Engine/Mechanics: 4, 6 cylinders
Transmission: AUTOMATIC, MANUAL
Fuel Types: regular unleaded, premium unleaded (required)
Drivetrains: front wheel drive
Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored event, to which selected members of the press were invited, to facilitate this report.
