INTRO
I recently was in the need of a new car after my old car, a 1998 Honda Accord LX, was totalled in an accident. I wanted something with the same reliability of the Accord which went 75000 miles with no problems. I also wanted something with more power and speed as the Accord was much too underpowered at 150 hp. I had narrowed down my choices to 3 cars, the BMW 325i, Infiniti G35, and Toyota Camry XLE V6. The BMW and Infiniti had great leases, but I was looking to buy a car rather than lease.
EXTERIOR
I settled at the Camry because of the good reputation it has as a very reliable car. But one of its negatives is its boring and bland styling. It is too plain and doesnt have any sleek lines or anything like the BMW. It doesnt have that sporty look you want in a car and doesnt come with a spoiler or great rims. The 16" rims are just above average, but that can easily be upgraded. It does come standard with fog lights though.
INTERIOR
This is where the Camry feels like a $40000 BMW. There is standard leather seating which is of high quality and has leatherette door trims. The dashboard contains a lot of high quality materials and there is a lot of wood in the interior. The stereo controls are a little hard to adjust to, but the gauges are easy too read and everything is in the right place. There are dual power seats for the driver as well as the passenger and the seats provide good support. There is also a lot of room in the back seat as well as good leg room in the front. This is definately one of the Camrys strong points.
THE DRIVE
The Camry XLE V6 comes with a 3.0L V6 that manufactures 210hp and 220 ft-lbs of torque. It has enough power to accelerate you from 0-60 in 7.4 seconds, which is slower than most of its competitors, the Accord, Altima, and Maxima. But, this engine is probably the most refined unit I have ever driven as there is not a single sound in the cabin, even in highway driving. At about 75 mph, the engine turns at about 2700rpm, and it is a very quiet and stable ride. There is little torque steer, something uncommon for a FWD car with 220 torque. The car handles just adequately as the car feels it is being pushed while accelerating through corners. Because of the limited power, there is not much of a fun factor involved in this car, but there is enough for highway cruising. This car has gotten me to over 110 to 115 mph without even feeling it. It feels like youre going 70. A very stable yet boring engine.
CONCLUSION
Ive had this car for more than a month now and 800 miles later i have no problems with it. I shouldnt anyway as Toyota is known for its great reliability and service. This is a very practical car and is recommended, but if youre looking for a faster, meaner looking car, look elsewhere. If youre looking for a luxury sedan for under $30000, this is the car for you.
Amount Paid (US$): 25000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2005
Model and Options: XLE V6 5 speed automatic