Toyota’s redesigned 2025 Camry hybrid is positioned as a sedan that competes with the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata, while nudging into the territory of its bigger sibling, the Toyota Crown.
Revamped moderately from its predecessor, the new Camry now comes exclusively in a hybrid format. Toyota hasn’t made many styling changes, opting instead for subtle differences like new mesh or horizontally ribbed grilles, along with wheels that range from 16 to 19 inches.
With its boldest shape yet, down to an optional black roof, the Camry presents a striking profile for its class. Inside, the layout is more restrained, featuring larger touchscreens that stand prominently on a straightforward dash. The interior is more unified than before, though there are some budget-conscious materials in noticeable areas—yet, overall, it feels cohesive and functional.
DESIGN
Toyota has given the ninth-generation Camry a light refresh and shifted it to an all-hybrid lineup, but it retains nearly the same dimensions and core design as the previous model. Known for its daring shape, this 2025 version leans bold without being revolutionary. Our Camry XSE test model sported a Heavy Metal exterior with a Midnight Black Metallic roof and Cockpit Red interior, adding a distinctively athletic feel.
Extended by about 1.4 inches primarily through bumper redesign, the new Camry’s front trades the busy “X-wing” grille for a cleaner look, featuring a wide lower grille in mesh or bar patterns, reminiscent of the Lexus spindle design. Side air intakes frame the edges, while a crossbar connects the LED headlights, echoing the style of the Toyota Crown. It rides on 19-inch dark grey metallic wheels, adding to its refined stance.
Sculpted lines enhance the profile, with a prominent body line that rises through the door handles to meet wraparound LED taillights. A subtle crease adds visual movement along the lower doors from front to rear wheel. Above, the roofline leans toward a fastback silhouette like the Accord and Sonata, yet the Camry still offers a conventional trunk, complemented by a gloss black rear spoiler, trunk garnish, and Camry badge.
Inside, the updates focus on a more seamless touchscreen setup that simplifies the previously layered dashboard. Gone is the overlapping center panel; it’s now replaced by a more unified horizontal design with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. It’s a cleaner, more cohesive look, though the console retains a barrier on the passenger side, holding the same control panel for drive modes and a traditional gear shifter.
PERFROMANCE
Toyota’s latest Camry hybrid system now features lighter, more compact motors that work alongside the familiar 2.5-liter inline-4 engine. Together, they deliver a combined output of 225 horsepower in the front-wheel-drive model.
Each Camry version comes with Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes that tailor throttle and powertrain response, although the differences are subtle. At around 3,500 pounds, the Camry accelerates confidently, with the traction battery providing an extra boost off the line. Its hybrid transmission also mimics an 8-speed automatic with artificial shift points.
Known for its precise steering and smooth brake modulation, the Camry retains these strengths, refined further by a stiffer body structure. Navigating traffic and taking on wide, sweeping turns feels both nimble and controlled, showcasing the sedan’s well-rounded capabilities.
A tuned suspension enhances handling without sacrificing comfort. All Camry models are equipped with MacPherson struts in the front and a multilink rear suspension, but the XSE’s sport-tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels bring a firmer response. Dampers are tuned to soak up bumps without harshness, striking a nice balance that feels composed without transferring jolts into the cabin.
VERDICT
With an MSRP of $34,600, the refreshed 2025 Toyota Camry XSE combines striking design with a sporty edge. Opting for the exclusive exterior color at $425 and the Premium Plus Package for an additional $4,075 brings the total to $42,195, delivering a well-equipped blend of style and performance at a competitive price.
Competition
Toyota’s new Crown sits a bit higher and stretches a little longer, straddling the line between crossover and sedan with two distinct hybrid options.
Honda doubled down on efficiency with the 2023 Accord Hybrid, targeting it as the primary model and achieving up to 48 mpg combined.
Hyundai’s Sonata Hybrid impresses with up to 52 mpg, though Toyota holds an advantage in being the only one in this hybrid sedan class to offer AWD.
Often overlooked yet a strong contender, the Subaru Legacy offers standard AWD and a full suite of safety features, making it an ideal choice for practical, everyday driving.
Strengths: Exclusive hybrid powertrain, optional AWD, impressive standard features, and standard wireless CarPlay.
Weaknesses: Abundant plastic in the dashboard and limited rear seat access.
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