Do Camrys have leather seats?
Leather seating is available on Camrys, particularly on higher-end trims such as XLE and XSE in recent years. Entry-level trims typically use cloth upholstery, while some mid-range trims may use SofTex, Toyota's synthetic leather, or offer leather as an optional upgrade depending on year and market.
Upholstery by trim: what to expect in modern Camrys
Here's a quick look at how seat materials are allocated across trims in recent Camry models. Availability can vary by model year and region, so always check the exact configuration for the car you’re considering.
- XLE and XSE trims commonly feature leather-trim seats (with higher-end finishes and optional heated seats on some years).
- Other trims typically use SofTex (synthetic leather) or cloth upholstery; leather as standard is less common outside XLE/XSE and may be offered as part of optional packages depending on year/market.
When shopping, use the dealer’s window sticker or Toyota’s online build tool to confirm the seat material for the specific model year you want.
Understanding SofTex vs real leather
SofTex is Toyota’s synthetic leather made to mimic the feel of real leather, offering easier cleaning and lower cost. Real leather typically appears on higher trims and may include perforated surfaces and contrasting stitching, along with potential features like heated seats integrated with the upholstery.
How to verify leather seats on a Camry you’re considering
Not all Camrys are created equal when it comes to seat materials. Use these steps to verify the exact upholstery before you buy or lease.
- Check the window sticker (Monroney label) for the seat trim specification, often listed as "Seat Trim" or "Upholstery."
- Ask the dealer for the exact material name (e.g., "Leather-trim," "SofTex," or "Leather seats") and whether the seat surfaces are genuine leather or synthetic.
- Inspect the interior in person to distinguish leather from SofTex by texture, grain pattern, and smell.
- Confirm additional features that may accompany leather seats, such as heated front seats or ventilation.
With confirmation, you’ll ensure the Camry you test-drive or purchase matches your upholstery preference.
Summary
In short, Camrys do offer leather seating, particularly on the XLE and XSE trims in recent model years. Lower trims generally use SofTex or fabric, with leather sometimes available via options depending on year and market. Always verify with the dealer or official build configuration for the exact model you want.
What Toyota model has leather seats?
Many Toyota models offer leather or synthetic leather (SofTex) seats, particularly on higher trim levels. Examples include the Camry, Highlander, 4Runner, Crown, and some Corolla and RAV4 trims. The availability and type of leather depend on the specific model, year, and trim.
Toyota models with leather or synthetic leather options
- Camry: Higher trims like the XLE and 2.5V offer genuine leather seats.
- Highlander: Many versions, including the 2021 and 2016 models, have leather upholstery as an available option.
- 4Runner: Some models, like the 2023 version, come with leather seats.
- Corolla: Some trims, such as the 2024, include a synthetic leather (SoftTex) option, often with heated seats and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.
- Corolla Hybrid: The 2022 model offered a SoftTex interior package.
- RAV4: Upper trims, such as the Limited model, feature SofTex material, which is a synthetic leather alternative.
- Crown: Some models come with leather interiors, including the 2023 version.
Important considerations
- Trim level: Leather and SofTex are usually reserved for mid-to-high trim levels.
- Model year: Availability varies by model year, with newer models often having more options.
- Synthetic vs. genuine: Some models use a synthetic material like SofTex instead of, or in addition to, genuine leather.
Which Camry to stay away from?
You should stay away from the 2007–2014 Toyota Camry, particularly the 2007–2011 models with the 2.4L 2AZ-FE engine due to oil consumption issues, and the 2012–2014 models that had transmission and AC problems. The 2018–2019 models also had reports of transmission issues with their 8-speed automatics.
Specific model years to avoid and why
- 2007–2011: These models, especially those with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, are prone to excessive oil consumption due to a design flaw in the piston rings. This can lead to serious engine damage, like rod knock, if not maintained meticulously.
- 2012–2014: These years experienced recurring problems with the automatic transmission, including slipping and torque converter issues. Owners also reported a musty smell from the AC system due to mold growth, and other issues with the AC compressor or heating.
- 2018–2019: Some of these models had problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission, leading to funky shifting.
What to consider instead
If you're looking for a reliable used Camry, focus on other model years like 2005–2006, 2015, or 2016–2017 models. You may also consider models from 2010 onwards, which had more reliable engines and safety features like standard stability control.
Do any Camrys have leather seats?
Yes, many Toyota Camry models come with leather seats, particularly in the higher-end trims like the XLE and XSE. Newer models often feature leather-trimmed or leather-and-Dinamica® upholstery as standard on these trims, with options for heated and ventilated front seats.
- XLE and XSE trims: These are the primary trims that include standard leather-trimmed or leather-and-Dinamica® seats, often with heated and power-adjustable front seats.
- XLE Hybrid: This hybrid version also comes with standard leather-trimmed front seats.
- Seating materials: For newer models, the XLE and XSE trims feature a combination of leather and Dinamica® upholstery, while the SE and Nightshade trims typically have SofTex®-trimmed seats.
- Customization: If a specific model doesn't come with leather, it's often possible to have them installed as an aftermarket addition.
Why is Toyota discontinuing the Camry?
Toyota is not discontinuing the Camry globally, but is ending sales in Japan due to low domestic demand, a shift toward SUVs in that market, and the overlap with the Toyota Crown. The Camry will continue to be produced for other major markets, including North America, where it remains popular.
Reasons for discontinuing the Camry in Japan
- Low domestic sales: The Camry was selling poorly in Japan, with only 6,000 units sold in 2022, making up a small fraction of its global sales.
- Shift in consumer preference: Japanese consumers have increasingly favored SUVs and crossovers over sedans, a trend that hurt sales.
- Market overlap with the Crown: The Crown, which Toyota has reinvented as a quasi-crossover, fills a similar market role as the Camry, leading Toyota to focus on that model in Japan.
The Camry's future in other markets
- Continued global production: The Camry will continue to be produced for other markets where it is popular, such as the United States.
- Strong sales in North America: The Camry remains a strong seller in the U.S., which is one of its largest markets.
- New generation: A new generation of the Camry is planned for markets outside of Japan.
