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Is a Toyota Camry a V6 or 4-cylinder?

In the current Camry lineup, you can get either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6; most models are the four-cylinder, and all Camry Hybrid versions use the four-cylinder powertrain. The V6 is available on higher trims like XLE, XSE, and TRD.

Engine options in recent Camrys

The Camry has three primary powertrain choices in modern generations. Here is a concise guide to what you’ll typically find on current and recent models.

2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder (non-hybrid): The standard engine on most trims, producing about 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is offered with front-wheel drive as standard; all-wheel drive is available on some configurations.

3.5-liter V6: Available on higher-end trims (such as XLE and XSE) and the performance-focused TRD in many model years. It delivers around 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, also paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is typically front-wheel drive, with limited or no all-wheel drive availability depending on year and market.

2.5-liter four-cylinder Hybrid: The Camry Hybrid uses the same 2.5L four-cylinder paired with electric motors to deliver a combined output around 208 hp. This powertrain is available across multiple trims for efficiency, and there is no V6 option in the hybrid.

These engine choices reflect Toyota’s approach to balancing performance and efficiency in the Camry. If you prioritize acceleration and leaderboard horsepower, the V6-equipped trims are the route to go. If you value fuel economy and a modern hybrid option, the 4-cylinder and hybrid variants are the better fit.

Performance-focused trims

Higher trims that offer the V6—such as XLE, XSE, and the TRD—are where you’ll notice the difference in straight-line speed and turbocharged-style response. The V6 typically pairs with an eight-speed automatic and is designed for buyers seeking stronger peak power and refinement in acceleration.

Efficiency-focused options

The 4-cylinder non-hybrid Camry and the Camry Hybrid prioritize efficiency and everyday usability. The hybrid combines the 2.5L engine with electric motors to achieve higher mpg, while the standard 2.5L four-cylinder remains the backbone for most daily driving needs with solid torque and smooth reliability.

Summary

In short, the Toyota Camry offers both engine families depending on the year and trim. Most buyers will encounter the 2.5-liter four-cylinder (including hybrids for best fuel economy), while higher trims like XLE, XSE, and TRD offer the 3.5-liter V6 for more power. Always check the exact specifications for the model year you’re considering, as engine availability can shift between generations and market regions.

Are Camrys 4 or 6 cylinders?

Even though the 4-cylinder model is the more fuel-efficient choice, the V6 option will appeal to those who value performance and an exciting driving experience. In a review by Car and Driver, the Camry's V6 engine was praised for its “smooth and responsive driving experience” (Smith, 2021).

Which Toyota Camry comes with a V6?

The Toyota Camry TRD, XLE, and XSE trims have offered V6 engines in recent years, specifically on the 2017-2024 models. The TRD is the sportiest, coming standard with the V6, while the XLE and XSE have offered it as an available engine option. It's important to note that the all-new 2025 Camry no longer offers a V6 option, as Toyota has shifted its focus to hybrid powertrains.

This video reviews the 2023 Toyota Camry XLE V6: 25sToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Nov 11, 2022

Toyota Camry TRD: This trim comes standard with the V6, along with performance upgrades like sport-tuned suspension and larger brakes.
Toyota Camry XLE: This trim is available with the V6, offering a blend of performance and luxury.
Toyota Camry XSE: This trim has also offered the V6 engine as an option, providing a sporty and performance-oriented driving experience.

This video shows a POV test drive of a 2012 Camry with a V6 engine: 31sCanadian GearheadYouTube · Jun 28, 2024
Important note on the 2025+ models

The 2025 and newer Toyota Camry models do not have a V6 engine. Toyota has discontinued the V6 engine option, and the new models are only available with a hybrid powertrain.

Is a Toyota V6 better than a 4-cylinder?

A Toyota V6 is better than a 4-cylinder if you prioritize power, towing capacity, and a smoother, quieter ride, while a 4-cylinder is better if you prioritize fuel efficiency and potentially lower maintenance costs. The "better" choice depends on your needs, with the V6 offering more performance and the 4-cylinder offering greater efficiency.
This video compares the performance of a Toyota Tacoma with a 4-cylinder and V6 engine: 1mRealistickYouTube · Oct 18, 2022

Feature	Toyota V6	Toyota 4-Cylinder
Power & Performance	Higher horsepower and torque, better for acceleration and heavy loads	Adequate for daily driving, but less powerful
Towing & Hauling	Higher towing capacity	Limited towing capacity
Fuel Efficiency	Less fuel-efficient, requires more frequent refueling	More fuel-efficient, better for commuting
Ride Quality	Smoother and quieter ride, especially at highway speeds	Can have more vibration and feel less refined
Maintenance	May have higher maintenance costs due to more complex components	Often simpler and easier to service

You need more power for tasks like towing or hauling.
You prefer a smoother, quieter, and more powerful driving experience.
Your daily driving includes highway cruising where extra power is beneficial.

Choose the 4-cylinder if:

Fuel economy is your top priority.
Your driving needs are mostly for daily commuting, and heavy-duty work is rare.
You are looking for a lower initial purchase price and potentially lower maintenance costs over time.

How do I tell if my car is 4 or 6 cylinder?

You can tell if your car is a 4 or 6-cylinder by looking for an engine size sticker under the hood, counting the spark plug wires, checking the VIN on the driver's side door jamb, or looking at your car's registration or owner's manual.
This video explains how to identify your engine size: 1mMegaMilesBenYouTube · Nov 15, 2021
Methods to check under the hood
This video shows how to find the spark plugs in your engine: 59sHelpful DIYYouTube · Apr 3, 2021

Check for a sticker: Look for a sticker in the engine bay, often on the hood itself, radiator support, or firewall. It will typically list the engine size in liters, such as 2.5L2.5 cap L2.5𝐿 for a 4-cylinder or 3.5L3.5 cap L3.5𝐿 for a 6-cylinder.
Count spark plug wires or ignition coils:
- A 4-cylinder engine will have 4 spark plug wires or ignition coils. In an inline-4, they are often in a straight line.
- A V6 engine will have 6 spark plug wires or ignition coils. These are typically arranged in two banks of three, forming a "V" shape.
Look for an engine cover: Many modern cars have a plastic engine cover on top of the engine. Check this cover for a "V6" badge or a displacement size that might indicate the cylinder count.

Other ways to find the information

Check the VIN: The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be decoded to find your car's engine specifications. You can find the VIN on a sticker on the driver's side door jamb or the corner of the windshield.
Look at your paperwork: The engine type is listed on your car's registration, title, and insurance documents.
Consult the owner's manual: Your car's owner's manual contains detailed information about your vehicle's specifications, including the engine type.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.