Is Camry 2023 worth buying?

Yes — for many buyers, the 2023 Camry remains a solid value due to reliability, a comfortable ride, and efficient powertrains. The decision hinges on priorities like fuel economy, performance, and feature level.

This article examines why the 2023 Camry appeals, what you get with its different trims and engines, and what trade-offs to consider before you buy. It also compares typical ownership costs and how the Camry stacks up against key rivals in the midsize sedan segment.

Overview and value proposition

The 2023 Camry continues Toyota’s emphasis on longevity, straightforward ownership, and practical comfort. It offers a choice of efficient powertrains, modern safety tech, and a roomy cabin, making it a popular pick for daily commuting, family duties, and long highway trips. Whether you’re drawn to fuel economy, performance, or a balanced middle ground, the Camry provides options across a broad price range.

Here are the reasons buyers typically consider the Camry 2023 across trims:

• Proven reliability and strong resale value


• Comfortable ride with ample interior space


• Excellent fuel efficiency in hybrid form


• Wide trim availability from practical to performance-oriented


• Robust safety features and driver-assistance tech

In summary, these factors contribute to the Camry’s appeal for a wide audience, though individual needs—such as sportier driving feel or more premium interior materials—will steer people toward particular trims.

Performance options and driving dynamics

Understanding the Camry’s powertrain lineup helps shoppers match the car to their driving style. The 2023 Camry offers a blend of efficiency and capability, with a traditional gas engine, a hybrid, and a performance-oriented V6 in specific trims.

Before reviewing the engine options, note that performance can influence fuel costs, acceleration, and driving feel. The following options illustrate the spectrum you’ll find in the Camry lineup:

• 2.5-liter four-cylinder (non-hybrid): around 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It delivers solid everyday performance and better highway mileage than most rivals in this class.


• 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid: combined around 208 hp, with excellent fuel economy (typically in the mid-40s mpg city/highway). Great for long commutes or budget-conscious buyers who want to minimize fuel costs.


• 3.5-liter V6 (TRD and some XSE/XLE configurations): about 301 hp with a more spirited throttle response and confident passing power, but lower fuel economy and higher maintenance expectations compared with the four-cylinder options.

These choices translate to a Camry that’s comfortable and refined at everyday speeds, with a clear choice between efficiency-minded and performance-oriented models. For most buyers, the gas four or the hybrid hits the sweet spot between cost of ownership and drivability.

Practical considerations before buying

Beyond powertrains, several real-world factors influence whether the 2023 Camry is the right car for you. If you’re weighing a purchase, consider ownership costs, cabin space, technology, and how the car fits your daily routine.

Here are important practical considerations to weigh:

• Purchase price and total cost of ownership, including insurance and depreciation


• Interior space and cargo practicality for your needs


• Infotainment and driver-assistance features, including compatibility with smartphones


• Ride comfort and noise levels on highways, especially for long trips


• Warranty coverage and maintenance expectations, particularly on higher-trim or hybrid models

Bottom line: the Camry offers predictable ownership costs and a comfortable, quiet cabin, but trends in fuel economy and tech features vary by trim. Aligning the trim with your priorities helps you maximize value.

Who should consider the 2023 Camry?

— Commuters who want strong reliability and good fuel economy, especially with the hybrid powertrain.

— Small families needing a spacious trunk, rear-seat space, and solid safety technology.

— Buyers seeking a balanced blend of comfort and practicality without paying premium luxury prices.

— Enthusiasts who want a hotter option in the lineup, such as the TRD’s V6 performance, for occasional spirited driving.

— Shoppers comparing mid-size sedans against rivals like the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia K5, where the Camry typically trades on reliability and resale value.

Summary

The 2023 Toyota Camry remains a strong, well-rounded choice in the midsize sedan segment. If maximizing fuel economy, comfort, and long-term reliability matters most, the Camry—especially the hybrid or mid-range trims—delivers compelling value. If you crave raw speed or premium interior materials, you’ll want to weigh the V6/TRD option or compare against some rivals that push more on luxury or handling. Overall, for a broad set of daily needs, the Camry continues to be a pragmatic and dependable buy.

What are the cons of the 2023 Camry?

Noises/Leaks. Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

How long will a 2023 Camry last?

A 2023 Toyota Camry can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles, or about 20 to 25 years, with proper care and regular maintenance. Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule is crucial for achieving this longevity and ensuring the car remains a dependable vehicle for many years to come.
 
Factors that influence a Camry's life expectancy

• Regular Maintenance: Adhering to the maintenance schedule for oil changes, fluid flushes, and other services is the most important factor in achieving a long lifespan.
• Addressing Repairs Promptly: Fixing small issues as they arise can prevent them from becoming larger, more costly problems that impact the overall health of the vehicle.
• Smooth Driving: Driving habits play a role. Avoiding aggressive acceleration and braking can reduce wear and tear on the car's components.
• Low Mileage: A lower annual mileage, when combined with proper maintenance, will naturally extend the life of the vehicle. 

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.

Is 2023 a good year for a Toyota Camry?

The 2023 Toyota Camry generally receives positive reviews for its comfortable ride, spacious and user-friendly interior, strong reliability, and fuel efficiency, especially in the hybrid model. However, some drawbacks include a dated infotainment system, a base engine that can feel underpowered, and engine noise on the hybrid model. 
Positives

• Comfort: The ride is smooth and comfortable, with supportive front seats and ample rear-seat space. The SE and XSE trims offer a sportier feel without significantly sacrificing ride quality. 
• Reliability: The Camry has a strong reputation for reliability and longevity, with many owners citing this as a key reason for purchase. 
• Fuel Efficiency: The hybrid version offers impressive MPG, with some owners reporting even better mileage than EPA estimates. The gas-only model is also reasonably efficient. 
• Safety: The Camry has earned top safety ratings, including a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS. 
• Interior Space: The cabin is spacious for both front and rear passengers, and the trunk is notably large. 
• Handling: Even the non-sport models handle well, and the AWD option is praised for its performance in various conditions. 

Negatives

• Infotainment: While user-friendly, the infotainment system's graphics, resolution, and responsiveness are considered dated for a 2023 model. 
• Engine Noise: Some owners have reported engine noise, particularly on the hybrid's CVT transmission. 
• Performance: The base engine can feel a bit underpowered, though the V6 and hybrid options provide stronger acceleration. The hybrid's brakes can also feel spongy. 

This video provides a detailed review of the 2023 Toyota Camry, including its design and features: 1mRealistickYouTube · Dec 31, 2022