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What is the difference between the different Toyota Camry models?

The Camry lineup is defined by your choice of powertrain, drivetrain and the level of equipment that comes with each trim. In 2024–2025, Toyota offers gas-powered trims with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (and a 3.5-liter V6 on higher, performance-oriented models), plus a full hybrid line that pairs a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors for higher efficiency. All-wheel drive is available on several trims, and the higher trims add sportier styling and more luxury features.

Beyond powertrains, the Camry’s model names signal the equipment and character you get. The L/LE trims emphasize value, SE trims lean sportier, and XLE/XSE trims focus on luxury with upgraded comfort and technology. Hybrid variants (LE Hybrid, SE Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, XSE Hybrid) share the hybrid drivetrain but differ in interior materials, features, and appearance. The overall decision often boils down to how you prioritize fuel economy, performance, and equipment levels.

Core powertrain families

Here is how the main Camry powertrains are organized across the lineup.

Gas non-hybrid Camry: 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive is standard, with optional all-wheel drive on select trims; performance ranges modest with good daily usability and fuel economy in the upper 20s to upper 30s mpg depending on configuration.

Gas V6 Camry: 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering stronger psi (around 300 hp) on higher trims; typically paired with an 8-speed automatic and mostly front-wheel drive, offering brisk acceleration for a mid-size sedan; fuel economy is lower than the four-cylinder options.

Hybrid Camry: 2.5-liter engine paired with electric motors, using an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT); available with front-wheel drive or, in some trims, with optional all-wheel drive; designed for higher overall efficiency with fuel economy in the mid-40s mpg combined.

In short, choosing a powertrain changes performance, efficiency and the choice of drive wheels. If you prioritize fuel economy, the Hybrid is the clear choice; if you want maximum straight-line power, a V6 on a higher trim is the route; for everyday practicality, the base gas four-cylinder covers most needs.

Model trims and what they bring

The Camry’s trim ladder moves from value-focused to luxo-sport, with each step adding equipment and styling changes. The following outlines typical features you’ll encounter across the main trims and their hybrid counterparts.

L trim (base): Essential features, durable cloth seating, standard infotainment, and baseline driver assists; entry price point for a Camry with the core drivetrain.

LE trim: Adds more comfort and convenience features (upgraded upholstery or fabric, enhanced infotainment, and safety tech) and sometimes minor exterior styling cues; still focused on value.

SE trim: Sport-oriented enhancements such as a stiffer suspension, sport styling cues, larger wheels, and often upgraded interior trim; prioritizes a more engaging drive feel without sacrificing everyday practicality.

XLE trim: Luxury-focused, with higher-grade interior materials, leather seating on many models, more comfort features, and expanded tech packages; emphasizes comfort and refinement.

XSE trim: Combines sport styling with luxury content; more aggressive exterior design, larger wheels, and premium interior touches, designed for a dynamic feel with upscale comfort.

Hybrid variants (LE Hybrid, SE Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, XSE Hybrid): Share the same trim hierarchy as their gas counterparts but swap in the hybrid powertrain; differences across Hybrid trims mirror the gas trims, with Hybrid badges, unique interior materials, and hybrid-specific tuning and efficiency.

Overall, the trim you pick determines the balance between price, comfort, technology and driving character. If you want strong daily usability with high value, LE or SE with gas powertrains are common picks; if you prefer luxury and quiet ride, XLE or XSE hybrids or gas versions fit well.

Drivetrain options and efficiency considerations

Different Camry variants offer distinct drivetrain configurations and efficiency outcomes. This section highlights how those choices typically map to real-world usage.

All-wheel drive availability: Several gas trims offer optional AWD, which can improve traction in adverse weather; the hybrid lineup also provides AWD on select models, though availability varies by year and trim.

Transmission differences: Gas Camrys use an 8-speed automatic transmission, while Hybrid Camrys use an electronic CVT-style setup paired with the electric motor to optimize efficiency.

Fuel efficiency range: Non-hybrid gas Camrys typically sit in the upper 20s to upper 30s mpg, depending on engine and drivetrain; Hybrid models push into the mid-40s mpg combined, offering the best efficiency in the lineup; V6 versions trade some efficiency for power.

Performance vs. economy trade-offs: If you prioritize acceleration and highway performance, higher trims with the V6 or sport-tuned SE/XSE styling deliver stronger response; if you want best economy, the Hybrid trims are the best option.

Because availability can change by model year and market, it’s wise to verify the exact drivetrain and features at your local dealer for the specific Camry you’re considering.

Choosing the right Camry for you

To pick the Camry that fits your needs, consider how you use the car day-to-day, your fuel priorities, and how important features like driver assists, interior quality, and audio systems are to you.

Prioritize fuel economy? Look at Hybrid trims (LE Hybrid, SE Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, XSE Hybrid) for the best efficiency, while recognizing some extra price and battery considerations.

Want sportier handling or a more aggressive look? Consider SE or XSE, including their hybrid versions if you want performance with efficiency.

Want luxury and comfort? XLE and XSE trims offer upgraded interiors and tech; for maximum luxury, choose XLE/XSE with the right packages.

All-weather capability? If you live in a climate with rain or snow, check which gas or hybrid trims offer AWD and confirm the availability in your region.

Test drives across the trims you’re considering are the best way to gauge seat comfort, visibility, and how the powertrain feels in everyday driving. Confirm current features and availability with your local Toyota dealer, as equipment and options can change by model year.

Summary

The Camry lineup centers on three axes: powertrain (gas four-cylinder, V6, or hybrid), drivetrain (FWD with optional AWD on many trims), and features (from value-focused L/LE to luxury-oriented XLE and the sportier SE/XSE). Hybrids offer the best efficiency, gas trims deliver a balance of performance and value, and the higher trims add comfort and technology. Your best choice depends on how you prioritize daily usability, fuel economy, and driving excitement.

What are the differences between Camry models?

What's the difference between the Toyota Camry LE and XLE? The Toyota Camry XLE and XSE are upgraded versions of the LE and SE, offering a larger interior multimedia touchscreen, leather-trimmed interior, larger wheels, and more dramatic exterior styling.

Which model of Toyota Camry is best?

The "best" Toyota Camry depends on your priorities, but the 2025 model is a top contender as a modern, hybrid-only vehicle with high safety ratings. For a balance of modern features and reliability in a used car, the 2015-2017 models are excellent choices, especially the 2013, while the 2001 is a historically reliable, no-frills option.

This video discusses the 2025 Toyota Camry's features and reliability: 58sKirk KreifelsYouTube · Aug 8, 2025
For modern features and safety

2025 Camry: This all-new model is exclusively a full hybrid and praised for its modern technology and excellent safety ratings, including the Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a 5-Star overall rating from the NHTSA.

For a balance of modern and reliable used cars

2015–2017 Camrys: These model years are often recommended for balancing modern technology with solid mechanical reliability and fewer complex systems than the newest models.
2013 Camry: Specifically highlighted as a very reliable year with strong fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride, it also has minimal recalls and issues.

For proven, long-term reliability

2001 Camry: A standout from the 4th generation, this model year is known for its exceptional reliability, with very few recalls on record.
7th Generation (2012-2017): As a whole, this generation is considered one of the most reliable, with low complaint numbers across the model years.

What to watch out for

2007–2009 models: Be cautious of these years, especially the V6 engines, as they are known for issues with excessive oil consumption.
2018 model: This year had a higher number of recalls compared to others in its generation, so check for service history.

Is Camry SE or XLE better?

The main differences are that the Camry SE focuses on a sportier, more performance-oriented experience, while the XLE prioritizes luxury, comfort, and advanced tech. The XLE typically includes premium features like a leather-and-microfiber interior, heated front seats, a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a fully digital gauge cluster that are standard or optional on the SE. The SE has sportier styling cues like a sport mesh grille and often includes a sport-tuned suspension.

Feature	SE	XLE
Focus	Sporty, performance-oriented	Luxury, comfort, and tech
Interior	SofTex synthetic leather with cloth inserts	Leather and microfiber-trimmed
Heated Front Seats	Available as an option	Standard
Ventilated Front Seats	Not available	Available as an option
Infotainment Screen	Standard 7-inch or optional 12.3-inch	Standard 12.3-inch
Gauge Cluster	Standard 7-inch or 4.2-inch MID	Fully digital 12.3-inch
Exterior	Black sport mesh grille, sport-tuned suspension, optional dual-tip exhaust	Dark gray bar grille, chrome window trim, and a quieter ride
Wheels	18-inch alloy	18-inch two-tone alloy
Headlights	Standard LED	Dual LED projector headlights

You prefer a sportier feel and appearance, including a sport-tuned suspension and design cues like the sport mesh grille and dual-tip exhaust.
You want to keep costs lower, as the SE is typically less expensive than the XLE.
You don't need the premium comfort and luxury features of the XLE.

When to choose the XLE

You prioritize a more comfortable and luxurious driving experience, with features like heated and available ventilated front seats.
You want the larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen and fully digital gauge cluster as standard features.
You prefer a smoother, more quiet ride, which includes noise-canceling front side windows.
You want more premium exterior touches like chrome window trim and dual LED projector headlights.

0:41Camry LE VS XLE | Worth the $5K Upgrade?YouTubeWilliams Auto Group · 4mo 0:562025 Toyota Camry XSE vs XLE: Which Trim is Right for You?InstagramVagabond Builds · 4mo 1:292025 Toyota Camry XSE vs XLE: Interior & ExteriorTikToktoyotajeffreviews · 1y (function(){
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What are the different models of Toyota Camry?

The Toyota Camry is available in several trim levels, including the LE, SE, XLE, and XSE, with the SE and XLE having sporty and luxury-focused versions, respectively. Recent models are exclusively hybrid, offering different features and performance options depending on the trim level. Historical models also include variations like the TRD and different generations that span across various years.

You can watch this video to learn about the evolution of Toyota Camry: 1mAUTOFANYouTube · Nov 20, 2023
Modern models (2021-present)

LE: The base trim, offering a comfortable ride and standard features.
SE: A sportier trim with a sport-tuned suspension, a mesh grille, and unique black wheels.
XLE: A more upscale trim that includes features like leather and microfiber seating, and a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen.
XSE: A sportier version of the XLE, combining the features of the XLE with sportier styling elements.
TRD: A high-performance trim with a V6 engine, tuned suspension, and other sport-oriented features.

Hybrid and other models

Hybrid: Recent Camry models come with an all-hybrid powertrain. This option is available on many trim levels.
Nightshade: A special edition based on the SE trim with unique blacked-out trim and wheels.

Historical models

The Camry has gone through many generations since its debut, with each generation offering different variations and features. Some notable examples include the 2011 Camry, which was available in four trim levels (Base, LE, SE, and XLE), and the 2021 model, which was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture platform and offered a wider stance and low center of gravity.

Kevin Bennett

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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.