What year Camry is the best?
There isn't a single “best” Camry year; for most buyers the sweet spot depends on priorities. The latest model year offers the newest safety tech and the longest warranty, while a late-model used year such as 2015–2017 often provides strong reliability at a lower price.
This article explains how to judge Camry years based on safety features, reliability history, and value trends, and highlights representative years to consider for different goals. As of 2024, the Camry sits in its eighth generation (started in 2018) with ongoing refinements to safety, efficiency, and technology.
Why year matters in a Camry hunt
The year a Camry was made roughly tracks the level of technology, safety equipment, and refinement you’ll get, as well as the expected maintenance costs and resale value. Newer models tend to offer more advanced driver-assistance features, improved infotainment, and better fuel economy, while well-chosen used years can deliver a strong balance of price and reliability.
Best recent Camry years (2018–present) for safety, tech, and efficiency
The current eighth-generation Camry began in 2018 and has seen steady updates that emphasize safety, efficiency, and interior quality. Consider these years if you want modern features and peace of mind from newer engineering.
- 2018 Camry — All-new eighth generation with improved ride, space, and a robust suite of safety features; strong base engine options and updated interior tech.
- 2020 Camry Hybrid — Hybrid models gain practical efficiency with solid performance, making it a popular choice for daily driving and long-term ownership.
- 2022–2023 Camry — Mid-cycle refinements that enhance technology and comfort, with ongoing improvements to driver assists and infotainment options.
Choosing one of these years generally yields the newest safety tech, better warranty coverage, and the longest expected lifespan from a modern Camry.
Best used-value Camry years (to buy used today)
If you’re shopping for a used Camry, years from the mid-2010s offer a strong balance of price, features, and reliability without stepping too far back into older design drawbacks.
- 2015 Camry — A solid stretch of value with reliable performance, comfortable ride, and updated styling for the mid-2010s Camry design.
- 2016 Camry — Similar value to 2015 with incremental updates and a broad feature set at a reasonable price point.
- 2017 Camry — Last year of the prior generation before the 2018 redesign; often found with lower miles and good equipment at a favorable price.
These years are commonly recommended for budget-conscious buyers who still want modern conveniences and dependable Toyota reliability.
Notes on reliability and safety across Camry years
Toyota Camry reliability has historically been strong across generations, with certain late-model used years offering great value due to depreciation and feature sets. If you’re buying used, prioritize a full service history, a clean maintenance record, and a pre-purchase inspection. For safety, newer generations tend to include more advanced driver-assistance systems as standard or optional equipment, which can influence long-term protection and resale value.
How to choose the best Camry year for you
To pick the best year for your needs, weigh these factors: budget, desire for latest safety tech, planned ownership duration, and preferred features (such as infotainment or interior comfort). Test drives and vehicle history reports are essential to confirm condition, regardless of year.
Summary
There isn’t a single universally “best” Camry year. If you want the newest safety tech and warranty coverage, look at 2018–present models, with 2020 and beyond offering strong hybrid options and refinements. If you’re prioritizing value on a used car, the 2015–2017 window often provides solid reliability at a lower price. Your choice should align with your budget, technology needs, and how long you plan to own the car.
