What year did Toyota Camry get AWD?
The Camry first gained factory all-wheel drive in the United States with the 2012 model year. Since then, AWD has been offered on several trims and, in some markets and configurations, on hybrid models as well. This article traces the key dates and what buyers should know today.
The year AWD first arrived for the Camry
The 2012 Camry marked the debut of factory all-wheel drive in the U.S. lineup. Initially, the AWD option was available on select four-cylinder models, expanding the sedan’s appeal to buyers seeking better traction without moving to a different body style. The V6 option did not receive AWD at that time, and availability varied by trim.
How the AWD system appeared in model information
When Toyota introduced AWD for the Camry in 2012, the system typically used an intelligent coupling to distribute torque to the rear axle as needed. This was presented as an add‑on option rather than a standard feature, with the approach designed to preserve fuel efficiency when AWD was not required.
Expanding AWD across the Camry lineup in subsequent years
After its initial introduction, Toyota gradually broadened AWD availability to more trims and, in some markets, to hybrid configurations. Model-year details vary by region and generation, so buyers should consult the official brochure or dealer for their specific car’s configuration.
Below is a quick timeline of AWD availability by model year and variant.
- The 2012 Camry introduced factory all-wheel drive on select four-cylinder models in the U.S. market.
- In the following years, the AWD option was extended to additional trims and, in certain markets, applied to some hybrid variants using Toyota’s AWD-e system.
- As the Camry evolved into newer generations, AWD remained available on multiple trims in the U.S., with regional and model-year variations in exact availability.
In summary, the first Camry with factory AWD arrived in 2012, and the option has been expanded over time to accommodate more trims and, in some markets, hybrid versions. Always verify the exact drivetrain on a specific car or model year when shopping.
What buyers should know about Camry AWD today
Today, prospective Camry buyers considering AWD should weigh the following factors. The list reflects typical considerations across model years and regions, and exact specifications can differ by market and trim.
- Pros: Improved traction in rain, light snow, and slippery conditions; potential resale appeal for buyers in AWD-preferred markets.
- Cons: Higher upfront price, modest fuel economy penalty compared with front-wheel-drive models, and added complexity in maintenance.
- Regional availability: AWD may be offered on different trims depending on the model year and country; always confirm the exact configuration with a dealer or official brochure.
For buyers who live in areas with winter weather or variable road conditions, the Camry’s AWD option—first introduced in 2012—can be a meaningful upgrade, especially when paired with appropriate tires and careful driving habits.
Summary
The Toyota Camry first gained all-wheel drive in the 2012 model year in the United States. Since then, AWD has appeared across more trims and, in some markets, on hybrid versions as well. Prospective buyers should confirm the exact drivetrain for their target model year and trim, as availability has varied over time.
