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Which Camry engine is the best?

There isn’t a single best Camry engine; the ideal choice depends on what you value most: performance, fuel economy, or everyday practicality.

In this article we break down the Camry’s current powertrains—the 2.5-liter four-cylinder, the 3.5-liter V6, and the 2.5-liter hybrid—highlighting what each delivers in real-world driving, how they feel on the road, and who they’re best suited for. We also note any trade-offs and what to expect in recent model years.

The Camry powertrains at a glance

Before you decide, here’s a quick snapshot of the three engine options and what they bring to the table.

3.5L V6: about 301 horsepower, strong acceleration and confident highway response, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission; available on higher trims and known for brisk takeoffs.

2.5L Dynamic-Force four-cylinder: roughly 203 horsepower with 8-speed automatic; the workhorse for most Camry buyers, balancing performance and efficiency across most trims.

2.5L Hybrid: combined system output around 208 horsepower, using electric motors with the gas engine; delivers the best fuel economy and smooth, quiet operation, especially in city driving.

Bottom line: choose the V6 for performance, the Hybrid for efficiency, and the 4-cylinder for a balanced, cost-conscious choice.

Which Camry engine is best for you?

Best for performance and speed: the 3.5L V6

The 3.5-liter V6 delivers about 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, yielding strong off-the-line acceleration and confident highway merging. It’s typically found on upper-level trims and is the clear pick if you prioritize quick response and sporty driving dynamics. Fuel economy will be lower than the other two powertrains, but you gain notable straight-line performance and a more engaging feel behind the wheel.

Best for efficiency and low running costs: the Camry Hybrid

The Camry Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with electric motors to produce roughly 208 horsepower total. It offers the strongest fuel economy of the lineup and very quiet operation at low speeds, making it ideal for city commutes and long highway trips where efficiency matters more than raw speed. The hybrid’s acceleration is adequate for everyday driving but typically slower than the V6.

Best for overall value and daily practicality: the 2.5L gas four-cylinder

The 2.5-liter Dynamic-Force engine provides about 203 horsepower with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering a solid balance of performance, efficiency, and price. It’s the most common Camry powertrain and represents a practical choice for buyers who want dependable performance without paying extra for hybrid technology or the V6’s higher running costs.

Summary

In short, there isn’t a universally “best” Camry engine—the right pick depends on your priorities. If you want maximum speed and a more athletic feel, the 3.5L V6 is your best match. If you’re chasing top-tier efficiency and lower running costs, the Hybrid wins. If you want a balanced, cost-effective everyday driver, the 2.5L gas engine is the safest bet. All three powertrains offer Toyota reliability, with each catering to different driving habits and budget levels.

Other factors to consider include driving environment (city vs. highway), maintenance costs, and the availability of options such as all-wheel drive and trim levels, which can influence the overall value of each powertrain. Always consult the latest official Toyota specifications for your region, as engine outputs and options can shift with new model years.

Additional considerations and final thoughts

When shopping, think about your typical daily miles, charging access for the hybrid (if applicable), and how important performance is to you versus fuel economy. If you test-drive models with different powertrains, you’ll get a clearer sense of which engine best aligns with your needs.

Summary of core takeaways: for speed, choose the V6; for fuel economy, choose the Hybrid; for a balanced, practical daily driver, choose the 2.5L gas engine. Each option remains part of Toyota’s reliable Camry lineup, letting you tailor the car to your priorities.

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.

Which Toyota engine is most reliable?

The most reliable Toyota engines are generally considered to be the 22RE 2.4L 4-cylinder, the 2JZ-GTE 3.0L inline-six, and the 5VZ-FE 3.4L V6. The 22RE is praised for its simplicity and over-engineering, while the 2JZ-GTE is famous for its performance and durability. The 5VZ-FE is known for its robustness and long lifespan with minimal issues.
This video discusses the most reliable and unreliable Toyota engines: 56sSUV ZoneYouTube · Aug 13, 2025
Specific reliable engines

22RE 2.4L 4-cylinder: This engine from the 1980s and early 90s is celebrated for its over-engineered, simple design, resulting in exceptional durability.
2JZ-GTE 3.0L inline-six: Famous for its use in the 1993-2002 Supra, this turbocharged engine is known for being nearly indestructible, with some owners reporting over 500,000 miles.
5VZ-FE 3.4L V6: This engine, used in models like the Tacoma and 4Runner from 1995 to 2004, is frequently cited as one of the most reliable V6 engines ever made and can easily reach 300,000 to 500,000 miles.
UZ Series (1UZ, 2UZ, 3UZ) V8s: The V8 engines in the UZ series (used in models like the LS400, Land Cruiser, and 4Runner) are considered exceptionally reliable and robust, with documented million-mile stories for the 2UZ-FE V8.
Other reliable options: Other engines often mentioned for their reliability include the 3MZ-FE V6, the 2GR-FE V6, and the 1GR-FE V6.

This video discusses the 5VZ-FE V6 engine, known for its reliability: 34s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · May 15, 2025
Factors affecting reliability

Maintenance: Proper and consistent maintenance is crucial for any engine's longevity.
Driving habits: Driving styles can significantly impact an engine's lifespan.
Environmental conditions: The environment in which the vehicle is driven also plays a role.

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.

Which is better, Camry V6 or 4-cylinder?

A Camry with a V6 engine offers significantly more power (301301301 horsepower) and faster acceleration, making it ideal for performance and highway cruising, while the 4-cylinder engine (203−206203 minus 206203−206 horsepower) is more fuel-efficient and better suited for city driving. The V6 is also generally smoother and quieter, but it is more expensive to purchase and has lower fuel economy.
You can watch this video to compare the 2021 Camry 4-Cylinder vs V6 models: 54sToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Nov 17, 2020
V6 engine

Performance: Produces more horsepower (301301301 hp) and torque (267267267 lb-ft), resulting in quicker acceleration (0-60 mph in approximately 6.06.06.0 seconds for some models).
Driving feel: Offers a smoother and more responsive driving experience with less engine strain.
Cost: Typically has a higher purchase price.
Fuel economy: Lower fuel efficiency compared to the 4-cylinder model.

4-cylinder engine

Performance: Has less horsepower (203−206203 minus 206203−206 hp), which is sufficient for most driving but less powerful for high-speed acceleration.
Driving feel: Adequate for everyday driving, especially in the city, and provides a comfortable ride.
Cost: Lower initial cost.
Fuel economy: Better fuel efficiency, making it the more economical choice for gas.

This video compares the 2023 Camry V6 vs 4-cylinder models: 1mToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Nov 11, 2022
Which one should you choose?

Choose the V6 if: You prioritize performance, a more exciting driving experience, and highway cruising, and are willing to pay more at the dealership and at the pump.
Choose the 4-cylinder if: Fuel efficiency is a top priority, your driving is primarily in the city, or you want a lower-cost vehicle.

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.