Which year of Toyota Camry is the best?
Most buyers and reviewers consider the 2012–2017 Camry, the seventh-generation model, to be the best overall for reliability, comfort, and value.
This article explains why that window stands out, how the different Camry generations compare, and how to choose a specific year based on your priorities and budget.
Key factors that define the best Camry year
To determine which year is best, buyers weigh several practical factors that affect ownership over time. The following considerations help explain why some years are favored over others.
- Reliability and maintenance costs
- Resale value and total cost of ownership
- Safety features and crash-test performance
- Ride quality, interior comfort, and noise levels
- Availability of modern tech and driver-assistance features
In practice, years that excel on durability, inexpensive upkeep, strong safety ratings, and comfortable daily driving tend to be the ones buyers and critics point to as the best overall choices.
Best years by generation
Here is a generation-by-generation snapshot of when each Camry year window tends to be strongest, and what to watch in each window.
- 2012–2017 (7th generation): The most widely recommended window for long-term reliability, solid fuel economy, and strong resale. These cars strike a balance between older, affordable used examples and newer features introduced in later generations.
- 2018–2023 (8th generation): A strong upgrade in interior quality, tech, and safety equipment. These Camrys offer modern conveniences and improved ride comfort, though higher initial costs and some early infotainment updates are considerations.
- 2024–present (9th generation): The newest Camry, with fresh styling, latest driver-assistance tech, and updated powertrains. Long-term reliability data is still developing, but it represents the best-in-class for new-car ownership and feature sets.
- 2007–2011 (6th generation): Known for solid mechanicals and durable performance at a lower used-car price, making them appealing for budget-conscious buyers who want a proven Toyota.
- 2002–2006 (5th generation): Noted for reliable operation and good value in the used market, with straightforward maintenance and reasonable running costs.
- 1997–2001 (4th generation): Builds on strong reliability from the era, though older design and fewer safety features mean this window is mainly for buyers seeking low upfront cost and willing to accept tech compromises.
- 1992–1996 (3rd generation): An era with strong basic reliability, but with aging platforms and higher wear risk in today’s market. Best only if you’re optimizing for price and don’t require modern safety tech.
Individual model history and regional maintenance trends can shift these recommendations. If you’re buying used, prioritize a well-documented service history and a pre-purchase inspection.
Buying tips for selecting a Camry year
Before pulling the trigger on a Camry, use these practical steps to steer toward the best specific year and vehicle for you.
- Check maintenance records and verify the car’s service history, including timing belt/chain replacement (where applicable), fluid changes, and major service milestones.
- Look for recall repairs and confirm that open recalls have been addressed by a dealer or qualified shop.
- Inspect the engine, transmission, brakes, steering, and suspension for wear, abnormal noises, or vibrations, especially on higher-mileage examples.
- Assess exterior and underbody rust risk, especially on older generations and vehicles from harsher climates.
- Estimate total ownership costs, including insurance, fuel economy, maintenance, and depreciation, to gauge value over time.
Following these steps helps ensure you land a Camry year that meets reliability expectations while staying within budget.
Safety and tech: what you get by year
Different Camry years offer varying levels of safety tech and connectivity. Here is a quick guide to what to expect by generation and year window.
- 2012–2017: Solid baseline safety features with improved crash-test performance; available adaptive cruise control and Bluetooth/USB audio in many trims.
- 2018–2023: Expanded standard safety suites (Toyota Safety Sense) on more trims, upgraded infotainment options, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto availability across more models.
- 2024–present: Cutting-edge driver-assistance technologies as standard or widely available, plus refreshed interiors, larger touchscreens, and more digital features.
Newer generations bring stronger safety nets and more seamless connectivity, but buyers should balance these benefits against price and potential first-year software quirks.
Summary
In general, the best Camry year for most buyers is 2012–2017 due to proven reliability, strong value, and a mature set of features. If you prioritize the latest tech and safety, 2018–2023 or 2024–present models are attractive, though they come with higher purchase prices and newer-design risks. Ultimately, the best year depends on your budget, tolerance for older tech, and willingness to compromise on features for reliability. A well-maintained example from any strong generation can serve well for many years.
