Being the driver that I am, I generally like to enjoy the total experience when I drive a car: the acceleration, the interior comfort, the handling, and even the security of solid braking. Enter the 2007-2008 Toyota Camry CE: a nicely styled, roomy, and modern interpretation of the American Family Sedan. Comfort-wise, it feels good, it is easy to drive, but it’s the driving experience that leaves you begging for more in terms of overall driving pleasure.
Okay, I know the Camry CE is not supposed to be a sports sedan; it is meant to be a reliable, affordable family car that can haul a family in reasonable comfort. It does that just fine. The seats (both front and rear) are very comfortable and supportive, and passenger room is very good (front and rear), and should accommodate four to five people in reasonable comfort. It makes a good car for long trips. Trunk room is very good, and split-folding rear seats provide even more hauling flexibility.
The controls are well laid out and easy to use, making it generally easy for the driver to make basic climate and radio adjustments at a quick glance (the AM/FM stereo CD player had a good sound quality—there is even an MP3 player jack and an auxiliary mode to accommodate audiophiles who may want to bring their portable music player. The a/c and heat work very well, also. The climate controls knobs are large and very easy to use.
The driving experience is unexciting, but then again, it's not meant to be. The 2.4 liter, 158 hp four-cylinder engines sprints quickly from a standstill and works well with the five-speed automatic transmission, but mid-range power between 40-60 mph is somewhat weak, and needs extra coaxing to achieve maximum acceleration. The more powerful V6 option would be a better choice for those who would sacrifice fuel economy for more power.
Speaking of fuel economy, it’s decent—as long as you don’t drive with a lead foot. I averaged 18-21 mpg in the city and 23-29 on the highway, depending on my driving habits. The Camry’s braking is good (this car is equipped with anti-lock brakes) and secure with a fair amount of nosedive; as far as handling goes, it does its job adequately, with a bit more body lean that I would like. The ride is soft and comfortable, but I would prefer the suspension to be firmer. The steering could provide a bit more feedback to the driver, as well. Safety-wise, anti-lock brakes and a full array of air bags (including side-curtain, as well as a driver’s knee air bag) are included to enhance the safety of the Camry.
Nevertheless, the Toyota Camry is not meant to be a sporty car—just an affordable, reliable, economical, good-looking family sedan to haul families around in reasonable comfort. The Camry accomplishes those tasks very well.
The Car Exam Grade: B
Written by P. Scott
Photos by P. Scott (Copyright 2008)
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