This may seem like a no-brainer: build what people want and they will buy it. But the downside is that the Camry has sold well only in the U.S. Still, it's been America's best selling car for nine of the past 10 years.
What a difference a decade can make. Previous Camry models are among the most boring family transportation appliances we've driven. While the current model is still intended to fill the same purpose, even the SE V6 model with Sport Suspension we drove is more capable and interesting than we expected.
Acceleration is immediately noticeable. The 3.5L V6 engine generates 268 hp at 6,200 rpm and 248 foot-pounds of torque at 4,700 rpm. Variable-valve timing on both camshafts makes the torque curve satisfying right off idle, so the car pops up to speed quickly. Handling is not up to European standards, but is more capable than before.
Our test car had the 6-speed automatic transmission with "sequential shift," but that's a misnomer. Shifting manually merely prevents the transmission from shifting above the selected gear, just like any other automatic. The brakes are clearly not designed for the Autobahn, but "spirited" rural driving is no problem. All in all, the new Camry feels less like an appliance and more like a capable, up-to-date transportation tool.
Other testers have quibbled about the quality of the interior materials, but our biggest gripe is with the seats and the roofline. Even with the seats adjusted all the way down, this car is tight for anyone taller than 5-foot-10.
Unlike earlier models, the rear seats don't fold down to extend the trunk space (although there is small pass-through between the rear seatbacks). For us, this spoiled an otherwise likable interior and, market research or no, we're surprised that Toyota chose this design.
Above all else, the Camry always has been known as a safe and comfortable car that will deliver years of reliable service with nothing more than basic maintenance. We expect nothing less from this model. But just because it's a family car that hits its target market, that doesn't mean there isn't a healthy aftermarket.
The Camry's longevity and reliability make it popular with younger buyers in the used-car market. Those younger second owners are more likely to customize their rides. Even for this latest model, there's already a wide choice of wheels, sound systems and special lighting and appearance parts. More serious options include performance exhaust systems, cold-air intake kits and suspension lowering kits. Toyota's own TRD aftermarket division offers a long list of boutique items, plus 18-inch wheels, sound system upgrades, satellite radio, a remote engine-start kit and a rear spoiler kit.
The retail price of the most expensive 2008 Camry is $28,120 without options. With a solid reputation for value, reliability and market appeal, plus the Camry's newly found driving capabilities, we expect Toyota will sell all it can make.
