Toyota Camry XV50

Camry at a glance

Produced since 1982, the Camry is one of the world's best-selling sedans, particularly in the US. In Western Europe, it was replaced by the Avensis in 2004, though it continued to be sold in several other markets. It returned to the wider European market in 2019 — exclusively as a hybrid.

The Camry is prized for its spacious cabin (especially in the rear), smooth ride and Toyota reliability. Most models are front-wheel drive, and newer generations are built exclusively as sedans. On the Lithuanian used car market, a significant number of Camrys are imports from the US.

Which generation to choose

The seventh generation (XV50, 2011–2017) is straightforward, reliable and spacious. It is available with 2.0, 2.5 and 3.5 V6 engines, while US-market cars also offered a hybrid variant. It received a substantial facelift around 2014.

The eighth generation (XV70, 2017–2024) is built on the TNGA platform: it sits lower, handles better and is quieter. In Europe, it was sold exclusively as the 2.5 Hybrid, whereas the US market also received a 2.5-litre petrol engine and a 3.5 V6. A 2021 refresh brought a new front fascia and a larger infotainment screen.

The ninth generation (XV80, from 2024) is technically closely related to the XV70, but all versions are now hybrids, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Such cars are still rare on the used market.

Engines and gearboxes

In the XV50 generation, the most common engines are the 2.5-litre petrol (around 180 hp) and the 3.5 V6 (around 250–270 hp, depending on the market), with the 2.0-litre (around 150 hp) being much rarer. Petrol engines are typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

European XV70 models feature the 2.5 hybrid system (around 218 hp) mated to an e-CVT transmission. US-market Camrys come with a 2.5-litre petrol engine (around 205 hp) and an 8-speed automatic, a 3.5 V6 (around 300 hp), or as a hybrid. The XV80 generation retains only the 2.5 hybrid system (over 220 hp).

The hybrid Camry has no conventional clutch or starter motor, and Toyota's hybrid transaxle is known for exceptional durability — one of the reasons why these cars are favoured by taxi drivers worldwide.

What to check when buying a used Camry

Always check the vehicle history of US imports using the VIN: many have been involved in accidents or flood damage. Pay attention to resprayed panels, uneven body gaps and the airbag warning light.

On hybrids, inquire about the state of the hybrid battery and whether its cooling fan has been cleaned — a clogged fan or filter is detrimental to battery health. During the test drive, the car should pull away smoothly on electric power, and the transition to the petrol engine should be barely perceptible.

Earlier XV40 generation (2006–2011) Camrys with the 2.4 engine were prone to high oil consumption in some cases — ask how frequently oil needs to be topped up. In all cases, verify the mileage using service records: some Camrys saw duty as taxis and could have very high mileage.

Trim levels

Because the Lithuanian market features both European and US-import Camrys, we have outlined the most common XV70 trim levels for both regions. European trim names vary by country.

Comparison of XV70 US trim levels

For most buyers, the best choice is the LE or XLE with the hybrid powertrain: economical and reliable. The SE and XSE are chosen by those who prefer a sportier look, while the 3.5 V6 appeals to those who care more about power than fuel economy.

Frequently asked questions