Introduction
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan, introduced as a compact vehicle in the early 1980s. It's the best-selling passenger car in North America, and its seventh generation was introduced in the 2012 model year. Changes included a dramatic interior refresh, an enhanced suspension for improved ride and handling dynamics, and safety upgrades. For 2013, the Camry is available in four trim levels: base L, LE, SE, and XLE. Hybrid models come in LE or XLE trim. All trim levels employ front-wheel drive, with a standard 4-cylinder engine or an available V-6 engine, or a hybrid powertrain. The 2013 model carries over from the previous year with a few upgrades, including a 6.1-inch touch screen for the audio system now standard on all models. Also, cross-traffic alert capability has been added to the optional blind-spot monitor.
Exterior Features
The 2013 Toyota Camry is offered in a choice of eight exterior colors, although not all colors are offered for all trim levels. Standard equipment includes color-keyed power outside mirrors and 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers. The SE trim level adds 17-inch alloy wheels, integrated front and rear underbody spoilers, sport side rocker panels, color-keyed rear spoiler, chrome-tipped exhaust, sport-tuned suspension, integrated fog lights, and heated outside mirrors. The Camry XLE adds a power tilt/slide sunroof.
Interior Features
Standard interior features on the Toyota Camry include seating for five, power windows with driver's auto up/down, air conditioning, cruise control, cloth upholstery, height-adjustable driver's seat, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, USB port with iPod connectivity and control, audio system with 6.1-inch touch-screen display, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. The SE trim level adds phone and audio controls to the steering wheel, plus intermittent wipers; automatic headlights; and two 12-volt power outlets. The Camry SEL adds a leather-trimmed tilt-and-telescopic sport steering wheel with paddle shifters; the Camry XLE adds dual-zone front automatic climate control with air filter, wood-grain-style interior accents, and 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Leather upholstery is offered on the upper trim levels. Trunk capacity is 15.4 cubic feet in conventional models, and 13.1 cubic feet in hybrid models.
Optional Features
Many of the upgrades offered on the upper trim levels are available as options on the lower trims. At the XLE level, the Convenience package includes a Smart Key system on front doors and trunk, push-button start, integrated backup camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink universal transceiver, and anti-theft system with alarm. The Leather package includes leather-trimmed multi-stage heated front seats with seatback pockets, 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, and 4-way power-adjustable front passenger seat. A blind-spot monitor and navigation system are other options. Available accessories include alloy wheel locks, body side moldings, paint protection film, rear spoiler, door edge guards, rear bumper appliqué, ashtray, door sill enhancements, glass breakage sensor, and cargo organizers.
Under the Hood
Toyota Camry models are fitted with one of three different engines. Base trim levels feature a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine delivering 178 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. of torque. An optional 3.5-liter V-6 engine generates 268 horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of torque. The Camry Hybrid features a 2.4-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor. All Camry models are front-wheel drive, and come with a 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift mode (with paddle shifters on Camry SE).
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 2013 Toyota Camry are:
- Camry with 4-cylinder engine: 25/35/28 mpg (city/highway/combined)
- Camry with V-6 engine: 21/31/25 mpg
- Camry Hybrid: 31/35/33 mpg
Safety
Standard safety features on the 2013 Toyota Camry include anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, and a complement of 10 air bags.
In government crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Toyota Camry received 4 (out of 5) stars for frontal crash protection; 5 stars for side-impact crash protection; and an overall rating of 5 stars. In tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Camry received "Good" ratings--the Institute's highest--for frontal-offset and side-impact protection, and for roof strength.
