Toyota Camry Review | Sedan Features | Hybrid Option | Price in Australia

Few names in the automotive world carry the kind of weight that the Toyota Camry does. In Australia, the Camry has built a reputation for reliability, comfort, and affordability across decades. While SUVs dominate the current market, the Camry still stands tall as one of the most popular sedans available, thanks largely to Toyota’s hybrid technology and practical design.

This review dives deep into everything Australian drivers need to know about the Camry—its design, hybrid option, technology, interior comfort, safety, pricing, and how it stacks up against rivals in 2025.

Toyota Camry in Australia: A Legacy of Trust

The Camry has been a household name in Australia since the late 1980s. For years, it was locally built in Altona, Victoria, before production shifted to Japan. Despite no longer being Australian-made, the Camry retains its strong market position, especially in fleets, government contracts, and private ownership.

For 2025, Toyota continues refining the Camry formula—balancing everyday affordability with touches of sophistication and eco-friendly technology. With hybrid models making up the bulk of Camry sales in Australia, it’s clear this sedan isn’t just surviving in an SUV-dominated era—it’s thriving.

Exterior Design: Subtle Elegance with a Modern Edge

The Camry’s design has matured over the years. Unlike sportier sedans like the Mazda6 or premium rivals like the BMW 3 Series, Toyota leans toward understated sophistication.

• Front Fascia: A sleek grille, sharp LED headlights, and sculpted bumper give the Camry a confident look without being overly aggressive.
• Profile: The long wheelbase enhances cabin space, while clean lines make it aerodynamic and elegant.
• Rear End: Wraparound taillights and subtle chrome accents maintain its premium sedan appeal.

Buyers have the option of choosing from classic neutral shades to bolder hues like red or blue, though Toyota’s palette remains relatively conservative compared to rivals.

Engine & Performance: Petrol and Hybrid Options

Australian buyers can choose between two primary setups:

Petrol Engine

• A 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.
• Delivers around 152kW of power, paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic.
• Ideal for buyers who want traditional performance without hybrid complexity.

Hybrid Engine

• A 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid setup.
• Combined power output of 160–165kW, depending on the variant.
• Delivers outstanding fuel economy, often as low as 4.5–4.9L/100km in real-world driving.
• Smooth e-CVT transmission designed for efficiency.

Driving Impressions:
The hybrid shines in city driving with near-silent starts and smooth acceleration, while the petrol option feels more conventional. Neither setup is sporty, but both excel in everyday comfort, with light steering, composed suspension, and excellent ride quality on Australian roads.

Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid Advantage

Fuel efficiency remains one of the Camry’s strongest selling points.

• Petrol models: Around 7.8–8.3L/100km depending on driving style.
• Hybrid models: Around 4.5–5.0L/100km, making them some of the most efficient sedans in Australia.

For commuters, fleet operators, and eco-conscious buyers, the hybrid delivers long-term savings and lower emissions, making it the go-to choice.

Interior: Comfort Meets Practicality

Step inside the Camry, and you’ll notice Toyota’s focus on practicality and comfort.

• Cabin Layout: A driver-centric dashboard with intuitive controls, high-quality plastics, and soft-touch materials.
• Infotainment:
  • 9-inch touchscreen (on most trims).
  • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wired/wireless depending on variant).
  • Toyota Connected Services with navigation, safety alerts, and live data.
• Seating: Supportive seats with power adjustment in higher trims. Spacious rear seating, thanks to the Camry’s long wheelbase.
• Boot Space: Around 524 litres, more than enough for family trips or work needs.

Technology & Features

Toyota ensures the Camry doesn’t feel outdated despite competition:

• Digital driver’s display in higher trims.
• Dual-zone climate control.
• Keyless entry and push-button start.
• Wireless charging on premium variants.
• Premium JBL audio system available on flagship trims.

While rivals like Hyundai Sonata and Kia Stinger offer flashier tech, the Camry balances usability and functionality, making it appealing to both private and fleet buyers.

Safety Ratings: A Trusted Choice

The Toyota Camry has consistently achieved 5-star ANCAP safety ratings, making it one of the safest sedans in its class.

Standard Toyota Safety Sense features include:

• Pre-collision warning with pedestrian & cyclist detection.
• Adaptive cruise control.
• Lane departure alert with steering assist.
• Road sign recognition.
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert (on higher trims).

This suite ensures peace of mind for families, commuters, and corporate fleet managers alike.

Trim Levels in Australia

The Camry range in Australia usually includes:

• Ascent (base model): Affordable entry point, solid safety and tech.
• Ascent Sport: Adds larger alloys, upgraded infotainment.
• SX: Sportier styling, advanced tech, larger wheels.
• SL (flagship): Premium features like leather upholstery, panoramic roof, JBL audio, and advanced driver assistance.

The hybrid option is available across most trims, giving buyers flexibility.

Toyota Camry Hybrid in Australia

The hybrid has become the star of the Camry lineup. With fuel prices rising and cities pushing for lower emissions, Australian buyers increasingly favour the Camry Hybrid over petrol.

Key highlights of the hybrid:

• Whisper-quiet city driving.
• Strong resale value compared to petrol rivals.
• Fleet managers often prefer hybrid variants for lower running costs.
• A proven, reliable Toyota hybrid system with minimal maintenance issues.

Pricing in Australia

The Camry remains competitive in pricing compared to rivals. As of 2025:

• Base Petrol Ascent: From around $34,000–$36,000 drive-away.
• Hybrid Ascent Sport: Around $40,000–$42,000 drive-away.
• Mid-range SX Hybrid: Around $46,000 drive-away.
• Flagship SL Hybrid: Around $52,000–$55,000 drive-away.

Compared to European sedans, the Camry represents excellent value, especially considering Toyota’s hybrid technology and reputation for durability.

Ownership Experience

Toyota backs the Camry with:

• 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.
• Up to 7 years engine and drivetrain coverage with regular servicing.
• 10 years battery warranty for hybrid models (conditions apply).
• Affordable capped-price servicing.

These factors cement the Camry’s reputation for being cost-effective over the long term.

Rivals in the Australian Market

The Camry competes with:

• Hyundai Sonata: Stylish but less popular locally.
• Mazda6: Sportier dynamics, premium feel, but no hybrid option.
• Honda Accord: Hybrid option available, but pricier.
• Kia Stinger: More performance-oriented, now discontinued in some markets.
• European sedans (Skoda Octavia, VW Passat, BMW 3 Series): More premium, but significantly pricier.

Against this field, the Camry wins in reliability, value, and hybrid efficiency.

Resale Value & Market Position

One of the Camry’s greatest strengths is its strong resale value. Hybrids, in particular, hold their worth well due to increasing demand and Toyota’s reputation for reliability.

Fleet buyers, rideshare drivers, and private owners all contribute to strong second-hand demand for the Camry. This makes it not only a practical buy but also a smart financial decision.

Final Verdict: Is the Toyota Camry Worth Buying in 2025?

The Toyota Camry remains a compelling sedan in Australia. While SUVs dominate sales, the Camry offers a unique mix of comfort, space, fuel efficiency, and affordability.

For buyers seeking:

• Efficiency: Hybrid models are outstanding.
• Safety: Toyota Safety Sense is comprehensive.
• Value: Pricing remains competitive against rivals.
• Longevity: Toyota’s reputation is second to none.

The Camry continues to be the benchmark midsize sedan in Australia—reliable, safe, and cost-effective for families, fleets, and eco-conscious buyers.