The 2015 Toyota Camry isn’t “All-New”, but it is heavily refreshed. It is one of the most comprehensive mid-cycle model refreshes in Toyota history. Toyota claims about 1/3 of the vehicles’ parts are new and from the outside, only the roof remains unchanged from the 2014 model. This major refresh is made necessary in part by strong competition from the all-new Hyundai Sonata and Subaru Legacy that are both vying for best-in-class honors this year.
The new gaping maw treatment up-front on SE models is a more aggressive look than before, and the new XSE trim (photo, right) adds an upscale sport version that the Camry previously lacked. Perhaps the black grill is a bit large and devoid of much detail other than mesh, but the treatment is definitely an improvement overall. The LE and XLE versions are less aggressive, but more stylish and less bland than before. Hybrid models (photo, below) are also carried over and offer exceptional fuel economy.
You can check out all the fine details at Toyota’s Camry webpage, but I want to focus on safety, carseats and kids in back. One major drawback of this popular family sedan is that the full array advanced safety features is only available in the Advanced Technology Package on the XSE V6 and XLE V6 trim levels. That boosts the price to nearly $35,ooo, a full $10,000 more than the least expensive 2015 Subaru Legacy with the top-rated Eyesight system of advanced safety features. That’s really a shame, because the 4-cylinder LE model is otherwise quite competitive; great value, good fuel economy and a nicer front grille treatment than the SE/XSE trims.
On the plus side, the 2015 Camry has already secured a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top results in all their crash tests. With the optional Technology Package, it earns a Top Safety Pick+ rating, though it has only a Basic frontal crash warning system. It lacks an autobrake feature found on some competitive systems. At this time, the government has not completed side impact testing on the 2015 Camry. The NHTSA did complete the frontal crash testing and the new model earned 4-stars for the driver and 5-stars for the front passenger.
As for carseats, here’s a quick overview:
Thank you to Toyota USA for the preview of the Camry, Sienna and Yaris.