2021 Toyota Camry Review

For as long as we can remember, the Toyota Camry was the manufacturer’s best-selling model. Only recently did the Toyota RAV4 bump the Camry out of the way.

Still, if you’re looking for the world’s most reliable midsize sedan, the 2021 Toyota Camry remains a perfect choice. It exists right in the middle of a lineup containing the smaller Toyota Corolla and the full-size Avalon.

2021 carries over a lot of things that the Camry was already doing right, in terms of gas mileage, safety features, and a fabulous infotainment system.

But, of course, there are plenty of new bells and whistles, too. One of the first things you’ll notice is its newer, sleeker design. Let’s hop right in and go for a test drive.

What’s New

Let’s start with what’s new in the 2021 model. The first thing you’ll notice is that the exterior is updated with a sleeker look. It boasts a rounder body that appears to take speed and turns well.

No Toyota Camry review would be complete without a comment on the handling, however. This is a superiorly controlled ride with responsive handling. Drivers will note that the steering is well-weighted and feels pretty solid when cornering those turns or maneuvering into a parking spot.

There are also new paint color options. We just love the names Toyota has chosen throughout their time: Celestial Silver, Galactic Aqua Mica, Supersonic Red, Wind Chill Pearl. Along with new splashes of color, you’ll also see new wheel designs.

The interior got a tech boost with its new floating infotainment display. The 7.0-inch touchscreen remains, but it takes on a tablet-like look (something the Tesla has done well with). For a small upgrade, you can even make that a 9.0-inch touchscreen.

Toyota also amped up their Safety Sense with their 2.5+ version. Whether you choose the LE, the XLE, or the sporty XSE model, you’re looking at enhanced driver assists, including technology that provides better warnings for bicyclists and pedestrians.

Fuel Economy

Sometimes, the poor little Camry gets a bad rap. It’s often labeled as “boring.” Sure, it’s no Bugatti with all that flash and bang, but it’s steady as she goes. What you’ll find here is safety, comfort, and efficiency.

Why would you choose a “bad boy” when you could have stability and reliability? Take the Camry’s fuel economy. The base front-wheel-drive Camry will achieve anywhere from 28 to 39 miles per gallon.

Just for fun, check out these numbers in the base LE Hybrid. There, you’re looking at 51 miles per gallon, city, and 53 miles per gallon, highway. Pretty impressive, right?

Also of note, in 2018, Car and Driver reported that the four-cylinder SE returned 45 miles per gallon on their highway test. As a result, they said the SE was the most economical non-hybrid they’ve ever driven.

Now, if you opt for the all-wheel-drive model, you might see those numbers dip down to 25 to 34 miles per gallon. But, if you live in an area where front-wheel-drive is enough, then you’re looking at extreme efficiency.

Safety Features

While we’re on the subject of stability and reliability in lieu of the “bad boy,” let’s talk safety. This is something the Camry excels at. Currently, it holds the IHS’s highly-sought-after Top Safety Pick+ Award.

It has a flawless crash score, a superior front crash prevention rating, and good headlights. The NHTSA also bows down to the Camry, awarding it a perfect five-star rating in each of their safety categories.

So, what does all this include? The pre-existing automatic emergency braking system now provides support for left-turn intersections and incorrect pedal application. There’s semi-automated emergency steering and the adaptive cruise control system has been updated.

Lane assist was enhanced for greater accuracy, and automatic high beams remain a standard feature. Some of the upgraded models include blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alerts.

Technology

Let’s talk bells and whistles. The 2021 model maintains the same 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system called Entune 3.0. There, you’ll enjoy Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.

The XLE, however, includes a 9.0-inch touchscreen with the option of integrated navigation. As for sound, your standard six speakers are available, but the XLE can deliver a JBL nine-speaker premium setup.

Interior

Sliding into a Camry offers spacious comfort. All five passengers will enjoy plenty of legroom and, again, the infotainment system is pretty sweet to look at. It’s sleek and shiny. We also love the center console with its spacious storage and comfortable armrests.

If you’re interested in the Hybrid model, we particularly like what Toyota did there. They moved the battery from the trunk and placed it underneath the backseats. So, if you wanted a Hybrid specifically for the ease and comfort of long road trips, now you’ll enjoy even more trunk space.

Own a 2021 Toyota Camry

And there you have it! With top-class efficiency, unbeatable safety, and a sleek, new design (inside and out), what more can you ask for?

We hope this 2021 Toyota Camry review speaks for itself. This is an outstanding car with a near-impeccable reputation that will prove to be reliable for many, many years.

If you live in or around San Antonio, we invite you to visit our showroom. Here at Universal Toyota, we’re known as the Home of the Real Deal because we’re always offering enticing prices on new Toyota models.

Whether you’re in the market for a new Camry, some Toyota RAV4 deals, or service on an existing car, we’re here for you. We look forward to meeting you and adding you to our long list of satisfied customers!