Is the 2018 Toyota Camry a Used Midsize Sedan Worth Buying?
Toyota’s Camry has long been a top pick in the midsize family sedan segment, and the redesigned 2018 model is no exception. Building on the Camry’s traditional comfort, reliability, safety, and fuel efficiency strengths, the 2018 model adds more aggressive styling to compliment its improved performance. Whether you’re looking for dependability or a more performance-oriented sedan, there’s a Camry for every taste.
2018 Camry features & specs
The 2018 Camry is available in five trim levels:
The base L trim level comes equipped with standard features that are optional on other cars. A 7-inch touch screen infotainment system offers USB and Bluetooth connectivity. For safety, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, and lane departure are all standard. The base engine is a powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder that develops 201 horsepower and offers a good mix of performance and fuel economy.
The midlevel LE adds a standard eight-way power driver’s seat and opens the Camry’s options list to various upgrades.
Providing a more performance-oriented option, the SE includes a leather-trimmed steering wheel with paddle shifters, synthetic leather upholstery, and single-zone automatic climate control.
For luxury, buyers can choose the XLE trim, which offers Lexus levels of comfort. It adds a premium stereo with a larger touchscreen, leather upholstery with heated front seats, and additional safety features. Dual-zone climate control, push-button start, and wireless smartphone charging are standard. It can also be paired with the four-cylinder or optional 301 horsepower 3.5-liter V6.
Finally, the XSE package combines the luxury of the XLE with more performance-oriented styling. It includes unique exterior styling and high-end cabin accents.
Toyota Camry reviews
The 2018 Toyota Camry was U.S. News‘ top pick in the Affordable Midsize Cars category. It also ranked #1 on U.S. News‘ list of Best Used Midsize Cars over $15,000 this year. They summed up their impressions by saying, “it delivers excellent performance, from its powerful engines to its composed handling. Add in a long list of standard features and great gas mileage, and the Camry is one of the best values in the class.”
Consumer Reports awarded the 2018 Toyota Camry the Recommended Rating and EPA Green Choice designation. However, Consumer Reports felt the emphasis on improved performance was a mixed bag. “The Camry has long held the distinction as a competent, well-rounded, and pleasant family sedan. However, it gets a bad rap among critics as unexciting. To address that perception, the redesign brings snazzier styling and slightly nimbler handling. The result is mixed, but the Camry remains a competitive midsized sedan.”
In their verdict, the editors at Car and Driver just called it better. “The new Camry is better equipped, better to drive and, well, just plain better in every way than the previous model.”
Is it a reliable car?
The Toyota Camry has a reputation for being one of the most dependable cars on the road, and the 2018 model is no exception. J.D. Power gave it a near-perfect predicted reliability rating, placing it among the best vehicles in its class.
Is the 2018 Toyota Camry worth buying?
The 2018 Toyota Camry is arguably one of the best cars in the midsize sedan class. Not just because it wins awards, but because it does everything so well. In addition to its hallmarks of reliability and safety, it offers many features and values. Plus, it delivers excellent performance and fuel economy.
U.S. News calls the Camry “an exemplary used midsize sedan,” which sums it up nicely. It’s not the most luxurious or offers the best performance. But it does everything so well, and with its legendary reliability, it will do everything well for a long time.