Buying a used car is a smart choice to save money but purchasing a used Toyota Camry is one of the best car decisions you can make. The Camry is incredibly reliable, comfortable, and efficient. To get some of Toyota’s latest technology at a discount, Consumer Reports specifically recommends getting the 2017 Camry. 

What it’s like to drive the 2017 Camry

OK so you probably already know this but the Camry isn’t popular for being particularly sporty or dynamic. Even so, the Camry is still pleasant and enjoyable to drive. There are three different powertrain options for the 2017 Camry. There’s the standard 178-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid version that features a 200-hp four-cylinder.

The standard four-cylinder is a solid option but the hybridized version steals the show. The Camry Hybrid can get up to 52 mpg overall. The V6 engine option is a compelling choice too. CR points out that the standard four-cylinder isn’t as much of a standout because of sedans like the Honda Accord.

We think the entry-level 2017 Camry LE is satisfying enough. However, if you’re wanting a flashier experience, you might want to go up to the SE trim. The SE trim includes a sport suspension as well as a tilting-and-telescoping steering wheel with paddle shifters. 

On the inside

The Camry is super spacious and accommodating on the inside. It seats up to five passengers comfortably, even taller ones. The cabin is also quite handsome and comes with a delicately stitched cloth upholstery. Overall, the cabin is filled with high-quality materials and there are no aggressive amounts of plastic. Available cabin upgrades include leather upholstery and heated front seats.

As far as infotainment goes though, the 2017 Camry is pretty basic. The infotainment system is easy to use, but it lacks the features we now expect today. Connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available on this model. While this is a drawback, not many other family-centric sedans can compare to the Camry when it comes to its reliability and efficiency.

Safety ratings 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2017 Camry a five-star crash-test rating. It was also named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Not many advanced safety features come standard on the 2017 Camry. However, you can look for XSE and XLE models equipped with Toyota’s Technology package. The package includes forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. 

Exceptional reliability 

The 2017 Camry earned impressive reliability ratings from many respected critics. CR considers this Camry as the best three-year-old car you can buy at this point. J.D. Power gave this model a perfect reliability rating. U.S. News named it as the most affordable midsize car in 2017. Kelley Blue Book also praised the 2017 Camry for being family-friendly and practical. 

What generally makes the Camry an attractive option is its long-term durability. The Camry is one of the few cars that can go 200,000 miles and beyond with the right care and for an affordable price. As with any used car though, make sure that you get your Camry thoroughly inspected before buying.