The Toyota Camry has earned its reputation as a leader among the sedan segment. Not only was it the top-selling passenger car in the U.S. in 2019, but CNBC says its also one of the bestselling vehicles ever. Is the Toyota Camry as good as everyone says it is, though? While the numbers prove it’s a popular pick among car buyers, that doesn’t mean it’s not overrated.

The 2020 Toyota Camry

The 2020 Toyota Camry arrived to the new model year with a fresh look and a slew of new standard safety systems. This year’s Camry lineup also added a new and first-ever TRD performance model.

When it comes to looks, the 2020 Camry’s coupe-inspired profile is nothing to scoff at. Also available with a two-tone midnight black metallic roof, Toyota didn’t compromise when it came to outfitting this year’s model. 

As for the Camry TRD? Powered by a 301 hp 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with Toyota’s Direct-Shift eight-speed automatic transmission, Toyota says it’s “track-tuned” and offers “impeccable handling.” Its bold look is sure to draw the eye too.

To deliver on its commitment to safety, Toyota also added new standard safety features to this year’s model. These additions include a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and automatic high beams. 

Why do people like the Toyota Camry?

There are plenty of reasons car buyers gravitate to the Toyota Camry. From its handsome looks to its spacious interior and many available features, it’s the kind of car that can satiate a variety of automotive needs and wants.

The 2020 Camry has also been named the ‘Best Midsize Car for the Money’ by U.S. News & World Report. It was named the ‘2020 Best Midsize Car for Families’ based on its roomy interior, safety ratings, and many available family-centric features too. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also rated it as a Top Safety Pick+. 

The 2019 Camry and Camry Hybrid earned the Car and Driver Editors’ Choice Award as well. Car and Driver attributed the win to its standard driver-assistance features, spacious interior, and available hybrid model.

Toyota Camry problems and complaints

The Toyota Camry isn’t perfect, though. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists several complaints related to this year’s model. Among the most common Toyota Camry complaints are its electrical systems, engine, and power train.

“Car does not always accelerate when trying take off. Major delay in acceleration. Because of this I have been almost hit by oncoming traffic when crossing the highway several times. I have taken car into dealership and was told that I have to wait for an update in car computer system,” reads one of the most recent complaints listed by NHTSA.

The Toyota Camry has been included in two recent class-action lawsuits too. The first, Cardenas, et al., v. Toyota Motor Corporation, et al., was filed in 2019 and, according to CarComplaints.com, “alleges the heating and air conditioning systems emit bad smells accompanied by toxic mold fumes.”

A second class-action lawsuit filed April 3, 2020, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, alleges a brake defect concerning “hundreds of thousands of its Avalon, Camry and Prius models.” 

Are there better options?

The Toyota Camry isn’t the only option within its segment. There are plenty of other sedans worth taking a look at, including the Honda Accord and the Mazda6. 

All in all though? The Toyota Camry is a great option among its segment. While some may call it overrated, and it definitely has some minor issues to contend with, you definitely can’t go wrong with the Toyota Camry.