Vehicle Detail
2007 TOYOTA CAMRY SE
In our experience, buyers of family sedans often want a car that offers an open and comfortable interior, a smooth driving experience and a reputation for reliability. Although many modern sedans meet these standards, only two have performed well over the past decade: the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry. For most of that time, the Toyota Camry was a sales force, and it was the best-selling car in America eight to nine years ago. Now, in 2007, Toyota has fully redesigned the Camry, and we have no doubt that it will continue to attract a large portion of consumers.
As they have done in each generation before, Toyota increased the size and power of Camry in 2007. The 2.2-inch-long wheelbase and 1.2-inch-wide front and rear tracks offer advantages with interior and rear seats. Under the new car, you'll find a standard MacPherson front and a dual-link independent suspension in the rear. The spring levels and suspended geometry are fully revised, however, to give the car a sharp feel without compromising the quality of the ride. Wheel sizes range from 15 to 16 inches in basic models, and the sportier SE trim gets its own set of 17 inch aluminum wheels.
Outside, the car is receiving a full style update. Toyota describes the appearance of the new Camry as "sporty and elegant" and "designed in a way that will ensure a positive emotional response." But we are not sure. To our eyes the front part looks heavy with its bulb-filled nose, while the head down and the rear lights are weird.
This year also brings changes to Camry’s available powertrains. For the more inclined, there is a new 268-horsepower V6 that gives the Camry sport-sedan performance. In terms of features, even the base-level 2007 Camry comes well-equipped, with power windows, a cruise and a CD player all standard. And all instruments include a standard tire pressure monitoring system. Regular mounting on the Camry line will get you the luxury of a Lexus with beautiful cabinet furniture and high-quality features, such as a navigation system and Bluetooth wireless power.
All these evolutionary changes have made the 2007 Toyota Camry a very attractive choice. Of course, it’s not a family sedan for everyone. The Hyundai Sonata is worth thousands of dollars and comes with a better warranty. The Volkswagen Passat is highly regarded for having it. The Chrysler 300C has a powerful V8. The redesigned Nissan Altima of 2007, when it arrives, will probably be proud of its superior handling. And there is still a very impressive Agreement. But in the regular part of the family-sedan segment, the new Camry has set the bar even higher in terms of features, functionality, reputation and price. Yes, you get what you pay for, and this time it turns into a new benchmark in the highly competitive family sedan market.