A four-cylinder LE with automatic transmission accelerated to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds. That's competitive with class rivals and adequate for most any chore, aided by a smooth, alert automatic transmission. The V6 is strong and responsive, reaching 60 mph in 8.3 seconds. Fuel economy also is a benefit. A four-cylinder LE with automatic averaged 23.3 mpg. Models with V6/automatic averaged 20.4 to 21.1 mpg. All figures included a mix of city/freeway driving. Toyota recommends regular-grade gasoline for the four-cylinder and premium for the V6. Ride quality is comfortably supple and absorbent in all models, with very low impact harshness. The standard suspension suffers minor unwanted "float" over dips and swells. The more firmly damped SE suspension provides better body control, with no comfort penalty. Handling is safe, predictable, and pleasant. Body lean is apparent in tight, fast turns, but not excessive. An SE is more confident, with slightly less lean and better stability, but far from sport-sedan nimble. Quick, precise steering needs better road feel in all models. Brakes are strong and easily modulated, but a Camry with ABS is your best bet. As for quietness, the Camry tops its class in refinement. Minor tire thrum is evident on coarse pavement, but the impressive four-cylinder engine is almost as smooth and quiet as the V6. Instruments and controls are simple and intuitive, placed in a stylish dashboard that puts most everything up high and close. The optional navigation system is easier to use than some, but requires effort to learn. Its screen tilts for viewing, but must be powered fully open to access CD and tape slots. Workmanship and materials are fine. Front occupants get adult-size space, with comfortable bucket seats and a good range of adjustments, especially in the XLE edition. The driver sits higher than in past Camrys, but current styling somewhat impedes rearward visibility. These Camrys feel slightly roomier in back than their predecessors, with ample head and knee space outboard, and enough for a middle rider on short trips. Entry/exit is easy. The 2002 redesign enlarged the Camry's trunk by 2.7 cubic feet, for better volume than in many rival sedans, but the narrow aperture cannot swallow really bulky items. Interior storage is ample and handy, particularly in front.

Value for the Money
Camry's redesign brought laudable new safety features and lifted comfort, convenience, and refinement to nearly Lexus levels. Although all these must-try midsizes still engage the head more than the heart, Toyota's proven reliability is tough to beat. Slightly lower new-car sticker prices made Camrys an even stronger value than before, but high resale figures tend to keep used-car prices on the high side. Don't buy a midsize car without considering Toyota's all-around excellent family sedan.