2005 Toyota Camry: Road Test

Archived Review

2005 Toyota Camry 

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  • MSRP: $18,195 -$25,555
  • Invoice: $16,645 -$22,743

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Our road test for the 2005 Toyota Camry includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Toyota Camry from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Toyota Camry, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Toyota Camry help you decide if a 2005 Toyota Camry is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
4 6 4 7 5.3

Most Camrys sold are 4-cyl models. Test LE with 4-speed automatic transmission ran a class-competitive 9.2 sec 0-60--adequate for most situations. Expect similar from 4-cyl with new 5-speed automatic. Also no chance yet to time 3.0 V6, but expect around 8 sec 0-60. Test 3.3 V6 SE clocked a lively 7.0 sec.

FUEL ECONOMY

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 5 6 5 5.2

Test 4-cyl LE with 4-speed automatic averaged 23.3 mpg vs. 20.5 mpg for test 3.3 V6 SE. Test 3.0 automatic XLE averaged 19.4 mpg. Toyota recommends regular-grade fuel for the 4-cyl, premium for V6s.

RIDE QUALITY

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
8 8 8 8 6.1

Comfortably supple and absorbent in all models. Standard suspension suffers minor unwanted float over dips and swells; firmer SE provides better body control with no comfort penalty.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 6 6 6 6.1

Predictable, pleasant. Body lean apparent but not excessive in tight, fast turns. SE has a bit less lean, better stability, but not true sports-sedan moves. Steering quick, precise, but could use better road feel. Strong, easily modulated brakes--and cheers to Toyota for standard ABS on all models.

QUIETNESS

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 8 7 8 6

Top-of-class refinement. Minor tire thrum on coarse pavement, but 4-cyl engine almost as smooth and quiet as silky, hushed V6s.

CONTROLS

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
10 10 10 8 6.6

Simple and intuitive. Dashboard puts most everything up high and close. Optional navigation system easier to use than some, but still takes learning. Its screen tilts for better legibility in certain light conditions, but must be powered open to access CD slot, a nuisance. Fine workmanship, materials.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 7 7 7 6.3

Comfortable bucket seats offer good range of adjustments, especially in XLE, plus ample space. Driver sits relatively high, but styling impedes aft visibility somewhat.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 6 6 6 4.7

More than class competitive. Ample head and knee space outboard. Enough width for a middle adult on short trips. Easy entry/exit.

CARGO ROOM

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
5 5 5 5 4.5

There's more trunk volume than in many class rivals, but narrow aperture won't swallow really bulky items. Ample, handy interior storage, particularly in front.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
9 10 10 8 5.7

Few rivals match Camry's blend of family sedan pace, space, and refinement, plus laudable safety features and Toyota's proven reliability and strong resale values. Competitive pricing and available incentives clinch the case for this perennial Best Buy.

Total Score

LE, 4-cyl man. LE, V6 auto. XLE, 4-cyl auto. SE V6 w/nav. sys. Class Average
68 71 69 68 56.5

Total Score: 69

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score
45
Average Score
56
High Score
71

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