2006 Toyota Camry: Road Test
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2006 Toyota Camry ▼
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- MSRP: $18,445 -$25,805
- Invoice: $16,875 -$22,966
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Our road test for the 2006 Toyota Camry includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Toyota Camry from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Toyota Camry, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Toyota Camry help you decide if a 2006 Toyota Camry is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LE, 4-cyl man. | LE, V6 auto. | XLE, 4-cyl auto. | SE w/nav. sys., V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 4 | 7 | 5.6 |
Most Camrys sold are 4-cyl models. Test LE with previous 4-speed automatic transmission ran a class-competitive 9.2 sec 0-60--adequate for most situations; expect similar with 5-speed automatic. Also unable 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 w/nav. sys., V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 5.2 |
In tests of automatic-transmission Camrys, a 4-cyl LE averaged 23.3 mpg, a 3.3 V6 SE 20.5 mpg, a 3.0 V6 XLE 19.4 mpg. Toyota recommends regular-grade fuel for 4-cyl models, premium for V6s.
RIDE QUALITY
| LE, 4-cyl man. | LE, V6 auto. | XLE, 4-cyl auto. | SE w/nav. sys., V6 | 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 w/nav. sys., V6 | 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 lacks true sports-sedan moves. Steering quick, precise, but could use better road feel. Strong, easily modulated brakes--and cheers to Toyota for standard ABS.
QUIETNESS
| LE, 4-cyl man. | LE, V6 auto. | XLE, 4-cyl auto. | SE w/nav. sys., V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 6.2 |
Top-of-class refinement. Minor tire thrum on coarse pavement, but 4-cyl engine almost as smooth and quiet as silky, hushed V6s. Low wind noise, too.
CONTROLS
| LE, 4-cyl man. | LE, V6 auto. | XLE, 4-cyl auto. | SE w/nav. sys., V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6.8 |
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 w/nav. sys., V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
Comfortable bucket seats offer good range of adjustments and 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 w/nav. sys., V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 |
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 w/nav. sys., V6 | 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 w/nav. sys., V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 6.1 |
Few rivals match Camry's blend of family sedan pace, space, and refinement, plus laudable safety features and Toyota's strong record for reliability and resale value. Competitive pricing and available incentives clinch the case for this perennial Best Buy. Look for discounts once dealers start clearing space for the early arriving redesigned '07 models.
Total Score
| LE, 4-cyl man. | LE, V6 auto. | XLE, 4-cyl auto. | SE w/nav. sys., V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 68 | 70 | 69 | 68 | 58.2 |
Total Score: 69
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