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The 2007 improves over
its already-excellent predecessor in almost every way. Trunk space decreases,
but the ride is more controlled, the V6 is more powerful, refined, and
fuel-efficient, handling isn’t as sloppy, the interior and seats are updated,
and equipment has been added. But all this comes at a price, as this new Camry
is over $3,000 more than the 2006 model that still sits beside it on the
dealer lots. And it also straddles the price limit for this group, more
expensive than its closest competitors.
The Camry has a very
smooth, absorbent, and very comfortable ride, with fewer high-speed motions
than its predecessor. But while the car’s handling has improved, with
better-controlled body roll and quicker steering responses, it is still far
from fun to drive and quite a bit behind a number of competitors. The new
3.5-liter V6 is a key strong point, providing class-leading acceleration and
near class-leading gas mileage. The engine is generally very quiet, and never
sounds remotely harsh or strained. Wind noise is inaudible, and excessive road
noise is rarely evident.
Inside, the new Camry’s
front seats are much better than its predecessor’s, with more lateral support,
a longer cushion, and better padding. There is no excess of headroom below the
sunroof that’s standard on XLE models, however. The rear seat is nicely angled
and roomy, and the cushion is high and well-padded, but the cushion could be
longer. The interior uses solidly fitting, high-quality materials.
 The gauges are large and very
clear, the instruments are well-placed and very easy to use. Entry/exit is
easy to the front and rear. Driver comfort is improved this year by the
addition of a telescoping steering wheel, but the 2006 Camry has thinner roof
pillars for improved visibility. As noted, the trunk is smaller than before,
and isn’t especially well-shaped.
The 2007 Camry was rated
Good in its IIHS offset crash test, but has not been subjected to any other
crash test. Its predecessor failed to impress in some of its own crash
testing.
The 2007 Camry reviewed
here came in at $27,958, the highest price in this group. Fortunately, it was
very well-equipped at that price, coming in with all this group’s expected
features except for the optional satellite radio that would have pushed its
price past the group’s limit. It also includes a rear sunshade, a wireless
cell phone link, and a tire pressure monitor.
Overall, the Camry
excels as a family car. With a roomy, comfortable, high-quality, and serene
interior, a V6 that combines exceptional acceleration with excellent fuel
economy, and an abundance of safety, luxury, and convenience features, it
makes a convincing case for the win here. But if it were not an exceptional
car, it would quickly fallen much closer to the back of this comparison
because of its $28,000 price tag against comparably-equipped cars up to $5,000
less. It’s a terrific family car that’s definitely worth consideration from
consumers shopping in this class, but as the most expensive car in this
comparison, it can’t be the winner.
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