America’s best-selling passenger car for over a decade, the Toyota Camry is highly reliable, comfortable, and gets great gas mileage. It’s now available in a four- or six-cylinder engine, as well as a hybrid option, and it continues to outsell tough competition, like the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima.
Key Features
In addition to the roomy, plush interior, the best feature of the 2012 Camry is the Toyota Entune multimedia system. Entune allows you to download apps and enjoy a number of types of in-car entertainment and assistance.
Changes for 2012
In 2012, Toyota completely redesigned the interior of the Camry, giving it a sleeker, more modern, and more spacious look and feel. While the vehicle’s exterior did not get much of a redesign for 2012, it did get more trunk space in both the gas-powered and hybrid models.
What We Like
We love that even the base model Camry L comes with standard air conditioning, cruise control, in-car Bluetooth, and stereo inputs for AUX, USB, and iPod. As you move up in the models, you’ll also get options like paddle shifters, navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and dual-zone climate control.
What Concerns Us
There’s nothing really wrong with the 2012 Camry, but we do have to admit that it’s not a big head-turner. Its exterior styling hasn’t changed much over the years, and it’s a little bit boring to look at.
Available Models
Camry models come in four trims, starting with the standard L and moving up through the LE, SE, and XLE, all of which are available in a four-cylinder engine, while the SE and XLE are available in a V6. The 2012 Camry’s engine options include:
Engine – 2.4-liter 4-cylinder
Transmission – 6-speed automatic
Power – 178 HP at 6000 RPM
Torque – 170 lb-ft at 4100 RPM
Fuel efficiency (city/highway) – 25/35 MPG
Engine – 3.5-liter V6
Transmission – 6-speed automatic
Power – 268 HP at 6200 RPM
Torque – 248 lb-ft at 4700 RPM
Fuel Efficiency (city/highway) – 21/30 MPG
Major Recalls
Some models from 2012 have been recalled due to pooling water at the bottom of the air conditioning condenser, which can cause a leak and potential short circuits.
Common Issues
The most commonly reported issues include problems with the air conditioning and heating system, as well as issues with interior accessories. Some drivers have reported issues with the brakes and transmission, but these are much rarer.
This article originally appeared on YourMechanic.com as A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Toyota Camry and was authored by Valerie Johnston.
