2015 Toyota Camry XSE : Is it Sportier than Ever? [Video]

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2015 Toyota Camry XSE

The most popular car in America gets a thorough refresh for 2015 model year. The 2015 Toyota Camry has all new sheet-metal (except for the roof) and updated interior to make it more exciting, youthful, and even sporty. Is this the most youthful and sporty Camry ever?

The test model here is the new XSE trim level. The previous SE model proved very popular with Camry buyers (with over 45% of sales), so Toyota is taking it to the next level by offering the XSE, which is a combination of sport and luxury. In this car, you get the stiffest suspension settings, 18 inch wheels, large honeycomb grille, and paddle shifters for the 6-speed automatic. However, there are also leather seats and other premium appointments on the inside. Does it mean that this is a harsh-riding track machine? Actually, no.

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The XSE ride is still compliant. It won’t beat you up. The track is about 0.5 inches wider due to a different offset on the wheels. It provide a little extra stability in the corners, but this V6 powered car still has understeer. The steering requires a heavier effort, which is good and makes you feel in control. However, there is not much road feel coming through the steering wheel. In the end, it’s a competent driver. It’s not the best canyon carver in the segment, but it’s not trying to be either.

We drove the pre-production prototype and noticed a fair amount of tire noise coming in at highway speeds. Toyota says they worked hard to control all the noises and make the cabin quieter than ever. We will do another evaluation when we get the car for a full review.

This car is powered by the familiar 3.5L V6 engine with 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. It’s the same motor as in the previous car. It’s rated at 21 MPG city, 31 MPG highway, and 25 MPG combined. The XSE V6 starts at $32,195 including destination charges.

2015 Toyota Camry XSE
2015 Toyota Camry XSE

However, by far the most popular engine choice is the 2.5L four cylinder with 178 horses and 170 lb-ft of torque. It’s also the same and still uses the 6-speed automatic. It’s rated at 25 MPG city, 35 MPG highway, and 28 MPG combined. The base LE model starts at $23,795 (including destination). You can the XSE trim with the four cylinder and that model starts at $26,975.

The 2015 Toyota Camry is arriving at your local dealerships now.

Check out the midsize sedan 2014 sales numbers. The Camry is still number one for the year, but the Honda Accord is giving it a hard time with several #1 months this year.

Watch this fun and informative TFLcar first drive video of the 2015 Toyota Camry XSE V6.

 

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov

Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been writing and reporting at TFL since 2011.