It’s difficult working in a profession where you’re constantly asked, “What’s your favorite car?” That’s like walking in to a repair shop and trying to figure out your favorite tool. They all serve a different purpose, and perform their respective functions effectively and without much fanfare.
Except that the 2012 Toyota Camry is a deviant from this norm; a Swiss army knife that’s still fun to play with. And it acts as further proof that not only is Toyota listening, but that they are in fact unafraid to radically change their best-selling car.
The 2012 Toyota Camry, then, answers the inevitable “favorite car” question with a resounding, “This one.”
Sensational levels of customization have long been a Camry strong suit. Models encapsulate everything from the low-range L to the top-range XLE and sporty SE. There are even four and six-cylinder powertrains, the former offered in a hybrid variant.
The difference this time around is that my tested four-cylinder Camry LE, at $22,500, includes absolutely everything you might need.
The LE features the usual myriad of standard power accessories (windows, mirrors, door locks), air conditioning, and a million safety features. What’s surprising at this price point is the LE’s inclusion of a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth streaming audio, full iPod connection, a telescoping steering wheel, and automatic headlamps.
All standard.
Under the hood, things are equally surprising. Bumped up to 178 HP and paired to a six-speed automatic transmission, the 2.4-L four-cylinder pulls strongly from idle to redline, and has an aggressive soundtrack.
During my test drive at sea level, the 2012 Camry LE swiftly accelerated to 60 MPH in a tick over eight seconds. Plus, I averaged 28 MPG in combined city and highway driving. Not bad, considering the daily slog through Southern California traffic.
In the corners, the Toyota Camry has traditionally been a snooze-a-thon. Toyota engineers have taken this complaint to heart, and the 2012 Camry’s underpinnings have been completely reworked.
The four-wheel independent suspension is tuned for comfort, but manages a level of responsiveness not uncommon in a softly-sprung German luxury car.
Although the Electric Power Steering (EPS) is a bit over-boosted, the system provides a stupendous level of feedback. Plus, highway stability is excellent, and the Camry remains stable even when buffeted by strong crosswinds.
Overall, the 2012 Toyota Camry LE offers proof that Toyota has been listening, and hard at work. Whereas the 2011 Camry was more of a transportation appliance, the 2012 Camry is a Swiss army knife of utility. It does everything well, and can be optioned to suit practically any need, all at a good price.
Daniel Buxbaum has had a life-long passion for all things automotive. Dan’s passion for automotive journalism recently secured him a position as customer service director and contributing writer for Parts & People, a multi-region automotive trade publication. Dan also writes for Examiner.com, maintains his own blog (straightlineconcepts.wordpress.com), and is an active member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP).
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