Staff Photo by Mark Kennedy / The striped interior of the 2019 Camry adds visual interest.The Toyota Camry might be the most buttoned-down sedan on the planet.
For a reasonable price you get conservative good looks, a bulletproof drive-train and excellent, bumper-to-bumper durability. And, since a major redesign in 2018, Camry buyers have also gotten a car with a sexy body wrapped around those strong bones.
This week's tester, provided by the manufacturer for a one-week test drive on Chattanooga streets and roads, is a mid-trim SE model with Toyota's excellent 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that makes 203 horsepower sans turbocharger. It's a smooth operator, with more visual personality and under-the-hood performance than previous-generation Camrys.
Those seeking more horsepower - my hand is raised - can opt for a 3.5-liter V-6 which is available in the Camry's upper trim levels, and, frankly, turns the car into a Lexus-lite sedan.
Camrys are available at all Chattanooga-area Toyota stores. Late last week Capital Toyota on Lee Highway had 16 in digital inventory, Toyota of Cleveland had 11 and North Georgia Toyota in Dalton had 27 Camrys.
FAST FACTS
* Model: 2019 Toyota Camry SE* Exterior color: Super White* Interior color: Ash* Engine: 2.5-liter, four-cylinder* Horsepower: 203* Transmission: 8-speed automatic* Fuel economy: 39 mpg highway, 28 mpg city* Local Dealers: Capital Toyota, Toyota of Cleveland, North Georgia Toyota* Price (as tested): $29,899
WHAT IS IT?
The Camry, traditionally one of America's most popular cars, is a mid-size sedan with seating for five. It competes in the same segment with the Honda Accord and Mazda6.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Our SE tester rings up at $29,899, including a moon roof, upgraded audio system, blind-spot monitor and a convenience package that includes a smart-key system. A base S model starts at $23,845, or step up to a XSE for $29,475 (base).
WHAT WE LIKED
Items on our "like list" included the Camry's sexy exterior lines, impeccable fit and finish, impressive visibility, quiet operation and striped (Ash) seats.
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ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
The glossy black dash panels attract finger prints, the gauges are small (at least for older eyes) and the center stack has a flimsy latch.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
While the base, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine makes more than 200 horsepower, we still wished for a more power-packed engine option. With no turbos in the stable, that leaves the V-6 Camry as our car of choice.
Still, our commutes up Walden's Ridge were a snap in the 2019 Camry, with ample power and great maneuverability in tight turns.
BOTTOM LINE
If you are a traditionalist who prefers the tighter handling and better ride of a family sedan - over a small SUV - the Camry should always be on your shopping list. And if keeping a car for a decade or more is part of your plan, you can't go wrong with a Camry.
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Contact Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6645. Follow him on Twitter @TFPCOLUMNIST. Subscribe to his Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/mkennedycolumnist.
Staff Photo by Mark Kennedy / Ground effects lend a sporty look to the Toyota Camry.