2008 Toyota Camry Review
The Camry is a mid-size sedan first introduced in 1983 to replace the Corona. Since 1988, the Camry has been manufactured in the United States. Over the years, it has grown larger and has become America’s favorite car. It has been the best-selling car eight times over the last nine years. The sixth and current generation debuted in 2007, with upgraded engines and styling, and was named Motor Trend’s “Car of the Year”.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Toyota Camry is America’s favorite car, and it’s easy to see why. All the bases are covered, from its solid reliability to its excellent safety scores. Overall, the Camry is a great general-purpose car for a reasonable price. You can’t please all of the people all of the time, but the Camry comes pretty close.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power and Associates gives the 2008 Camry 4 stars for overall mechanical and design quality. The 1992-1996 Camry had issues with harsh shifting, hard starting, coolant and water leaks, suspension noise, and trunk problems. It was recalled twice. The previous generation had issues with poor shifting, valve cover leaks, engine stalling, and engine noise. It was recalled five times. Expect average to above average reliability. The standard warranty covers the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Camry earned 5 stars in government crash tests. In IIHS tests, the Camry earned “Good” scores in front and side tests, and “Marginal” in rear tests. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, full side airbags, and a driver-knee airbag come standard. Stability control is optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Reliable
+ Safe
+ Smooth, comfortable ride
Cons
– Bland styling
– Weaker engine than some competitors
– Overbearing (but optional) stability control
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Honda Accord LX costs nearly $2,000 more and lacks power windows, but offers about 20 more hp and more passenger space. The Nissan Altima 2.5 costs over $300 less and has about 20 more hp, as well as more passenger space. The Chevrolet Impala costs nearly $3,000 more, but features a V6 engine with over 50 more hp. However, it has less airbags.
What Others Are Saying:
“After spending some time with the new Camry, I can say with confidence that this is by far, the best Camry ever made and should have no problems retaining its crown as the best selling car in America.” – The Family Car
“The new Camry is inching its way from the bland, the vanilla, and the ordinary, but it’s not as bold as Toyota would like you to believe. Naturally, build quality, reliability, refinement, value, and safety–stability control is optional on all trim levels–are all here, in spades. Inspiration, though, is still a missing ingredient.” – Automobile Magazine
“With new style and increased space, the 2007 Toyota Camry is better than ever.” – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2008 Toyota Camry at the Toyota manufacturer web site.
