2020 Toyota Camry Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

When looking at the list of the best-selling cars in America, don’t be surprised to see the 2020 Toyota Camry on top. The latest generation is arguably the best ever. Not only does the new Camry turn more heads with its sporty styling, but it also boasts an impressive number of standard features. Improved performance capabilities give Camry fans more reason to smile. Should you run to your local Toyota dealer to buy a new Camry? Let’s find out.

What’s New for 2020?

By finally adding standard Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, Toyota has made the Camry more appealing to technology lovers. A race-inspired TRD model has also hit the lineup, which comes equipped with a number of upgraded performance parts.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Toyota Camry – The Pros

1. Practical and Reliable Family Car

Although the new 2020 Toyota Camry is a more exciting driving machine, it still offers the same practicality so many people have grown to love over the years. Whether picking up groceries from the local supermarket or taking the kids on a trip to the zoo, you can trust the Camry to deliver a dependable performance. According to J.D. Power’s latest dependability study, the Camry ranks among the most reliable midsize sedans on the road.

2. Strong and Frugal Standard Powertrain

During previous years, the Camry suffered from a lack of performance. However, its latest Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine is an absolute gem. Toyota rates it to generate a fulfilling 203 horsepower. A well-mannered, eight-speed automatic transmission also helps the 2020 Toyota Camry to feel light on its feet. When it comes to fuel efficiency, expect the Camry to outperform most of the competition. While you can anticipate getting around 29 mpg in town, efficiency rises to 41 mpg on the highway.

3. Meaty DOHC V6 Engine

Because of its fuel savings, the majority of Camry buyers will choose the standard four-cylinder engine. However, some drivers won’t be able to pass up the V6 engine’s elevated level of performance. Even without a turbocharger, this engine packs a healthy dose of power. Toyota tunes it to crank out an entertaining 301 horsepower and just shy of 270 pound-feet of torque. You can accelerate to hit 60 mph in only 5.8 seconds. A 33-mpg highway fuel economy rating also ensures efficient traveling.

4. All-New TRD Model Excites

The Camry already featured a fun XSE model in its lineup, which comes equipped with a sports-tuned suspension. However, Toyota engineered the new TRD model to be a serious performance car. Although the Camry TRD does not pack any additional muscle under the hood, it does deliver track-worthy handling. A special TRD-tuned suspension and wider performance tires help the Camry TRD to display great athleticism. Driving enthusiasts will also enjoy the sound of the sedan’s free-flowing exhaust system.

5. No Longer Looks Boring

In the past, styling was an afterthought for the Camry. While the Camry was never an ugly car, it certainly didn’t stand out. The latest version of the Camry rarely gets lost in the crowd. Younger buyers especially appreciate the Camry’s edgier exterior design. Featuring 17-inch alloy wheels and twin exhaust tips, the Camry SE is a good choice for drivers seeking a sportier look. You also have access to lively paint colors like Supersonic Red and Galactic Aqua Mica.

6. Room for Your Family

Most people shopping for a new midsize will be considering the comfort of their family. The 2020 Toyota Camry definitely proves to be an accommodating family hauler. Its spacious cabin provides the legroom that today’s taller passengers need. There’s also enough headroom for your family pet. Dogs will love hanging out the window of the Camry. A sizable trunk also highlights this sedan’s everyday practicality. It’s big enough to easily store your luggage on road trips.

7. Value-Packed Base Model

Because of its affordability, every new 2020 Toyota Camry trim deserves a look. However, drivers looking to keep their monthly payments as low as possible should consider the base Camry L. It has a budget-friendly starting MSRP of just over $24,000. Fortunately, you won’t have to settle for a disappointing list of standard features. Toyota’s 7.0-inch Entune touchscreen is a key highlight, which now provides full smartphone integration. Your family will make good use of the standard Wi-Fi hotspot.

8. Rivals the Safest Cars in the Class

When behind the wheel of the new 2020 Toyota Camry, you can feel confident knowing you’re driving one of today’s most secure family sedans. It’s expected to receive a high score in all of the federal government’s key crash tests. Toyota Safety Sense is another perk that comes standard on the new Camry. This safety system provides the accident-avoidance technologies today’s drivers want. Pre-collision braking, radar-based cruise control, and lane departure warning with steering assist are all standard.

9. JBL Premium Audio System Sounds Fantastic

The 2020 Toyota Camry comes standard with a six-speaker stereo system, which delivers basic sound quality. Drivers who want to give their music more life should step up to the Camry’s JBL audio system. It’s designed to make you feel the excitement of being at a concert. This is an especially good sound system for a family sedan. Clari-Fi technology helps optimize audio signals.

10. Eco-Friendly Hybrid Model

If you’re more focused on squeezing out the best possible fuel economy, take a look at the Camry hybrid. It can easily top the 50-mpg mark. Luckily, the hybrid version of the Camry is also a decent performer. It packs 208 horsepower, which allows you to hurriedly move from one traffic light to the next. You’ll appreciate the Camry hybrid’s handsome appearance as well.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Toyota Camry – The Cons

1. All-Wheel Drive Not on the List of Options

The Camry has always been a front-wheel-drive car. This fact remains the same for the 2020 model year. Like most sedans equipped with front-wheel drive, it should maneuver in the rain without any issues. On the other hand, heavy snow will likely cause the Camry to experience some slippage. If you live in a snow-prone state, your best bet is to choose an AWD sedan like the Subaru Legacy or the Nissan Altima.

2. No Manual Transmission

It has been quite a while since the Camry was offered with a manual transmission. Although the new Camry TRD is a blast to drive, some drivers will ultimately want a stick-shift gearbox. For some people, nothing beats the sensation of changing gears on the open road. Because the Camry does not have a manual transmission, it has a slight disadvantage against the Honda Accord.

3. The Sensitivity of Certain Accident-Avoidance Technologies

When encountering danger on the road, Toyota’s standard safety package will help you to avoid disaster. However, some of the driving aids are quite sensitive. For instance, the lane departure warning system unnecessarily intervenes at times. Toyota does not even allow you to turn the lane departure system off. Its automatic braking system can also overreact in parking areas.

4. Built-In Navigation Isn’t Available On Lower Trims

A navigation app comes standard on the new 2020 Toyota Camry. However, it does not work as well as a built-in navigation system. To get the Camry with integrated navigation, you must step up to the more expensive trims.

5. No Teen Driver System

Rivals sedans, like the Chevrolet Malibu and the Ford Fusion, come equipped with a teen driver system. Parents can set a speed limit for their kids. Chevy’s system goes a step further by providing a detailed driving report card, which highlights risky habits. No such system is available for the Toyota Camry.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2020 Honda Accord

As usual, the 2020 Toyota Camry faces off against the 2020 Honda Accord. Drivers praise the Accord for its premium feel and nimble handling. However, it loses to the Camry in some areas. The Camry’s standard engine packs a bit more power. You also can only get a top-down parking camera on the new Camry.

2020 Chevrolet Malibu

The Malibu has become one of Chevy’s favorite family cars. However, it does not provide a standard safety package like the Camry. While the Malibu can deliver a bit of driving fun, don’t expect it to match the excitement of the all-new Camry TRD.

2020 Hyundai Sonata

Many car shoppers will be won over by the Sonata’s breathtaking styling cues and long warranty. However, it does not quite offer the performance of the 2020 Toyota Camry.

Conclusion

When looking for a new car, take the time to experience the 2020 Toyota Camry. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the Camry's fun driving dynamics and sharp styling. Most importantly, this midsize sedan ranks among the leaders in safety and comfort. Reliability is still great as well. If you really want to dial up the performance, drive home the exhilarating Camry TRD.