2021 Toyota Camry Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

With exceptional reliability and passenger comfort, the 2021 Toyota Camry is poised to remain one of America's top-selling cars. It has also taken performance up a notch with an AWD option - making it accessible for drivers in snowier climates than ever before. From dependability to convenience, let’s explore why so many are choosing the new Camry as their go-to sedan this year.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Toyota Camry – The Pros

1. Very Fuel-Efficient Standard Powertrain

With a standard powertrain that optimizes fuel efficiency, the Camry is an ideal choice for eco-conscious drivers. According to EPA ratings, it boasts up to 28/39 mpg in city/highway driving - offering savings similar to smaller and more compact vehicles. Not only does its four-cylinder engine provide 202 horsepower for capable acceleration; but with an eight-speed automatic transmission tackling highway passes or merges becomes effortless.

2. Optional V6 Engine Brings the Muscle

Unlike many of the other cars in the class, the Camry continues to offer a traditional V6 engine as opposed to a turbo four-cylinder engine. This 3.5-liter engine definitely packs a big punch. Toyota rates it to squeeze out 301 horsepower. Many drivers rave about the engine’s velvety smooth performance. When accelerating from a stop, the V6-powered Camry can hit 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Only the new Honda Accord is quicker.

3. TRD Model Brings the Fun

Drivers seeking the most fun should check out the performance-focused 2021 Toyota Camry TRD. Although this model doesn’t pack any extra muscle under the hood, it does handle like a true sports sedan. When cornering, a track-inspired suspension helps keep the Camry TRD under control. Toyota also equips the TRD model with a performance exhaust, which sounds amazing at full throttle. Other performance goodies include larger brakes, more aggressive tires, and extra bracing.

4. Ranks Among Boldest-Looking Sedans

Once considered to be a Plain Jane, the 2021 Toyota Camry is now one of the boldest-looking cars in the class. This is especially true for the sportier trim levels. They have a more menacing front fascia. An available Midnight Black Metallic roof gives the Camry an even cooler look. To set apart the racy TRD model, Toyota equips it with a special rear spoiler and performance wheels. Some vibrant exterior colors are also on the list of options, including Ice Edge and Supersonic Red.

5. Practical, Comfortable Family Hauler

The 2021 Toyota Camry is the definition of a practical family car. While most Camry owners commute on a daily basis, this car is also excellent for taking road trips. It provides a great deal of comfort. Even rear passengers will have ample knee room. This year, a power-adjustable driver’s seat now comes standard. Upper trim levels offer upgraded amenities, like heated/ventilated seats and dual-zone temperature control. Although the Camry’s 15.1-cubic-foot trunk may not be the biggest in the class, there’s enough space for luggage and groceries.

6. Highly Sought-After Features Come Standard

The LE model offers the perfect balance between affordability and feature-rich technology. Starting at just under $25K, parents can enjoy a complimentary Wi-Fi hotspot for family entertainment while opting for convenient Apple CarPlay or Android Auto access on their smartphone device. Other desirable features such as satellite radio, anti alarm system, and LED headlights come standard - making this an excellent choice in terms of price point versus overall value.

7. Updated Entune Multimedia System

In regard to ease of use, Toyota’s Entune multimedia system already scored well. However, an updated touchscreen arrives for 2021. The display is now mounted higher on the dash, thus helping drivers to keep their eyes on the street. Many drivers will love the look of this tablet-style display. Aside from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, users also benefit from Amazon Alexa. While a 7.0-inch unit is standard, buyers can opt for a larger 9.0-inch display with navigation.

8. Top Marks In Passenger Safety

When it comes to impact protection, the 2021 Toyota Camry is in the upper echelon of family cars. It received a perfect rating in every NHTSA crash test. Families can travel with an elevated sense of security. For 2021, all trims benefit for an updated Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ package. Toyota’s forward collision warning system has been designed to better to detect pedestrians and cyclists. Other standard safety gear includes active lane keeping, dynamic radar cruise control, and forward collision braking.

9. All-Wheel Drive

Ready to tackle winter roads? The 2021 Toyota Camry offers an available all-wheel drive system for its four-cylinder models, so road trips no longer have to be a worry - the extra traction gives drivers peace of mind. At highway speeds, this thoughtful feature can even disengage itself and conserve fuel.

10. Dependable Commuter Car

For years, drivers have praised the Camry for its dependability. This fact remains true for the latest generation. Because the Camry is such a well-engineered automobile, resale value tends to be high. Owners also won’t have to spend a lot of money on unexpected mechanical repairs.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Toyota Camry – The Cons

1. Some Downsides to Adding All-Wheel Drive

The Camry’s optional AWD system does a good job of improving traction on slippery streets. However, fuel economy does dip. Owners can expect to average about 25 mpg in town and 34 mpg on the open road. Furthermore, Toyota does not offer V6-powered models with an AWD option.

2. Not As Quiet On the Inside

Most people won’t have any issues with the quietness of the 2021 Toyota Camry. However, it’s important to note that some of its key competitors have a more hushed cabin. The Honda Accord allows less wind and road noise to enter. Drivers will also find the Camry’s four-cylinder engine to be a tad louder.

3. Some Rivals Have a Lower MSRP

The 2021 Camry leads the pack in affordability, boasting a starting MSRP of just below $25,000. However, drivers looking for even more savings can turn to the new Chevrolet Malibu which starts at an impressive $22,140 - giving them thousands saved without compromising on quality or features.

4. Exterior Styling Too Edgy for Some Drivers

Most people love the Camry’s more upbeat styling. Its front fascia really stands out. However, others may desire a car with a more ordinary look. The 2021 Volkswagen Passat and the 2021 Subaru Legacy won’t attract as much attention on the road.

5. No Manual Transmission Offered

Like the majority of cars in this segment, the 2021 Toyota Camry does not offer a traditional manual transmission. This feature could make the racy TRD model even more entertaining to drive. Folks who love using a stick-shift transmission should consider the less powerful Toyota Corolla. Its six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission is quite fun.

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

2021 Toyota Camry vs 2021 Honda Accord

The 2021 Honda Accord and Toyota Camry present a fierce competition for the title of best family sedan. While drivers will love the quick, engaging drive offered by the Accord, those seeking an all-wheel-drive system may want to lean towards Toyota's model - one that also offers some unique safety technologies such as cyclist detection and rear automatic braking that are not found on its rival. Ultimately both cars promise luxury performance no matter which you choose.

2021 Toyota Camry vs 2021 Nissan Altima

If you're deciding between the 2021 Toyota Camry and the Nissan Altima, both vehicles offer impressive specs. The all-wheel drive option in Nissan's latest model is a great perk for drivers looking for extra traction on slippery roads plus their iconic Zero Gravity seats are well acclaimed by automotive critics. However, if driving enjoyment tops your list of must-haves then it's hard to compete with the sporty appeal of Toyota’s new TRD edition: boasting an adrenaline pumping experience that simply can't be matched.

2021 Toyota Camry vs 2021 Kia K5

In 2021, drivers looking for a reliable and stylish sedan should consider the Toyota Camry or Kia K5. The former offers classic good looks while still delivering excellent performance, but those seeking something more modern can opt for the latter's cutting-edge exterior design – all backed by an impressive 100k mile powertrain warranty. While seating comfort is slightly diminished in the back of the K5 due to reduced headroom compared with its predecessor, it may be well worth sacrificing some interior space for these external features.

Final Thoughts

2021 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the Toyota Camry, as its superb blend of practicality and performance drives it firmly onto drivers' lists of top family cars. Delivering a well-rounded package that includes ample passenger space and standard crash protection, plus torque-driven thrills with the TRD model and available all wheel drive - you can't go wrong! The only thing holding back some buyers? A daring exterior design which may not suit everyone's aesthetic sensibilities.