There’s something special about the lighting features on the Toyota 2015 Camrys. I recently test drove both the SXE V6 and Hybrid SE, and both have sleek body designs with distinctive tail lights and headlamps. The muscular fender with dimple-like fog lights framing an intense grille gave me pause, a smirk, then a full out smile.
First up for my test drive was the Hybrid SE. I opened the car door and saw the light. I saw the illuminated door sill enhancement beaming the word “Camry” into my mind. There was no fighting it. I was under the Camry spell, and special attention was in order.
Just completing a review of a compact car, I had to adjust to driving the more robust body of a Camry. So my mature side took it easy when approaching stops signs and turning left and right. But when I hit the highway in this model, featuring a Hybrid Synergy Drive system and a 2.5L 4-cylinder DOHC 16 V with VVT-I and ECVT, it was the fast lane all the way. This Blue Crush Metallic exterior on 17-inch alloy wheels with graphite finish catches the light in a special way. The Ash interior offers sport fabric Softex-trimmed 8-way adjustable driver’s seat, in addition to a fold-down rear seat with pass through for odd shaped items that may need to extend from the already spacious trunk. Living up to the tales of any hybrid with EV an ECO modes, gas stations are forgetful details of my story, if they existed at all. It also offers two 12-volt power outlets.
Next was my test drive of the XSE V6 sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 DOHC 24V with Dual VVY-i engine and 6-speed automatic ECT-I transmission with sport-tuned suspension. I tried to maintain my mature driving habits, but my passengers cautioned me that my timing at stop lights and when turning corners was a bit awkward. Me or the car? I don’t know, but I kept my head up. After all, I was driving a Camry with Ruby Flare Pearl exterior on 18-inch machined alloy wheels with black paint accents and a hypnotizing interior. While sitting in the 8-way power driver’s seat admiring the Black sport leather trimmed ultrasuede with Red stitching, the word “groovy” came to mind. This model, set with ECO and Sport modes, also makes available a wireless charging system freeing drivers from tangled chords and wires.
I don’t know what came over me, but I found when test driving both sedans that I became judgmental of other cars when looking for a spot to park. Dirty car? Dent in car? Not parked in the lines? Your driver is irresponsible and I just can’t do it! Sorry. These Camrys require special attention.
2015 Camry 4-door XSE V6 Sedan MSRP: $31,370. City/highway MPG: 25.
2015 Camry Hybrid SE MSRP: $27,995. City/highway MPG: 40.
