History of the Toyota Camry

In 1983, Toyota wasn't just entering the mid-size car market with the Camry; they were setting the stage for a future domestic automotive icon.  This wasn't a continuation of the sporty, rear-wheel drive Celica Camry offered in Japan. The American Camry was a whole new animal – a practical answer to the boxy aesthetic of the 1980s. It debuted as a 1983-and-a-half model year offering, with a choice of two body styles: a classic four-door sedan or a more versatile five-door hatchback. Both options boasted a front-wheel drive layout, a first for the Camry nameplate, and a sign of things to come for Toyota's future sedans.

The second-generation Camry, gracing showrooms from 1987 to 1991, marked a turning point. It ditched the boxy look of the eighties for a more aerodynamic design. This era also saw a power shift under the hood. The fuel-efficient 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines from the first generation soldiered on, but a real game-changer arrived: the first-ever V6 option in a Camry. This powerhouse also replaced the diesel engine in North America, a clear sign of changing preferences. Transmission choices remained familiar, with a five-speed manual and four-speed automatic gearboxes available. This generation also saw the exciting addition of a wagon body style, replacing the previous hatchback.  Interestingly, all-wheel drive, then known as "All-Trac," debuted here. It would be the only Camry to offer four-wheel traction for nearly three decades until Toyota reintroduced AWD as an option for the 2020 Camry.

Hold on to your fanny packs because 1992 brought a whole new Camry to the table. This wasn't your mom's compact car anymore. Thanks to its significant growth spurt, the Environmental Protection Agency officially recognized the new Camry as a midsize. It also traded in its boxy 80s look for a smoother, more flowing design that screamed "90s."  But wait, there's more! This generation introduced a third body style – the Camry coupe – though it was a short-lived party favor, disappearing by 1996. Under the hood, things got simpler. The engine options were streamlined to just two: a reliable 2.2-liter four-cylinder as your standard ride, with the option to upgrade to a peppier 3.0-liter V6. 

Cruising into the late 90s, the 1997 to 2001 Camry, also known as the fourth generation, offered a range of features that balanced comfort and convenience. Standard amenities likely included power windows and locks, a tilt steering wheel, and cruise control for those long highway stretches. Air conditioning was likely standard or at least an option in the lower trims. Moving up the trim ladder could have unlocked extras like an in-dash CD player, a power moonroof, and even leather seating for a touch of luxury. Safety features like anti-lock brakes were likely standard or optional depending on the trim, while higher trims might have boasted traction control for added peace of mind. Overall, the fourth-generation Camry wasn't about bells and whistles but about providing a solid foundation of features that made daily driving enjoyable.

As the Camry continued its reign through the 2000s and 2010s, the feature list grew alongside its popularity. By the fifth generation (2002-2006), features like power windows and locks became a given, with higher trims offering extras like a DVD navigation system and a JBL sound system for a truly immersive experience. Safety became a bigger focus, too, with anti-lock brakes and traction control becoming standard on most trims. The sixth generation (2007-2011) saw the rise of touchscreens, with the option for a backup camera appearing for the first time. The seventh generation (2012-2017) continued the tech trend, offering features like lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring on higher trims. Finally, the eighth generation (2018-present) fully embraced the digital age, with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto becoming standard and a suite of driver-assistance features like automatic emergency braking. Looking ahead, the 2025 Camry promises to keep pace with the times. Expect all models to have a hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy. A large touchscreen infotainment system will likely be the centerpiece, while features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will ensure seamless smartphone integration. For comfort and convenience, heated seats and a sunroof might be available on higher trims. The focus on safety continues with a suite of driver-assistance features, likely standard or optional, potentially including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. So, no matter the generation, the Camry has consistently offered a compelling package of features to match the needs and desires of drivers.

The Toyota Camry's evolution through the years is a testament to its commitment to staying relevant and refined. From practical beginnings to feature-packed comfort, the Camry has consistently offered a compelling package for drivers. So, if you're looking for a reliable and feature-rich sedan, look no further than Bondy's Toyota! Our inventory has a wide range of Camrys, from feature-laden new models to fuel-efficient pre-owned options. We love taking our customers on test drives and helping them find the perfect Camry to fit their needs. Schedule your test drive today using the form below – we look forward to seeing you on the road!