The next model in the Camry lineup, the SE, is considered the most
 |
With its 16" wheels and trunklid spoiler, the Camry SE looks the part of the most sporting Camry in the lineup. (Photo: Toyota Canada)
|
sporting. With a firmer suspension that does a vastly better job of controlling body roll, the Camry SE makes a much nimbler platform than the LE and XLE models, although no one would ever confuse it for a sport sedan. Sixteen-inch wheels and tires add to the mix, and conspire with fog lamps, a rear spoiler and special body cladding to make the Camry look almost sporting; but again, you wouldn't confuse it with an AMG or M-car. While the 2002 SE made do with the same optional 3.0L V6 as with other Camrys, it got its own 3.3L V6 in 2004, making it the horsepower leader of the Camry clan with a whopping 225 family-hauling horsepower
 |
| Endowed with a firmer, sportier suspension and more power in 2004 courtesy of an SE-specific 3.3L V6, the SE is perhaps the best of the bunch. (Photo: Toyota Canada) |
. Backing the most powerful of Camry motivators was a 5-speed automatic, with no available standard transmission. Oddly enough, this larger V6 actually netted better fuel mileage than the LE and XLE's optional 3.0L V6, going 2 more U.S. miles per gallon on the highway -- both 3.3L and 3.0L received a 20 mpg U.S.-rating (11.8 L/100 km) in city driving. For the most spirited, but sensible family, the 2005 SE added a unique front grille as well as an even firmer suspension for better control. As mentioned, the SE is safer than the LE, with standard side airbags protecting it's occupants. Be wary though, as 2002 to 2004 Camry's with side-curtain airbags were recalled for twisted airbags that may not deploy quickly enough. Of course, this should now be fixed.
The most luxurious Camry, the XLE, added heated power mirrors, power
 |
| The XLE offered near-Lexus levels of comfort, and when fully loaded cost only a few hundred dollars more than a bare-bones ES330. (Photo: Toyota Canada) |
front seats, automatic climate control, a premium JBL audio system, steering wheel-mounted controls (made standard on all Camrys in 2005) and a rear sunshade to the mix. Being the Camry's version of a luxury sedan, the XLE had the same plush suspension as the LE, as well as the LE's engine and transmission options. Again, be wary of the airbags; in addition to the twisted side-curtain airbags, 2004 to 2005 Camrys with power passenger seats were recalled due to a faulty buckle status switch that didn't suppress airbag deployment with certain rear-facing infant seats. Of course, if you never plan on having a rear-facing infant seat in the passenger seat, you needn't worry about it.
Of course, every Camry, regardless of model, is an excellent buy. Anyone shopping for a midsize family sedan would be remiss to skip the C
 |
| Honda's Accord offers Camry-like reliability, but has the Camry-like price tag to go along with it. (Photo: Honda Canada) |
amry as it is one of the most reliable cars on the face of the earth, and will give any owner years of trouble-free service. And with the fifth generation's more interesting body styling and great interior room, it really is the ideal commuter. Unfortunately, all that reliability and space comes at a cost, quite literally. Camry's have held their resale value incredibly well, especially the fully-loaded XLE and desirable SE models. And while LE is the cheapest of the three, it lacks rear disc brakes, standard ABS, and standard side airbags, making it the most dangerous of the three. That said, when
 |
| The Nissan Altima looks far more exciting than the Camry, and in SE-R form is also far quicker, even though prices hover around the Camry mark. (Photo: Nissan Canada) |
compared to its main competitor; the Honda Accord, no Camry will look especially expensive, but when compared to their more sporting (and slightly less reliable) competitors, namely the Nissan Altima, the fifth generation Camry begins to look a little expensive, especially given it's airbag foibles. But, if 0-60 times and roadholding Gs mean nothing to you, the premium you pay for positively legendary Toyota reliability is a minor price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with owning a car that will start every single morning, day after day, year after year.
