2006 Toyota Camry LE (Video Clip)

2006 Toyota Camry LE (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

When you step into the Camry, the cockpit feels somewhat dull looking but very functional nonetheless. The two-tone, dark grey interior is this silver-painted test car isn't particularly exciting. The dashboard is composed of rubberized plastic which looks decent and is better than hard plastic. The rotary controls for heating and ventilation are simple to use. The audio controls mounted on the steering wheel are very useful, since Toyota has a peculiar habit of installing their radios high up in the centre stack, and you have to stretch your arm out to reach it. Although the Optitron gauges look nice, just like in other various Toyota models, the centre stack is illuminated in an 80's-style green tint. So, the end result makes for an oddball combination of colours.

Seating is not a problem in the Camry. There is space for everyone, no matter how tall you are. In front or in back, nobody's going to feel cramped, even with three people in the back seat. However, the centre seat cushion in back is overpadded and might be uncomfortable after a little while. The driver's seat features a power lumbar support and a manual seat cushion adjustment. Trips to the bingo hall have never been easier.

As for the trunk, it's also pretty big, and has a wide opening, thanks to the car's high beltline and squared-off hindquarters. There is a safety net inside where you can store small objects, or those that need to stay upright, that will move around while you're driving.

2006 Toyota Camry LE (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

As my colleague reminded me, something that needs to be said: the Camry is so relaxed, so laid-back, that its driver and passengers will become as mellow. A no-stress environment behind the wheel is quite a benefit, especially in my case. It seems that the world turns a lot slower when you're inside the Camry with all doors closed.

Pricing for the 2006 Camry ranges from $24,990 for the LE model, shown here, to $33,345 for the top-of-the-line XLE V6. You can also get SE and SE V6 models with the 4-cylinder or a 210-hp 3.3-litre V6, which add a touch of sportiness to this otherwise bland sedan. Although this LE is the only Camry with rear drum brakes and wheel covers, it is hardly a stripper. It comes with standard air conditioning, power windows, doors and locks, cruise control, CD player and keyless entry, In short, it's got the essentials.

2006 is the final year for the Camry in its current form. Grainy pictures of the new and redesigned model on visible on the Internet as well as on Auto123.com HERE. It looks like a slightly scaled-down Toyota Avalon, and it should also be on display at the upcoming Detroit auto show in January of 2006.

2006 Toyota Camry LE (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

If you're looking for a mid-size sedan with a high level of driver involvement, a car that stirs the soul, you'll have to look elsewhere. However, if your needs include spacious and reliable transportation, excellent fuel economy, low maintenance costs and relative anonymity, the Camry is well worth a look. I'm pretty sure that these are virtues a lot of men and women in their '50s are looking for. After all, over 400,000 buyers a year in North America can't be wrong. As for the LE model, it might be the best all-around Camry of the bunch, price withstanding.