Review: 2016 Toyota Camry XSE
Toyota’s #1 best selling sedan got a major upgrade for 2016. I recently test drove the all new re-designed 2016 Toyota Camry XSE. This is not your parents’ old Camry anymore. The updated Camry XSE combines power and comfort in style.
With a wider, athletic stance, 18-inch alloy wheels and powerful V6Â engine, the Camry XSE is the perfect sporty sedan for the West Coast.
Our test vehicle was equipped with:
- Display Audio with 7†Monitor
- 18†Aluminum Alloy Wheels with Wheel Locks
- Integrated SiriusXM Satellite Radio
- Navigation
- Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Leather-Trimmed Ultrasuede Seats
- Heated Driver and Front Passenger Seats
- 8-way Power Adjustable Driver Seat
- 4-way Power Adjustable Passenger Seat
- Smart Key Entry with Push Button Start
- LED Daytime Running Lights
- Backup Camera
- 60/40 Split Fold Down Rear Seat
All 2016 Camry models come standard with the Star Safety System. The 6 Star Safety System technologies are Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST). They all work together to help the driver avoid accidents in the first place.
Speaking of safety, the backup camera allow you see around the corner and blind spot. It was handy while parking in dark parking stall or paralleling parking.
As I am always on the go, the wireless charging system was a lifesaver. You don’t have worry about tangled cables or losing it. You just need to place your smartphone in the charging pad. That’s it.
The Camry used the standard Qi inductive charging technology. The Qi wireless system works with over 60 smartphones like the Nokia Lumia, HTC Droid, LG G4, Samsung Galaxy, Google Nexus and Motorola Moto X.
The Camry XSE is available in a V4 or V6. The V4 is a 2.5 litre engine producing 178 horsepower and 170 lb. ft. of torque. While, the V6 is a powerful 3.5 litre Dual VVT-i engine producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb. ft. of torque.
Our test vehicle was the V4 version and it was surprising quick. The Camry did not have any issue getting up to speed with fast moving traffic or cruising at highway speed. It was a comfortable and smooth ride with low engine and road noise.
More importantly, the V4 is more fuel efficient with a rating of 9.4 L / 100 km in the city and 6.7 L / 100 km in the highway.
The sporty Camry XSE has a multi-mode automatic transmission with paddle shifters located on the 3-spoke steering wheel.
The eye catching Blue Streak Metallic finish is only available in the special edition. The blue theme continues in the dashboard with blue LEDs and the seat with blue trim. As winter is coming, the front seats are heated and have 8-way power adjustable in the driver’s seat and 4-way power adjustable in the passenger seat.
The Camry comfortably seats 5 people with ample leg and head room. The Camry has 60/40 split folding seats and 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space, which is about average for the class. It’s enough room to haul ski and camping gear.
I love the massive, glossy black 18 inch alloy wheels on Bridgestone Turanza P225/45 R18 all-season tires.
The Camry XSE LED headlights offer better visibility at night and the sleek design enhance the bold look.Â
Overall, I love the new bold design and the major overhaul. It was a fun to drive around town. It is available in four trims – LE, SE, XSE and XLE and remain a great value with modern technology and a spacious cabin. The Camry is certainly worth a look if you’re shopping for a midsize sedan.
