From what I've seen, 10% or less come from Japan. Most are made in the USA. For build quality, I say it does not matter. I have had worse build quality on Japanese bulit cars than USA built. My Kentucky-built Camry and California bulit Corolla have been great.
With some guidance along the way from Mackabee on these boards, I put my name on an allocated '09 Camry LE V6 during the third week in January and picked it up on February 23rd. I've now experienced this vehicle in all the normal driving venues I frequent. To work on 40 mph in town streets, urban interstates and a trip to our lake place which is 45 miles from home on two lane country roads. Overall, I'm well satisfied with this car. Pros/cons are as follows:
Pros - Quiet ride, especially on rough roads. I don't find it "floaty", even at 80+mph Transmission is right on and quick on downshifts, with smooth upshifts Steering requires very little correction and is excellent in cross winds. Better than my '05 Accord and as good as my '02 Passat Extremely tight and solid Very quick with effortless passing ability
Cons - Although it steers straight and true, the steering is numb and over boosted Bland styling - inside and out Some Toyota "cheap outs" - no folding outside mirrors, one-touch power windows only on driver's door, goose neck trunk hinges
I drove just about everything in this class of car with the exception of the Chrysler products and found this Camry best fits what I need right now. Although my favorite was the Passat V6, with the weak dollar the price has gone up from the $25K I paid for my 2002 to $35K for the '08 and I'm not ready to pay that much for a VW. Next on my list was a tie between the Malibu and the VW Jetta.
If I experience the dreaded "shift flares," or hesitations, I report back.
Sounds like you made a well-reasoned decision, congrats!
About the numb steering, that's frequently reported and the bland styling is a matter of opinion. Folding mirrors would be nice, the one-touch windows have long been driver only except for the XLE model, and the gooseneck hinges aren't all that much of a drawback (the flip side is that struts always seem to come with a larger trunk lip or sill, reducing the size of the trunk opening -- look at the Malibu as an example).
The Malibu seems promising, but time will tell. I'd personally never buy a VW, based on their poor reliability record (and my own long-ago experience with 2 Rabbits).
I agree on VW reliability. I've had both a '00 and a '02 Passat V6' (technically 2 '02's as explained earlier, the first one lasted 24 miles and VW of America took it back which speaks volumes about their reliability). but they were the best driving cars I've ever had. Also, I've never owned one outside of the warranty period and I had a great VW dealer who I grew to know very, very well. Actually, it's been a long time since I've had a bad dealer experience.
According to the brochure, both the LE and XLE have the same ground clearance, with the SE marginally less and the Hybrid marginally more. It was interesting that the V6 had slightly less than the 4 cylinder.
No difference in ground clearance, but the front airdam/bumper cover could be more vulnerable to scraping on steep driveway entrances or parking lot curbs.
I wonder what point on the car they used to measure ground clearance, because it looks like there must be less clearance under the front bumper on the SE than other Camry models.
Because ground clearance on mainstream sedans is about 4-6 inches, the bumpers do not hang that low. The usual measurement points would be exhaust, engine cradle, frame, or suspension components.
What are the differences between the 2009 Camry CE and LE trims?
Also, when I was on the toyota website, it looks like the LE trims and above can be configured with a 6 speed automatic. What is everyone's take on the 6 speed vs the 5 speed automatic? I read that there are some problems with Toyota's transmission. Are the problems with the 5 speed or the 6 speed?
The only difference is the LE has a power driver's seat and keyless entry. Otherwise, they are identical (except the LE is another $1,000 or so).
The CE is a real bargain, and the keyless can be added for around $200.
By the way, they dropped the CE name and it is now just called Camry. The LE is still called the "LE".
See the Toyota website, it will give you all this info.
I have a 5 speed manual, runs perfect.
Most of the 5 speed automatic problems in the '07 model year were solved with a simple computer reprogramming. Some people say it still has problems, but Consumer Reports has not shown it to be a problem. The 6 speed automatic in the '07 did show up as a real problem in Consumer Reports, but I think it has been resolved now. I am sure some will disagree.
Again, these posts will probably moved by the hosts to the 2009 Camry thread, but there are no substantive differences between the 2008 and 2009 Camrys from what I understand. The 5-speed automatic comes with the 4-cylinder engine, which I'd personally recommend for better fuel economy (and it has perfectly adequate power). The 6-speed automatic is exclusive to the V6 engine. As I recall, you cannot get the V6 engine on the base (formerly CE) model. The 5-speed manual is available only with the 4-cylinder engine, and only on the base and LE models.
Interesting. Toyota running low on automatic transmissions?
I don't understand this whole region specific thing. One region only gets a CE with manual, another region can get a CE with either manual or automatic. U.S. market gets stuck with Camries that have ugly bulbous logo, while the Japanese market gets Camries with a grille that make them look like entry level Lexuses.
The mind of auto execs, can never figure them out.
When do you think Toyota will get rid of that bulbous head on the Camries? Obviously not going to happen for the 2009 model. 2010 maybe? Too bad I need a car this year. Otherwise I would really want to wait till that bulbous head has gone away.
Maybe I have gotten used to it, but the front does not look all that bad. Depending on what angle you are looking at it, it can be a little ugly or look good. The rest of the car l think looks great.
For 2010, there may be some changes in cosmetics and maybe even mechanicals.
As far as the regions, it is strange. When I was buying mine, I was looking for a CE manual transmission. Locally, they said no way, Toyota does not even ship CEs here and manual transmissions they do not ship here either in any trim level.
My Dealer wants me to pay $1000 to have a car brought from North Texas to south teaxas (600 miles) Since I am already paying for shipping on the car. Should I be paying for the dealer trade shipping. Any thoughts?
General Question--I have a 08 Camry LE Automatic 4 with 4000 miles and 5 months old--started getting a "chirp" from either back wheel area when hitting a sharp pothole on the side hitting the pothole--any ideas on the cause--have not discussed this with the dealer yet ??? Thanks
Thanks for the reply--just annoying when you have a new vehicle--I do not like chirps or squeaks--did not know if a wheelcover could cause it--I will take the rear ones off and see what happens--anyone ever hear of wheelcovers causing "chirps". I know on these little noises they are hard to trace.Tires are inflated correctly and not damaged.
Yep, plastic wheel covers can squeak. Make sure they're on tight. But so too can a whole bunch of suspension parts that flex when going over bumps and pot holes.
As many others have commented, newer Camry's aren't as tight as they used to be. This month's Consumer Reports rates the Camry for squeaks and rattles "much worse than average."
Thanks for the answer--I will check the wheelcovers---Right on with that Consumer Report info--I had an 02 that was very solid--as you say there are many suspension parts and hard to pin point to a service manager these small annoyances.
Oops! I guess I've read too many comments alleging conspiracies and corruption that weren't tongue in cheek. Given your consistently knowledgeable and helpful posts on cars, I should have known better. Sorry.
I've driven several camrys, 08's on down. The structural rigidity is im proving every new model, such as it is with the accord. I think both Honda & Toyota have had a few (very) minor problems, which is probably due to increased volume on both cars. However, face the facts. They are improving every year. I would feel comfortable purchasing either automobile with confidence. I'm sure both companies are working on those minor items and soon will have the kinks worked out. I own an 03 Le camry that returns up to 40 mpg @ 60 mph. I enjoy the softer ride, over the accord. I can drive my dodge deisel if i want to feel a stiff ride, lol. I'm always above 32 mpg @75mph or less. I really like both cars but think i'd opt for the 09 camry. Toyota seems to always achieve a hair better mpg. and both cars are top of the class, as is the new altima with its teeth nipping on thier ankles. You cant go wrong with either, but i guess i like the pampering of the camry. You know what really sells me??? The camry is quieter and i prefer isolation while i'm cruising, hence easier cell phone convos...and books on tape as i travel weekly from SO Cal to Phx. good luck
Bought an 08 and has Bridgestones--hope they last longer than the ones that came with my 02 Camry--they lasted to about 23000 miles--like the Michelins if you can find a Camry with them--good luck------------
The XLE is the only model that has a sliding armrest and it seems nice since it's longer and would let you rest your entire arm on it rather than just your elbow. However, I sat in a couple XLEs and noticed the armrest sliders are so loose that they slide around even when you aren't trying to move the armrest. It doesn't appear that the armrest can lock in any position so it doesn't shift forward and back unintentionally. Is there any way to add resistance to it so it doesn't move around under you unless you're really trying to move it?
I am looking at the camry se and I am trying to figure out if I should get the V6 engine or the 4 cylinder engine. One of my friends said that the V6 on the camry did not get good reviews or was below average.
The V6 had problems on the 2007s, but they may be fixed now. They may have fixed the issue, but that won't be reflected in the history for some time especially because the 2008 model year was so short and now they are already on on to 2009s. Regardless, you should drive the 4 cylinder and see if you like it since you are the one who will be driving it. If it has enough power for your needs, then there is no reason to even consider the V6, pay more much more up front, use more gas and take a risk of more problems..
If you drive the four cylinder and you feel like it doesn't have enough power to merge onto the highway, then look at the V6.
I have a 4 and no problem merging but do not live in a big city where they all drive fast.I can get on an interstate with ease--suggest as previous poster said to try it out for an hour or so.
"I am looking at the camry se and I am trying to figure out if I should get the V6 engine or the 4 cylinder engine. One of my friends said that the V6 on the camry did not get good reviews or was below average."
My two cents:
I rented an 07 Camry LE 4 cylinder for the weekend. The car really surprised me as it was quiet, smooth, and very easy to drive. For city use I would recommend the 4 no question. BUT, on the highway and for those times in the city when I needed the extra power I found the 4 to be lacking. Coming from a GM V6 I was frequently disappointed by the lack of power on tap. Also when you ask for power from the engine it whines and screams (read: noise goes up quite a bit) and there is a slight lag before that power is transmitted to the wheels.
For those reasons I myself just placed an order for the Camry v6 (scam or not, but I also bought the Toyota extended warranty to deal with any transmission issues...I plan to keep this car for at least 10 years).
I also rented a 4 cylinder Camry and it was fine on the highway for me. No problem getting up to speed to merge into high-speed traffic at all. That's why he needs to drive the car himself. How fast it feels will be in direct relation to the car he's used to driving.
If you keep it 10 years, you will have it during the time when it most likely to have the most expensive problems and the extended warranty would have long expired before then.
If you don't have many problems during the extended warranty period, the money is wasted and if you do have a lot of problems, then you have a lemon and you better get rid of it long before it's 10 years old because it will just get worse and worse with more age and miles.
I have a few different questions. I just ordered the LE V6: 1.When is the right time to have the car waxed (etc?). Should I wait till next spring? 2.If I buy a can of Scotch guard for the seats will that damage the cloth? 3.Anyone have experience with the 3M paint protection plastic for the front? 4.What is the best/proper method to break-in the vehicle?
1. Most people say it is okay to wax immediately. 2. I use Scotch guard, and it has been fine. 3. ? 4. The owner's manual will tell you. I know it says to avoid going at the same speed for long distances, and I think it may still say avoid abrupt starts and stops.
I've put the 3M brand paint protection on all my cars since 2000 and it's worked great. I'd highly recommend it. Shop around for price, however, as some dealers really mark it up. I've been paying about $125 for my last few vehicles.
Is the 3M paint protection the "film" I've read about? If so, do you think it'll protect against pine tar, etc.. I live in a wooded area and unfortunately don't have a garage.
We used 2 cans of Scotch Guard on the beige interior of my wife's new Honda Civic last year as soon as we bought it, no problems whatsoever., carpet and seats.
The 3M brand film I'm referring to only covers the front nose of the vehicle and a few inches into the hood area and is designed to resist stone chips. It does a great job for that. My guess is it would keep the pine tar from staining the finish, but it wouldn't cover much area. Good luck dealing with the pine tar.
thanks everyone. i pick it up tommorrow! Still haven't found a place that does the 3M film installation though Anyone in Toronto know? Or for that matter anyone knows where I can buy legit Camry accessories? I want the leather (or the leather+wood) shift knob.
Comments
Pros -
Quiet ride, especially on rough roads. I don't find it "floaty", even at 80+mph
Transmission is right on and quick on downshifts, with smooth upshifts
Steering requires very little correction and is excellent in cross winds. Better than
my '05 Accord and as good as my '02 Passat
Extremely tight and solid
Very quick with effortless passing ability
Cons -
Although it steers straight and true, the steering is numb and over boosted
Bland styling - inside and out
Some Toyota "cheap outs" - no folding outside mirrors, one-touch power windows only on driver's door, goose neck trunk hinges
I drove just about everything in this class of car with the exception of the Chrysler products and found this Camry best fits what I need right now. Although my favorite was the Passat V6, with the weak dollar the price has gone up from the $25K I paid for my 2002 to $35K for the '08 and I'm not ready to pay that much for a VW. Next on my list was a tie between the Malibu and the VW Jetta.
If I experience the dreaded "shift flares," or hesitations, I report back.
About the numb steering, that's frequently reported and the bland styling is a matter of opinion. Folding mirrors would be nice, the one-touch windows have long been driver only except for the XLE model, and the gooseneck hinges aren't all that much of a drawback (the flip side is that struts always seem to come with a larger trunk lip or sill, reducing the size of the trunk opening -- look at the Malibu as an example).
The Malibu seems promising, but time will tell. I'd personally never buy a VW, based on their poor reliability record (and my own long-ago experience with 2 Rabbits).
Also, when I was on the toyota website, it looks like the LE trims and above can be configured with a 6 speed automatic. What is everyone's take on the 6 speed vs the 5 speed automatic? I read that there are some problems with Toyota's transmission. Are the problems with the 5 speed or the 6 speed?
The only difference is the LE has a power driver's seat and keyless entry. Otherwise, they are identical (except the LE is another $1,000 or so).
The CE is a real bargain, and the keyless can be added for around $200.
By the way, they dropped the CE name and it is now just called Camry. The LE is still called the "LE".
See the Toyota website, it will give you all this info.
I have a 5 speed manual, runs perfect.
Most of the 5 speed automatic problems in the '07 model year were solved with a simple computer reprogramming. Some people say it still has problems, but Consumer Reports has not shown it to be a problem. The 6 speed automatic in the '07 did show up as a real problem in Consumer Reports, but I think it has been resolved now. I am sure some will disagree.
If the transmission problems have been solved, then I am really ready to jump on one.
Would you recommend the 2008 or the 2009 model? What has changed between the 2008 and the 2009? I am mainly looking at the CE and the LE trim levels.
The CE (or just "Camry" as it is now called) is the real bargain. I have seen CE's with the dealer asking just under $17,000!
Are you looking for stick or automatic? According to the Toyota website, the Camry (CE) for '09 is only available with a stick.
When I was purchasing my CE manual, I could not get a CE in my area - had to travel out of state.
Just interesting!
I don't understand this whole region specific thing. One region only gets a CE with manual, another region can get a CE with either manual or automatic. U.S. market gets stuck with Camries that have ugly bulbous logo, while the Japanese market gets Camries with a grille that make them look like entry level Lexuses.
The mind of auto execs, can never figure them out.
When do you think Toyota will get rid of that bulbous head on the Camries? Obviously not going to happen for the 2009 model. 2010 maybe? Too bad I need a car this year. Otherwise I would really want to wait till that bulbous head has gone away.
For 2010, there may be some changes in cosmetics and maybe even mechanicals.
As far as the regions, it is strange. When I was buying mine, I was looking for a CE manual transmission. Locally, they said no way, Toyota does not even ship CEs here and manual transmissions they do not ship here either in any trim level.
But a few hours down the road and I had my car!
Good luck with your purchase!
I've bought two cars that we're brought in from other dealers. The subject of an added fee wasn't mentioned.
If we were talking about a Ferrari, well . . . . .
Otherwise, I'd just monitor the situation and take action only if it gets worse.
As many others have commented, newer Camry's aren't as tight as they used to be. This month's Consumer Reports rates the Camry for squeaks and rattles "much worse than average."
Mack
Mack
Mack
Caaz
later
caaz
However, I sat in a couple XLEs and noticed the armrest sliders are so loose that they slide around even when you aren't trying to move the armrest.
It doesn't appear that the armrest can lock in any position so it doesn't shift forward and back unintentionally.
Is there any way to add resistance to it so it doesn't move around under you unless you're really trying to move it?
Regardless, you should drive the 4 cylinder and see if you like it since you are the one who will be driving it. If it has enough power for your needs, then there is no reason to even consider the V6, pay more much more up front, use more gas and take a risk of more problems..
If you drive the four cylinder and you feel like it doesn't have enough power to merge onto the highway, then look at the V6.
My two cents:
I rented an 07 Camry LE 4 cylinder for the weekend. The car really surprised me as it was quiet, smooth, and very easy to drive. For city use I would recommend the 4 no question. BUT, on the highway and for those times in the city when I needed the extra power I found the 4 to be lacking. Coming from a GM V6 I was frequently disappointed by the lack of power on tap. Also when you ask for power from the engine it whines and screams (read: noise goes up quite a bit) and there is a slight lag before that power is transmitted to the wheels.
For those reasons I myself just placed an order for the Camry v6 (scam or not, but I also bought the Toyota extended warranty to deal with any transmission issues...I plan to keep this car for at least 10 years).
Good luck!
If you keep it 10 years, you will have it during the time when it most likely to have the most expensive problems and the extended warranty would have long expired before then.
If you don't have many problems during the extended warranty period, the money is wasted and if you do have a lot of problems, then you have a lemon and you better get rid of it long before it's 10 years old because it will just get worse and worse with more age and miles.
I have a few different questions. I just ordered the LE V6:
1.When is the right time to have the car waxed (etc?). Should I wait till next spring?
2.If I buy a can of Scotch guard for the seats will that damage the cloth?
3.Anyone have experience with the 3M paint protection plastic for the front?
4.What is the best/proper method to break-in the vehicle?
2. I use Scotch guard, and it has been fine.
3. ?
4. The owner's manual will tell you. I know it says to avoid going at the same speed for long distances, and I think it may still say avoid abrupt starts and stops.
Still haven't found a place that does the 3M film installation though