Michael SatterfieldThe Toyota Camry has long been a staple of suburban streets and business casual commutes. Reliable, efficient, and classically conservative, it’s the kind of car that never makes waves. But the 2025 Camry XSE might be the best version of the venerable sedan yet. With bold styling, sharper handling, and a hint of sport sedan flair, all while maintaining the DNA that’s made the Camry a household name for decades.
I spent a week behind the wheel of the new Camry XSE, and while Toyota’s latest iteration doesn’t completely abandon its roots, it’s definitely had a double shot of espresso.
Toyota Camry XSE First Impressions: Sleek and Surprisingly Assertive
From the outside, the Camry XSE is a looker. Dressed in Celestial Silver Metallic and riding on 19-inch gloss black wheels, it exudes a confidence that its LE and SE siblings don’t quite match. The lower front grille is wide and aggressive, complemented by sport side rocker panels and a rear diffuser with quad exhaust tips that look more at home on a Lexus IS than a mid-size Camry.
The slim LED headlights and taillights add a modern edge, while a subtle rear lip spoiler rounds out the look. This Camry doesn’t just blend in, it dares you to notice it.
Under the Hood: Punchier Than Expected
The XSE trim is powered by Toyota’s updated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s no rocket ship, but it’s quick off the line and surprisingly engaging when pushed, delivering 205 horsepower to the front wheels.
Fuel economy is respectable too, with an EPA-rated 32 mpg combined, making it a solid choice for both highway hauls and stop-and-go city driving. The suspension is tuned tighter than the base models, giving the XSE a responsive feel in corners without being punishing over rough roads.
Cabin Experience: Tech-Forward with a Flash of Red
Slide into the XSE and you’re met with a cabin that’s equal parts comfort and ambition. Soft-touch materials abound, and the build quality is, in typical Toyota fashion, impeccable. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is crisp, fast, and supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital gauge cluster adds a modern touch that elevates the overall tech experience.
But the biggest conversation starter is the red interior. The seats, door panels, and dash stitching are awash in bright crimson, making a bold statement every time you open the door. It’s undeniably sporty—and while I appreciate the effort to infuse personality into what’s traditionally been a conservative nameplate, I found myself wondering if it was just a bit too sporty for a Camry. It walks the line between stylish and flashy, and whether it works comes down to personal taste.
Driving Impressions: Refined Athleticism
On the road, the Camry XSE is composed and confident. The sport-tuned suspension firms up the ride without sacrificing comfort, and the steering has a directness that makes everyday drives more fun. Whether navigating twisty backroads or cruising the interstate, the XSE delivers a surprisingly enjoyable drive, especially for those who remember Camrys of old as soft and uninspiring.
Toyota’s suite of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and blind-spot monitoring, comes standard and works seamlessly in the background, adding peace of mind without being intrusive.
A Camry with Character
The 2025 Toyota Camry XSE is a strong reminder that sedans aren’t dead—they’re just evolving. Toyota has successfully added some heat to a traditionally mild recipe without compromising on the things that matter most: reliability, comfort, and everyday livability.
Yes, the red interior might be a bit bold for some, and no, it’s not a full-blown sports sedan. But for drivers who want a little flair with their function, the XSE strikes a compelling balance.
The Camry XSE isn’t just a great Camry—it’s a great car, full stop. And if Toyota’s goal was to reintroduce excitement to the mid-size sedan category, they’ve more than succeeded.
Photos Courtesy of Toyota
