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The 2025 Camry SE AWD Is A Hybrid That Doesn't Hate Driving
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- Published on Mar 11, 2026
- 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD Review: Not Your Aunt's Boring Sedan Anymore
Toyota has completely reinvented the Camry for 2025, going all-hybrid across the lineup while adding available all-wheel drive. In this in-depth review, we test drive the value-oriented SE AWD model to discover if Toyota's bold move pays off. With 232 horsepower, sport-tuned suspension, and impressive fuel economy, this ninth-generation Camry challenges everything you thought you knew about Toyota's bestselling sedan.
We explore the completely redesigned exterior styling featuring the aggressive hammerhead front end, then dive into the surprisingly sporty interior with its SofTex seats, heated steering wheel, and improved driver ergonomics. On the road, we test the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System paired with the Electronic On-Demand AWD system that uses a dedicated rear electric motor for improved traction and handling. Plus, we analyze whether the SE AWD trim level, priced around $35,000 as tested, represents the sweet spot in the Camry lineup.
KEY SPECS:
2.5L 4-cylinder engine with 5th gen hybrid system (232 combined hp)
Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive with rear electric motor
Electronically controlled CVT with paddle shifters
Sport-tuned suspension with larger stabilizer bars
18-inch black-finished alloy wheels
Heated front seats and heated leather-wrapped steering wheel
34 MPG combined real-world fuel economy
Why the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid Limited Outsells Every Competitor (It's Not Just MPG)
• Why the 2025 RAV4 Hybr...
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Test vehicles are provided by the respective manufacturers for review purposes, unless otherwise noted, and all opinions are our own.
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#Toyota #Camry #HybridAWD #CarReview #SportSedan #ToyotaCamry #2025Camry #MidsizeSedan #DriversFocus #brianmakse
I was given a LE PEV base Camry as a one day dealer courtesy loan. I wanted to hate it but was thoroughly impressed how nice it was for the price. It rode like a luxury car and packed with features that were once expensive luxuries. I'm out of touch with new cars but it am impressed how far the Camry has come with this generation.
You’re not wrong I valet cars, and I truly believe every company has to step up their game I think all cars nowadays are luxury in my honest opinion. Smooth transmissions great interior quality and a quiet ride!
“PEV”? 😂
@Payless4YourLexus I was working off memory but genuinely confused why they lost the traditional "Hybrid" badges for some other let's like HEV in small font. I confused it with PHEV or some.other acronyms.
Great review Brian, I just bought a black XSE and loving every mile
*great review as always, maybe in the future we will get a TRD Camry AWD hybrid version*
I have a 25 Camry XSE AWD and it is a really great car. Sport mode really brings it to life. The red interior always gets compliments. JBL system is ok, AC to me doesn’t get as cold as my other cars.
Thanks for sharing!
That’s the car I want next. Maybe in white with black top. I have the SE right now without the AWD, I live in Florida no need for the AWD.
I really hope you reach a million subs. I had one off this as a company car and I honestly believe the Camry is the best value for money car in the entire car industry
My car got crushed, and I got this as an insurance rental. I agree with this review. Suspension is great compared to the stiff crap I had.
Surprised you didn't mention the eco vs normal vs sport mode. TONNES of power off a red light from Sport.
I've been averaging 4.6L/100k super nice for a massive car (its long) that's 50mpg
2:20 The 2025 Camry is definitely NOT exclusively all wheel drive. The AWD models are hard to find around me. Also, I think you got the wrong MPG numbers. These are supposed to get 45-50 combined MPG depending on the trim. Not 34.
I think this guy read the wrong review notes on the car.
Yes he’s wrong on a lot of things, including the 13 inch screen that comes with certain trims. And you’re right it’s close to 45 mpg.
@mohamedabdalla2764yes
Yes
The reviewer explained why he got lower mpg. Most people don't understand that it's the braking that lowers the mpg or put another way, not letting off the gas early enough. I accelerate my Camry Hybrid hard but always coast to either slower or stopped traffic ahead as well as red lights and stop signs and always get 45 to 55 mpg depending on trip elapsed time or temperature with the exception of 25F or below weather. Slow acceleration with fast deceleration also gives horrible mpg.
test drove a new one the other day and I was really impressed. the acceleration surprised me and the handling is excellent. it is on my short list for new car.
I enjoyed driving it, too!
The Camry is a refined 1996 Es300h. You cant go wrong buy it keep & pass it on to your grand children. Its just not as insulated as s lexus.. This mid size sedan just keeps getting better. I’ve riding in Camry’s since 1988. My dad & uncles would be so amazed to see this Awd Camry SE.. I love what Toyota does
For me.
300h is a hybrid. No toyota/lexus hybrids existed in 96...
@jamesdon1879you didn't get the point
Still have my 23 XSE, I love it. Was hoping for a TRD but they dumped it before I could get one new 😔
Okay, first of all, damn, you're color coordinated again. Black, white and grey plaid for the black car! Great review. We bought the '25 XSE with AWD last September. (In the US, you can get any trim level as FWD only, and AWD is optional on all trim levels). The XSE has the thicker front side window glass, so less engine noises. In other reviews, reviewers said this was "approaching Lexus levels of refinement". Since I didn't test drive a Lexus, I don't know how "close" that is, but we appreciate the quiet cabin. (First one of those we've ever had.) For now, this is the commuter car for my wife (about 30 miles each way, and with traffic, close to an hour), so given that we're getting to the age where we think about "how many new cars will we be getting where we drive them a lot?", we splurged for some extras. The HUD is nice, as is the bird's eye camera set up, which also give you the option to look up front at parking lot speeds (and overhead) so you don't bump the nose on a high curb. I wanted something quiet, efficient, and something I didn't hate driving (my fun car is a BRZ), and this fits the bill. I'm impressed that there is power at any driving speed, as you noted. Off the line, or those 45-50 to 65-70 merges. Steering is definitely without feel. We almost always just run "normal" mode (vs "economy" or "sport") and easily get 45 mpg in mixed driving, on regular grade. We started out looking to replace our Forester XT, but everything we looked at was kind of long in the tooth model year wise. The '24 RAV 4s were still on the lots, hard to get, and run the Gen 4 hybrid drivetrain. So, we kept the Forster for dirty deeds (snow days, towing, hitch mount bike rack) and save a good $ 100 a month commuting in the Camry. No regrets, and no problems. We got the Wind Chill Pearl, which you can't get on the non "X" levels, with a metallic black top. It's a nice color, as the body angles reflect differently and show different color shades. Looks almost silver in certain light. Thanks for the review. Hope your summer is going well.
Are the lights flashing on the dash displays while you are driving?
First time on this channel. It was so nice to hear a down to earth, informative and a "all questions answered" video from someone in my demographic! Loved it! I'm looking at getting one very soon. Thank you for giving me a much more informed buying experience.
Welcome aboard! Hope you stick around!
There are a few instrument settings. Two of which have tachometers. My favorite is the gray sport mode with the tachometer instead of the power meter.
Thanks! My ADHD kicks in before I can find it!
Wish road noise was slightly less. Just drove this car for 2000miles on a 6 day trip. Felt harsh at times, and the regenerative braking is aggressive on steep declines when trying to coast. I liked that I got 510 miles of range for about $25 a pop.
Yes indeed! I love this car. I have the SE, in a “base” model without extra options like the weather and convenience packages. If I trade I’ll go for the XSE. I’d like the garage door opener, HUD, HEATED SEATS AND HEATED STEERING WHEEL. PLUS the XSE has overall nicer styling with a two exterior. Black top and side mirrors looks cool.
Just purchased a 2025 Camry SE AWD and it’s been amazing. Great sporty car, and awesome gas mileage! Definitely a wonderful transition into modern cars (coming from a 2004 Mustang). Super happy with my purchase.
I have the 2026 toyota camry hybrid le awd it had tachrometer u have to go through the dashboard
Maaaan, if only honda did this with the civic. An AWD civic would be a powerhouse in that market segment. Not the hybrid part, just the AWD part
The Corolla is hybrid AWD. Same w the Prius.
The Corolla is way slower and arguably not as sporty to drive....the civic hybrid still retains the handling the civic is known for.....@jxmar_
@jxmar_ he wants a Civic(Honda) AWD not a Toyota AWD.
I’d be looking at civics if so that’s for sure
Love this review!! 🤩🤩
Thank you 🤗
I think it looks stunning, wish it was available in the UK.
It gets up like a ev... I'm impressed...
Hey, that’s my car.
The Camry is excellent car, I love our '25. I opted for the LE though which is the best way to package the Camry in my opinion. It has the smallest wheels, and gets the best MPG. It has the lowest cost of ownership through initial cost, cheaper tires, and better gas. It simply does what a Camry should do better. Of course, when I purchased it I had a Supra for when I wanted to do sporty things. I've since gotten rid of that in favor of a BRZ tS (and yes, I'm happier).
*IMHO* the LE handles inferiorly (like a boat!) on the highway, especially at higher speeds.... *the Camry SE model with the sport tuned suspension is definitely worth it.* ('26 Camry SE is my daily driver- we have a fully wrapped matte black '25 Audi RS e-tron GT performance for our weekend driving in the Spring through Fall seasons).
I looked at one and liked the idea of traffic jam assist cruise control where it will just nudge forward with stop and go traffic. Then I learned it is only available in high trim levels and you have to pay a monthly/yearly subscription to use it. This is stupid! Also the trend toward putting on 19" wheels. More expensive to replace, rougher ride, more easily damaged by potholes, lower fuel economy. No thanks!
Isn't the rated MPG for this 48/47?
I have a Crown Signia. Quite a nice vehicle that gets excellent mileage. I hope it's reliable; no problems since I purchased it in November 2024. PS the last video editorial was fantastic. Great content.
Very nice! I really enjoyed my week testing the Crown Signia.
Toyota really hit a home run with this one. I'm glad, since the new accord was totally phoned in.
That reminds me, I need to try the new Accord.
Nice car driving on smooth roads and highways. But, when you're on bumpy roads and hit a pothole with those LOW -PROFILE tires, fun time is over!
All of the roads I drive on are made up of broken pavement, uneven surfaces, and potholes. It's not an issue.
The Camry is nice I always like them - I have a 2017 Mark X - and damn! I love that car. It's luxury/sports sedan, RWD, 2.5L V6 (some are 3.5L) Damn that car is fast and nice to drive. Acceleration very quick. When you accelerate you can feel yourself braced back in the seat, love it 😄
Is automatic start standard, or monthly subscription is required. This is a budget get money vehicle. Easy to sell or just death till we part.
43mpg* 2:40
LE is 50mpg
Ok I was hearing him right lol he was saying 34 lmao
I’m averaging 47 mpg in an AWD XLE. It’s been damn near 60 mpg during the warm season.
I'd get an XSE with ventilated seats because sweating while driving in Florida isn't fun. Also I wish Toyota also offered Camry in a form of liftback or a wagon with a larger trunk opening.
Great review of a great car.We need more hybrid cars like this not EVs.
This comment brought to you by Big Oil, OPEC, and the Trump Investment Society
The digital instrument cluster is customizable by the driver via the settings to show a tachometer if preferred as well as several "themes" (sport, casual, etc...). I prefer to see the tachometer.
Thanks! My ADHD kicks in before I can find it!
I had my 2025 hit a 57mpg trip today
Wow!
If only Toyota was forward thinking enough to have a liftback version.
Just 34mpg? Camrys are exclusively AWD? Cool
Brain, you’re so spot on with your review ride and comfort. I traded a 2023 Corolla Hybrid for the 2025 Camry. The Camry is better in every way except MPG and more importantly for me is the Corolla driver set comfort, it was so much better then the Camry. I have back issues so I can really appreciate the Corolla over the Camry for driving. Would I trade back? No but I will need to take more breaks when driving long distances in the Camry.
Thanks for sharing!
Corolla Hybrid built in JAPAN. Camry built by Big Bobby in KY 😂
I'll keep my 23' SE ty.😅
2025+ drivetrain is a game changer. The 4 banger gas only camry is FAR behind
I had one as a rental, and wow... What a snooze-fest. I was so happy to get back into my GS350, and my car had 100K more miles than my new rental.
I’m surprised by the quality of the new Camrys. Almost approaching Lexus territory, especially in the higher trim levels. No Allen wrench required.😏 The eCVT doesn’t bother me if it means less trips to the pump.
that camry color is awesome
Looks even better with black badges and tinted windows.
Best looking Camry since the 4th gen.
Destroys the fwd only Accord
You mentioned 34 mpg combined thats not true its well above that
Oh no!
Sounds very nice but can’t buy anything assembled in USA until they regain their sanity
Did the SE upgrade package come with those daytime running lights? I was looking at the original SE package and it doesn’t have them
They're optional.
Wish. It. Has. Turbo. 300hp. More. Fun. 😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Underground is an interesting color because it is very light dependent. It can look black under low light or heavy cloud covering. And in bright sunlight it reads as a flat gray. I actually prefer this color because of its variability. It's like having more than one car, lol.
Also, that new fifth generation hybrid system is really something. I've been driving generation two for years, but when I drove the Camry I was surprised by how smooth and quiet it was compared to the older drive. And, it goes without saying that the power and torque on this new unit is another level. Yeah, it's not a sports car, but it's no longer the boring daily driver so many have dismissed, or made fun of. Very nice!
Oh, projected 46 Mpg combined, but probably 34 for sports drivers like yourself, lol! I think in real world terms driving in a number of modes and not trying to get the best gas mileage, I suspect it would get low 40s? And probably mid to high 30s in the WINTER. No one ever tells you that COLD WEATHER has a significant impact on hybrid MPG. Driving LOCALLY under Canada I've never gotten anywhere near 40 in my old Prius. Highway, maybe? Outside of winter, yeah, you'll hit the numbers if you don't throttle the engine.
Glad you're enjoying it. I never drive for mileage, not ever.
Is this a Canadian channel? Definitely not exclusively AWD in the US.
Hey @Gabesafish - Sounds like you missed what he stated around the 1:15 point.
I’m new to this channel but this dude is wrong in so many ways. Did you even do half research? All Camrys don’t come standard with AWD, certain models do. Some are FWD. and it’s not an always on AWD, it’s electronic mechanical AWD, there’s a battery specifically for the rear wheels. And you CAN get the 13 inch bigger screen on upper trims. Also the MPG is way more than 34. It’s 45 city 40 HWY. Good content, incorrect information. Do basic research if you want to be a reviewer 😂
…and there is indeed a setting for a tachometer display in vehicle Settings > Display > Meter type.
In Canada, where this guy is from, all Camrys have AWD. I think that might be the spin here, I had to specially order mine with an AWD option. Here in Minnesota I need it.
@musiclabmn when he first began the channel, he gave the impression that he was from the U.S. by mentioning the U.S. price first. I believe that he is pandering to us despite being from Canada. He really doesn’t know the difference in options between the countries, which can be significant. I get the impression that he doesn’t give a damn.
@musiclabmn true, but Californians do not. The presenter is pandering to the largest audience and neglecting his real responsibilities - the whole truth being one.
@billd9667I get that now.. only had watched this particular video but now went through quite a few others and see a pattern here.
Looks like black not underground
Increase the brightness of your screen.
pretty sure you're wrong about that mpg, its around 45-50 if i'm not wrong
FWD models
As the saying goes ... mileage varies.
Great Camry, but I don’t think any automaker makes boring cars anymore. I test drove a Kia van and I thought it was an SUV.
They’re still out there. I’ve driven a few in the last couple of years.
😊😊❤
any GR version coming? Twin turbo?
🤣
@BrianMakse i.guess no 😢....heard rumors but .....
Owner of an 08 SE V6 with only 57K miles on her - yes, you read that right - and have begun new car shopping because she's been needing a lot of repair work for different things, and it's been getting expensive. Test drove a Lexus ES 350 a couple of weekends ago, and the smooth, supple ride really spoiled me - my wife and I loved it, but it's a bit out of budget the way we want to equip it, and there really weren't enough sporty cues for me on the exterior.
This past weekend, we tested a Supersonic Red Camry XSE, and as much as I love the way this car looks on the outside with the integrated body kit, flashy color and overall aggressive appearance, there was something about it that didn't impress me, especially compared to my leather-lined 08 SE. Of course, it could be because I was, as I said, spoiled by the Lexus ES ride, but I don't understand why everyone keeps talking about how luxurious and rich this new Camry feels.
The interior is a bit cramped, and the ride quality wasn't that great with the 19 inch tires on the XSE tester: I also simply can't get past the hybrid engine system. I don't know what it is, but I just don't like these hybrids - I'd rather have a naturally aspirated V6 with a non-CVT transmission and big split dual or quad exhaust.
The ES 350 had the six cylinder and split pipes, but I don't think we're going to be able to swing the payments even with my Camry as a trade, and I don't care for the color choices.
I've owned 2 Camrys; 1987 and 2014. Both were great, very reliable. Never had any major problems with them. Gave the newer one to my brother in Montreal; still riding well.
Currently have a Crown Signia. No real transmission; it uses an eCVT. While I thought I would dislike it, I really don't notice it now.
If you're buying a new vehicle and want to stick with Toyota I would look at the 2026 Rav 4 (I like the plug in). It looks great.
@10tenman10Thanks for the comments; I definitely don't want a crossover or SUV, so the RAV4 is out. And I definitely don't want a plug-in.
It's really not fair that we can't have traditional auto transmissions and naturally aspirated V6's.
If you're open to used cars, the 2019+ avalon is one of my favorites and IMO one of the best cars ever made in this segment. A lexus ES or Avalon from 2013+ is generally a pretty good option.
Also, for Toyota hybrids I think the ECO mode and off throttle regen braking threw me off at first. I still wish I can coast instead of regening off throttle but I did get more used to it over time.
@iComeInPeace8Thanks for your opinions - I don't really want to go that used in terms of years, as we'd probably end up with a car that's got more mileage than the 08 I have now. I'd rather just keep my Camry and make the repairs as needed.
My fantasy car is the last generation Avalon TRD - checked all the boxes for me. Large, stretched sedan with aggressive body pieces, and it was even available in bright red. Unfortunately, it's gone, as is the Camry TRD, and I just didn't act on it fast enough.
I don't know if I can ever get used to the quirkiness of these new hybrid cars; I don't like the idea of the engine power shifting from one compartment to another, and I have read horror stories about the batteries catching fire like out of nowhere.
But, again, I appreciate your insights. If you can think of any other factors to take into consideration, let me know!
There are a dozen good choices outside the Toyota box
Daewoo is better
One of those cars that inexperienced drivers need to be cautious about engaging sport mode on the street.
For the extra zero horsepower sport mode delivers?
Lol . Yeah 230 HP is wayyyyy to much for a new driver to handle...lol😅😅😅😅
@abc123lov7yeah but sport mode should be reserved for the race track 😂
Sorry guy, volume is too low.
You should have mentioned that the E-CVT in the Toyota does not have a chain or belt. It works with pinion gears and sun gears etc. That makes it last a long time. This is NOT a Nissan CVT. Toyota has a different name for it too. You never said anything whether it has auto stop/start or not. This is a no-buy situation for many of us older geezers who know how long this new technology lasts. (sarcasm).
Toyota Hybrids stop/start is integrated with the hybrid system, so it does not work like a traditional, horrible stop/start. The engine goes on and off based on what the computer decides it needs. It is not controlled by releasing the brake. Everything about Toyota's hybrid drivetrain is excellent.
@ddavis5373That would be true. Also why I am buying a Crown Sedan.🙈
I’m getting 45MPG in the city and over 50mpg on longer drives. Using cruise control and staying below speed limits is the key! Filling up for $25 is nice!
You must be that annoying driver that everybody has to try and get around.
@TobysArse- Well no actually, I’m sensitive to driving too slow, when drivers are behind me. However, I try and use CRUISE CONTROL set at the speed limit (or a couple of miles below ). You’re absolutely correct about slower than normal drivers trying to max their mpg with these hybrid Camrys. There’s a real temptation to see how high you can go. I’ve gotten 55MPG on longer trips on the interstate. BUT AROUND TOWN ITS MORE LIKE 40-45MPG. Regular gas too! These are great daily drivers and so affordable to live with.
You must test drive one soon!
4 cylinder cvt, sad
ecvt, not same as cvt dummy
@mrnarasonit seems you’re the one that’s been fooled.
@mervinprone no kid, you are a complete fool
@mervinprone check Car Care Nut- ecvt is a different and totally reliable system
You're a dum-dum
Did u say 34 miles combined 😂 naw ill stick with my 25 accord I get 50 mixed driving
You’re ignoring the context. I don’t drive like a normal person.
Honda Accord Hybrid is better by any measure.
🤡
2:20 - This is NOT the first time in history the Camry was “exclusively AWD”. You meant to say exclusively HYBRID.
Hybrid only it explains why i haven't seen this car on the streets no one wants a hybrid only. The 2026 model will most likely offer a regular gas powered csr once they see the poor sales of the 2025
What are you talking about? Everyone wants a hybrid nowadays. The Sienna has already gone fully hybrid, the Camry too - and it’s unlikely a gas-only Camry will ever exist again. The RAV4 will be hybrid-only starting in 2026. That’s the future, and the long waiting times for hybrids in Canada confirm it.
lol this comment didn’t age well
@TwangstarTW nah people dont want to spend that much on hybrid since theyre very expensive. I had to google if toyota had plans for a redesign of the camry. I didn't know they already redesigned it in 2025 im still yet to see this car on the streets. Hybrids are too expensive
@diegodmv that's why i barely see siennas now a days.
@RadioWaveBlues Apparently the hybrid-only 2025 Sienna was the top-selling, in-demand family vehicle for 2025. There were 101,486 units sold, an increase in sales of 36%.
2:16 Camry is not exclusively AWD. Awd only in Canada.
Hey @JanGumbayan-h6u - Agreed, this Camry is exclusively AWD in Canada, but sounds like you missed what he stated around the 1:15 point.
Lots of misinformation in this Toyota commercial...I mean review.
34 mpg combined 😂 did you even look at the window sticker? the SE AWD averages 46 mpg, LE gets 50 combined. cmon man, do your research before pressing record
You don't like that color, how's the blue one then
those 2.0 ingenium engines are crap.
It's a 2.5, ya dork
Too loquacious, too long of a review