2008 Toyota Camry Exterior Review [ 2009 , 2007 ]

• Overall
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Specs

Exterior - What the Auto Press Says

The 2008 Toyota Camry received a facelift last year that some reviewers find enticing compared to previous models. But compared to other cars in its class, many reviewers still say the Camry doesn't offer the aggressive looks of the new Honda Accord or the modern style of the Chevy Malibu.

• "The Camry's aerodynamic styling shows more vitality than we've come to expect from a car many have labeled, and not necessarily in unkind fashion, as Japan's Buick. … The flashy new styling (first introduced on the 2007 models) starts at the Camry's nose. The front end is fresh, and easily the boldest element of the new look, with sharp points, curving cut-lines and entertaining surface planes. … The hood dips broadly through the middle, pushing visual heft out over the front fenders. The grille wears a Toyota emblem prominently above softly slanted, horizontal slats. The single-piece fascia blends all the diverse elements into a smooth aerodyanamic look that's several steps away from the pro forma, overly inoffensive, just-another-midsize-car-from-Japan look." -- New Car Test Drive
• Carz Unlimited describes the same Camry features differently. "Toyota describes the new Camry's look as 'athletic and elegant' and 'styled in a way that is certain to elicit a positive emotional response.' But we're not so sure. To our eyes the front end is a bit heavy looking with its bulbous nose, while the somewhat drooping head- and taillights are simply odd." -- Carz Unlimited
• "The grilles distinguish one trim level from another. The CE's is black, the LE's is body-colored, the SE's is black with body-colored surround and the XLE's is body-colored with chrome accents. The SE also has rocker panel and front fascia extensions and larger wheels. A spoiler is optional on this trim level only. Fog lights appear on the SE and XLE." -- Cars.com
• Following a comparison test between the 2007 Camry and 2008 Honda Accord, Motor Trend editors wrote, "Park these two sales giants next to each other and the overall appearances are similar. … In profile, the Accord's character line gives it more of an aggressive, fast-forward look, while from the rear each seems relatively drab, although the Camry's body kit and spoiler add some pizzazz. Nevertheless, the Accord's 'sharp and strong' styling theme is just that in light of the Camry, giving it a richer, more distinguished body. Advantage: Accord." -- Motor Trend
• "If you want something less conservative and more distinctive or an equivalent domestic sedan, you may prefer the new Ford Fusion or Chevrolet Malibu." -- Kelley Blue Book