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Toyota Camry Hybrid Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid ranks 11 out of 19 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 11 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Camry Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Auto reviewers say that after a complete overhaul, the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid is now one of the best midsize hybrid cars on the market.

Test drivers are glad Toyota was listening to their complaints about the 2011 Camry Hybrid. They say the improvements Toyota made to the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid’s powertrain and interior are a welcome addition.

The 2012 Camry Hybrid’s best-liked feature is that it transitions from gas to electric power seamlessly, with several reviewers saying the transition is excellent among hybrid powertrains. There are some concerns though. A few test drivers also noticed that the gas engine is noisy under hard acceleration.

The Camry Hybrid gets a few negative remarks for its regenerative brakes, which some say are a bit grabby and require firm pressure. However, in general, reviewers think the revamped 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a great choice among hybrids because it drives like a gas-only car. 

Other Cars to Consider

The Ford Fusion Hybrid is a good hybrid to cross-shop against the Toyota Camry Hybrid because of its good fuel economy, spacious interior and dynamic handling. Auto reviewers say the Fusion Hybrid performs like a gas-only midsize car, and some call it the best hybrid on the market. Depending on the trim you choose, the Camry Hybrid can get better fuel economy than the Fusion Hybrid.

The Volkswagen Passat with the diesel engine is another good car to consider. Although its city fuel economy ratings can’t compete with the Toyota Camry Hybrid, the diesel Passat’s highway ratings are slightly better than the Camry Hybrid’s. The Passat also was redesigned for 2012, and features a roomy cabin and lots of standard features. If having a car that’s fun to drive is important to you, test drivers say the Passat is a great choice.

Toyota Camry Hybrid: The Details

The 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid is available in two trims: LE and XLE. The Camry Hybrid was fully redesigned for the 2012 model year and has better fuel economy, a bigger trunk, upgraded interior materials and more horsepower. See the full list of 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid specs.

• "Arguably better in every measurable way, the thoroughly tweaked 2012 Toyota Camry has what it takes to retain its already bountiful buyer base and make an even-stronger case for consideration by anyone seeking a top-rate midsize sedan with either conventional or hybrid power." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The gas-only Camry's improvements are fairly incremental, and some shoppers will overlook it because of that. That's not the case with the Camry Hybrid. The interior is a few flubs short of family-car excellence, and the skateboard tires mar an otherwise refined driving experience. But in the most important aspects, the Camry Hybrid leaps past its predecessor." -- Cars.com
• "We're especially impressed with the substantially improved Hybrid, which deftly blends promising fuel economy ratings with peppy acceleration and a laudably seamless powertrain." -- Consumer Guide
• "The 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a solid hybrid family sedan thanks to improved fuel economy and enhanced driving dynamics." -- Edmunds
• "And given how the competition has been nipping at its green-sheened heels lately, Toyota is back spitting some high-mileage midsize game at just the right time." -- Motor Trend
• "From the spacious cabin to the quiet ride and the great handling to the available power, I think that the Camry Hybrid is really the perfect family car. I could see my family loading up the car for a road trip and actually enjoying the drive - no one would be cramped, our ears wouldn't be irritated by road noise and the vehicle is even fun to drive." -- Forbes

Camry Hybrid Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)

Test drivers say Toyota has practically perfected the 2012 Camry Hybrid’s transition between the gas engine and electric motor. Several say it’s the best hybrid powertrain available.  Read More

Camry Hybrid Exterior - NA

Reviewers like the redesigned exterior of the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid, saying it is conservative yet stylish. View Photos

Camry Hybrid Interior - 7.7 (Good)

The interior of the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid is spacious and comfortable, with attractive upscale materials, intuitive electronics and a large trunk.   Read More

Camry Hybrid Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)

The 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid receives good safety scores from the federal government, and its standard safety features are above-average for the class. Read More

Camry Hybrid Reliability - 4.0 of 5

The 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. Toyota covers the 2012 Camry Hybrid with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, as well as provides two years or 25,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance. Read More