We sampled the just-launched 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid over a mixed urban, freeway, and canyon loop to capture early impressions of its new hybrid-only lineup, chassis tweaks, and everyday usability.
Toyota’s ninth-generation Camry goes hybrid-only for 2025, pairing a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder with a two-motor e-CVT. Output is quoted at 225 hp for FWD and 232 hp for the new electric AWD. The battery sits beneath the rear seat to preserve trunk volume and 60/40 folding, while the TNGA-K chassis gets revised bushings and additional bracing. Higher trims add a 12.3-inch touchscreen and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.
Our drive was in an XSE FWD on 19-inch all-season tires, over 72 miles of city gridlock, 65–75 mph freeway, and a short canyon section. Ambient temps hovered around 78°F, two occupants aboard, light luggage, and dry pavement. Tire pressures were set to factory spec, and we cycled through Eco, Normal, and Sport drive modes. Off the line, the electric assist fills in torque cleanly; the e-CVT keeps revs low in casual driving and only flares under deep throttle.
Seat-of-the-pants, the FWD car feels mid–7 seconds to 60 mph—decisively quicker than the outgoing non-hybrid four. Engine noise is present under load but better isolated than before, with fewer droning moments on grades. Brake blending is well-tuned, with a firm initial bite and smooth handoff between regen and friction. Ride quality on the 19s is taut but not brittle: small impacts are heard more than felt, and body motions are neatly tied down over undulations.
Steering is light yet accurate, and there’s a clearer on-center than last gen. In the canyon, the front end takes a set predictably, and mid-corner bumps don’t upset the chassis. Grip from the all-seasons is respectable, though you’ll meet gentle understeer when pushing. At 70 mph, the cabin stays composed with low wind rustle; coarse-chip surfaces bring some tire thrum.
Our loop returned an indicated 47 mpg without hypermiling, suggesting EPA figures will land in the high-40s to low-50s depending on trim and driveline. The updated infotainment wakes quickly, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto remained stable, and there are enough physical knobs for climate to keep eyes off the screen. Rear legroom is generous, child-seat installation is straightforward, and the trunk is broadly sized for the class with a wide opening. Early verdict: the 2025 Camry Hybrid feels more cohesive—quieter, keener to respond, and meaningfully more efficient than most gas-only midsizers.
FWD should suit sunbelt commuters; AWD adds all-weather confidence with a minor weight and efficiency penalty. If you value comfort over style, try an SE/XLE on 18-inch wheels before committing to 19s. It’s a strong first impression and a credible rival to the Accord Hybrid; we’ll confirm braking distances, instrumented acceleration, and full-range fuel economy in a longer test.
