The 2026 Camry is offered exclusively as a hybrid, with six trims available with the starting price for a SE with front-wheel drive is $34,575. Our tester was a mid-range XLE all-wheel drive model, which has an as-tested price of $47,580.58.
It comes jam packed with features such leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, head-up display, panoramic sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, and more.
One new trim for 2026 is the Nightshade edition available on SE models, which adds black accent pieces throughout the vehicle design.
Powertrain: The Camry has a single powertrain setup, but with different outputs if you opt for front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
It features Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system – widely regarded as one of the best in the business – which includes a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with high-torque electric motors and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.
In the all-wheel drive versions, an electric motor is added to the rear axle for on-demand power distribution when conditions call for it.
Exterior: As part of a redesign in 2025, Toyota introduced what they call a “hammerhead” design of the front fascia, which is also now seen on other models in the lineup.
It gives the Camry a wider and more planted appearance, flanked by LED headlights and daytime running lights.
The silhouette of the Camry features some sharper creases than in the past, and a nice set of 18-inch alloy wheels on the XLE model elevate the design.
The rear design is also elegant, with tapered taillights and a very subtle spoiler.
Our tester was painted Cosmos Blue, which is a $350 extra but a color I found worked well to elevate the design of the Camry.
Interior: While I really like the cabin of the Camry overall, I am still not sold on the fabric-covered extension of the dash that runs the length of the passenger seat before bending down near the centre console.
That aside, the cabin is comfortable, well thought out and it has a premium feel – especially with the grey interior on our tester, another $350 well spent.
The tester features supportive front seats, which are heated and cooled front seats, and there’s also a heated steering wheel.
The materials used in the Camry are higher quality, and the fit and finish inside the cabin is well executed. The panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with cabin with natural light, giving it a sense of airiness.
The layout of all the controls is neatly organized, although the row of toggle switches right before push buttons did lead to some confusion over which feature I was controlling. Something any owner would master with time, of course.
Infotainment: The heart of the infotainment system on the Camry is a 12.3-inch screen, which is paired to a nine-speaker JBL audio system. It comes with satellite radio compatibility, and also offers wireless device charging as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
It’s a modern system that works well overall with little fuss and overcomplicated menus, although I did spend most of the time in the CarPlay features.
Drive: The Camry XLE hybrid is a really enjoyable drive. Smooth acceleration, a good AWD setup and a specially tuned suspension help deliver a sedan that is as good on the twisties as it is on a straight line. Steering was responsive and well balanced that is conducive to comfortable daily driving.
The transitions between the gas engine and EV setup of the hybrid powertrain is as seamless as they come. You don’t notice the switch, unless you are really paying attention.
Conclusion: The new looks, all-hybrid lineup and AWD setup make the 2026 Camry XLE a winner in my books. I really enjoyed my time with the sedan and would recommend it for anyone who is looking for something in this market.
2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE AWD
Price as tested: $47,580.58
Freight: $1,860
Configuration: Front engine/All-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder/ CVT
Power/torque: 232 horsepower/ 163 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Regular (49 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 4.9 L/100 km
Warranties: 3-years/60,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5
Website: Toyota Canada