In brief: the Camry is offered with a four-cylinder engine, and a 3.5-liter V6 is available on higher trims. A Camry Hybrid uses the four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors.
Engine options at a glance
All Camry models share a common chassis, but the powertrain choices span two gasoline engines plus a dedicated hybrid option. The lineup is designed to balance everyday practicality with performance on select trims.
Gasoline engines
The Camry's gasoline lineup centers on two engines: a standard four-cylinder and a larger six-cylinder for more power.
- 2.5-liter dynamic-force four-cylinder: about 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is available on most trims and emphasizes efficiency and everyday usability.
- 3.5-liter V6: about 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, also with an eight-speed automatic. This engine is offered on higher trims (such as XLE, XSE, and TRD) for stronger acceleration and a more premium feel.
In practice, buyers who want solid daily efficiency typically choose the four-cylinder; customers seeking more spirited acceleration often opt for the V6 on higher trims. The V6 is not offered on the Camry Hybrid models.
Hybrid powertrain
The Camry Hybrid uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors to deliver a combined system horsepower around 208. It prioritizes fuel efficiency while still providing adequate real-world acceleration for most drivers.
- Hybrid system: 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motor assist; combined horsepower around 208, depending on year and configuration.
- Fuel economy: typically higher than the gasoline-only models, with EPA-estimated ranges in the mid-40s to mid-50s mpg depending on trim and wheel choice.
Note that the hybrid Camry does not offer the V6 engine; if you want V6 power, you’ll be in a non-hybrid configuration with the 3.5-liter V6.
What does this mean for buyers?
For most buyers, the four-cylinder Camry provides a balanced mix of efficiency and everyday capability, while the V6 option targets enthusiasts or those who prioritize brisk acceleration and a premium feel. The hybrid variant delivers best-in-class efficiency at the cost of some peak performance, and it remains separate from the V6 lineup.
Summary
The Toyota Camry offers both four- and six-cylinder gasoline engines, with a separate hybrid option that uses the four-cylinder. The four-cylinder is the standard choice; the 3.5-liter V6 is available on higher trims, and the hybrid keeps the four-cylinder but adds electric motors for improved fuel economy.