The Camry’s power comes from multiple engines depending on model year and trim. The most common choice is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, with a separate hybrid option using the same displacement plus electric motors, and a 3.5-liter V6 available on higher-end models. Most buyers will experience the 2.5L gas engine, paired with an automatic transmission; the hybrid uses an e-CVT system, and the V6 offers more performance on select trims.
Engine options in today’s Camry lineup
The following overview covers the main powertrains you’ll find in current Camry models, including gasoline, hybrid, and V6 configurations.
- Gasoline engine: 2.5-liter Dynamic Force inline-4 (A25A-FKS) — typically around 203 horsepower and about 184 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is optional on many gas trims.
- Hybrid powertrain: 2.5-liter inline-4 with electric motors (Synergy Drive) — combined output typically around 208 horsepower. Uses an electronic CVT (e-CVT); most hybrids are front-wheel drive, with AWD being uncommon.
- Optional V6 engine: 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FKS) — about 301 horsepower with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Usually paired with front-wheel drive; AWD availability varies by year and trim.
These options let buyers balance power, efficiency, and price based on personal preferences and driving needs.
Gasoline engine: 2.5-liter Dynamic Force inline-4
The 2.5-liter Dynamic Force engine is the Camry’s standard powerplant in most trims today. It features direct injection and variable valve timing to deliver solid daily performance and competitive highway efficiency. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard and optional all-wheel drive on several non-hybrid configurations.
Hybrid powertrain: 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle with electric motors
The Camry Hybrid blends a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with electric motors and a battery pack to deliver a smooth, efficient drive. The system is typically rated around 208 horsepower combined and uses an e-CVT for seamless transitions between power sources. Front-wheel drive is the norm, with AWD being rare in hybrid configurations.
Optional V6 engine: 3.5-liter V6
The 3.5-liter V6 option provides the strongest straight-line acceleration in the Camry lineup, delivering roughly 301 horsepower. It uses an 8-speed automatic transmission and is found on higher-end trims. Availability of AWD with the V6 varies by model year and trim, so buyers should confirm with the dealer for a given vehicle.
Summary
Today’s Toyota Camry offers multiple powertrains to suit different priorities. If you want efficiency, the hybrid is your best bet; if you crave more power, the V6 models deliver the most performance; for a balanced mix, the 2.5-liter gas engine is the standard choice. Always check the exact model year and trim to confirm the engine type, transmission, and drivetrain configuration.
Which is faster, RAV4 or Camry?
The Camry accelerates slightly quicker (6.8 seconds 0–60 mph for the XSE AWD versus 7.1 seconds for the RAV4 Limited AWD). Both are hybrid-only for 2026, seat five, and feature similar infotainment systems with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What year to stay away from Camry?
A: You should avoid the Toyota Camry models from the years 2007, 2008, and 2009. These years have been identified as having various issues, from transmission problems to excessive oil consumption, which have led to significant owner complaints and repairs.
Is a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine good for a Toyota?
The Toyota 2.5L 4-cylinder engine isn't flashy, but it's one of the most dependable powertrains on the market. Its flaws—oil consumption in early 2AR-FE, carbon buildup in A25A-FKS—are manageable with proactive maintenance.
What's the most common problem with a Toyota Camry?
Excessive Oil Consumption (aka 'Burning Oil'): This issue is a result of poorly designed piston rings. Oil can leak past these piston rings at sometimes high rates, and that can lead to engine failure if oil levels aren't monitored closely.