The 2012 Toyota Camry uses a 6-speed automatic transmission in non-hybrid trims, while the Camry Hybrid uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT).
For 2012, Camry offered two engines in the non-hybrid lineup (a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6) paired with a 6-speed automatic, and a separate Camry Hybrid that uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive with an e-CVT. There was no manual transmission option for this model year.
Non-hybrid Camry transmissions
Overview of the non-hybrid configurations shows two engine choices, both paired with a traditional six-speed automatic transmission. The following list summarizes the main engine-transmission pairings for 2012 Camry models.
Transmission options at a glance
- 2.5-liter inline-4 models (LE, SE, XLE) — 6-speed automatic transmission
- 3.5-liter V6 models (SE, XLE) — 6-speed automatic transmission
Conclusion: In all non-hybrid 2012 Camry trims, the drivetrain uses a six-speed automatic transmission with no manual option.
Hybrid Camry transmission
The 2012 Camry Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with electric motor(s) under Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive. Its transmission is an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) designed to optimize efficiency and provide smooth acceleration rather than fixed gear ratios.
Hybrid drivetrain note
Because the e-CVT operates differently from a conventional automatic, drivers experience seamless gear ratio changes aimed at maximizing fuel economy and performance.
- Camry Hybrid — e-CVT (electronic continuously variable transmission) integrated with the Hybrid System
Conclusion: The hybrid variant does not use a traditional automatic with fixed gears; it relies on the e-CVT within the hybrid system.
Summary
In short, the 2012 Toyota Camry offers a 6-speed automatic transmission for all non-hybrid trims (2.5L I4 and 3.5L V6), and a separate hybrid version that uses an e-CVT. There was no manual transmission option for this model year.