The Toyota Camry V (XV30, facelift released in 2005) equipped with the 3.3-liter V6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission represents a significant offering within the fifth generation Camry lineup (2001-2006). This variant, produced solely for the 2005 model year, aimed to provide a balance of performance and comfort for North American consumers, positioning itself as a step up from the base four-cylinder models while remaining more accessible than potential luxury-oriented trims. The XV30 Camry was a crucial model for Toyota, continuing the Camry’s reputation for reliability and practicality in the highly competitive mid-size sedan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Camry |
| Generation | Camry V (XV30, facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 V6 (225 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 225 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68 Hp/l |
| Torque | 325 Nm @ 3600 rpm (239.71 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 3MZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3311 cm3 (202.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 472 l (16.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4805 mm (189.17 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Camry variant is the 3MZ-FE 3.3-liter V6 engine. This engine, a member of Toyota’s MZ series, is a 60-degree V-engine featuring a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligence (VVT-i) technology on both intake and exhaust valves. VVT-i optimizes valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both performance and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 225 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 239.71 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. Paired with the 3MZ-FE is a five-speed automatic transmission, designated ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent). This transmission features adaptive shift logic, adjusting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.3L V6 and automatic transmission combination provided a noticeable performance upgrade over the base 2.4L four-cylinder Camry. Acceleration was brisk, making highway merging and passing maneuvers effortless. While not a sports sedan, the V6 offered a smooth and refined driving experience. The automatic transmission, while generally responsive, wasn’t as engaging as a manual transmission. The ECT-i transmission offered a “hold” mode, allowing the driver to maintain lower gears for more spirited driving or descending hills. The gear ratios were tuned for comfortable cruising rather than outright acceleration, prioritizing fuel economy and smoothness. Compared to the manual transmission equipped V6 models, the automatic offered less driver control but greater convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.3L V6 Camry typically came well-equipped, often representing a mid-to-upper trim level. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, a CD player, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available. Higher-end options could include a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and automatic climate control. The 2005 facelift brought minor cosmetic updates to the interior, including revised dashboard trim and updated seat fabrics. Safety features such as ABS were standard.
Chassis & Braking
The XV30 Camry utilized an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a coil spring and anti-roll bar. The rear suspension was an independent multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The chassis was designed to balance ride comfort with handling, leaning towards the former.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.3L V6 Camry was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the handling wasn’t as sporty as some competitors. Fuel economy was considered acceptable for a V6 engine of that era, but not class-leading. Compared to the four-cylinder Camry, the V6 offered a significant performance boost, but at a higher price point and with slightly lower fuel economy. Compared to other V6-powered mid-size sedans like the Honda Accord, the Camry often traded some handling precision for a more comfortable and refined ride.
Legacy
The 3MZ-FE engine, while not without its quirks (some early versions were known for oil consumption issues, though the 2005 version was generally more refined), proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The five-speed automatic transmission also demonstrated good longevity. Today, these Camrys are often found with high mileage but still running reliably. The 2005 facelifted XV30 Camry 3.3L V6 Automatic represents a solid choice in the used car market for buyers seeking a comfortable, reliable, and reasonably well-equipped mid-size sedan. Parts availability remains good, and maintenance costs are generally moderate. Its reputation for dependability continues to make it a popular choice among those prioritizing long-term ownership and low running costs.
