The Toyota Camry VIII (XV70), produced from 2017 to 2020, represented a significant evolution for Toyota’s best-selling mid-size sedan. Within the XV70 generation, the 2.5-liter (203 horsepower) variant paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission occupied a crucial position as the mainstream offering, balancing performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. This configuration was aimed at a broad customer base seeking a comfortable and reliable daily driver. It served as the volume leader in the Camry lineup, positioned above the base 2.0-liter engine and below the hybrid models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Camry |
| Generation | Camry VIII (XV70) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (203 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 138.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 203 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 249 Nm @ 5000 rpm (183.65 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2AR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2487 cm3 (151.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 103.4 mm (4.07 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1470 kg (3240.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 399 l (14.09 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4879 mm (192.09 in.) |
| Width | 1839 mm (72.4 in.) |
| Height | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2824 mm (111.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1580-1600 mm (62.2 – 62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1590-1605 mm (62.6 – 63.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 127 mm (5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.39 m (37.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Direct Shift |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18; 235/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Camry variant is the 2AR-FE 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant utilizing multi-port fuel injection and Toyota’s Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence) system. Dual VVT-i independently controls the timing of both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The engine’s aluminum cylinder head and block contribute to weight reduction. The 8-speed automatic transmission, a Direct Shift transmission, provides smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission replaced the older 6-speed automatic in the XV70 Camry, offering improved fuel economy and acceleration. The transmission’s control logic is tuned for comfortable everyday driving, with a focus on smooth upshifts and downshifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5-liter Camry Automatic delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not a performance-oriented trim, the 203 horsepower and 249 Nm (183.65 lb-ft) of torque provide adequate power for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is typically in the 7.7-8.2 second range. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing decent responsiveness. Compared to the base 2.0-liter engine, the 2.5-liter offers noticeably more power and a more relaxed driving experience, especially when fully loaded or traveling uphill. Compared to the available hybrid models, the 2.5-liter lacks the instant torque and superior fuel economy of the hybrid system, but offers a more conventional driving feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5-liter Camry Automatic was available in several trim levels, including LE, SE, and XLE. The base LE trim typically included features such as Toyota Safety Sense P (pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control), a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The SE trim added sportier styling cues, including a mesh grille, color-keyed rear spoiler, and sport-tuned suspension. The XLE trim offered premium features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a larger touchscreen display, and a premium audio system. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and blind spot monitoring.
Chassis & Braking
The XV70 Camry utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The SE trim featured a slightly stiffer suspension tuning for a more engaging driving experience. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and brake assist. Steering is provided by an electric power steering system, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.5-liter Camry Automatic was widely praised by automotive critics for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong value proposition. It consistently received positive reviews for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Compared to competitors such as the Honda Accord and Mazda 6, the Camry was often seen as a more practical and comfortable choice, although some critics found its styling to be less exciting. Fuel economy figures of around 34 mpg combined were competitive within the mid-size sedan segment. Reliability ratings were consistently high, making it a popular choice for families and commuters.
Legacy
The 2AR-FE engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission have proven to be reliable and durable powertrains. Used XV70 Camrys with this configuration continue to be popular on the used car market due to their reputation for dependability and low maintenance costs. While not a particularly exciting powertrain, it provides a solid foundation for a comfortable and reliable daily driver. The XV70 Camry, particularly the 2.5-liter variant, solidified the Camry’s position as a leader in the mid-size sedan segment, known for its practicality, reliability, and strong resale value.
