The Toyota Camry VIII (XV70), particularly the facelifted 2020-2024 model year equipped with the 2.5-liter 203 horsepower engine and ECT-i 8-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant evolution in Toyota’s mid-size sedan offering. Introduced as a refresh to the already successful XV70 generation, this variant aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort for the North American market, where the Camry consistently ranks among the best-selling vehicles. This configuration occupied a sweet spot in the Camry lineup, serving as the primary volume seller, positioned above the base 2.5-liter engine and below the hybrid models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Camry |
| Generation | Camry VIII (XV70, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (203 Hp) ECT-i |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | SULEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| 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 | A25A-FKS |
| 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 | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i, VVT-iE |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1501-1533 kg (3309.14 – 3379.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 428 l (15.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4880 mm (192.13 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm (111.22 in.) |
| Front track | 1580-1590 mm (62.2 – 62.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1590-1595 mm (62.6 – 62.8 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, 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, 305 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 281 mm |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2020-2024 Toyota Camry 2.5 (203 Hp) ECT-i is a front-wheel-drive, four-door sedan that represents the eighth generation (XV70) of Toyota’s globally renowned Camry. The facelift introduced in 2020 brought revised styling, updated technology, and enhanced safety features. Built on the TNGA-K (Toyota New Global Architecture – K platform), this Camry variant aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience while maintaining the model’s reputation for reliability and practicality. The ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent) 8-speed automatic transmission was a key component, designed to optimize fuel efficiency and provide smooth gear changes.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Camry variant lies the A25A-FKS 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system, combining direct injection and port injection to maximize combustion efficiency and power output. The engine also features a dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-iE) system on the intake side and VVT-i on the exhaust side, further optimizing engine performance across the rev range. The 8-speed ECT-i automatic transmission is a torque-converter type, offering a wide range of gear ratios to balance acceleration and fuel economy. It features a lock-up torque converter for improved efficiency at cruising speeds. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift patterns based on driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 203 horsepower and 183 lb-ft of torque provided by the 2.5-liter engine and 8-speed automatic transmission deliver adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration is smooth and linear, though not particularly sporty. The ECT-i transmission is generally responsive, offering quick downshifts when needed. Compared to the base 2.0-liter Camry, this variant provides noticeably more power, making highway merging and overtaking easier. However, it doesn’t match the more spirited performance of the optional V6 engine. The transmission’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, sometimes resulting in the engine feeling slightly strained during aggressive acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for comfortable cruising, with a relatively tall final drive.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5-liter Camry typically came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), which incorporates pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. Interior features included a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a backup camera, and automatic climate control. Higher trim levels, such as the XLE and XSE, added features like leather upholstery, a larger touchscreen display, a premium audio system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included a panoramic glass roof, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Chassis & Braking
The Camry XV70 utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and brake assist are standard. The steering system is an electric power steering (EPS) system, providing light and precise steering feel. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2020-2024 Camry 2.5 (203 Hp) ECT-i was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety features. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with the EPA-estimated 31.8 mpg combined making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Compared to the V6 Camry, the 2.5-liter variant offered a more affordable price point and better fuel efficiency, albeit with less performance. Compared to competitors like the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima, the Camry was often cited as being more reliable and offering a more refined driving experience.
Legacy
The A25A-FKS engine and ECT-i transmission pairing have proven to be reliable and durable. The Camry, in general, maintains a strong reputation for long-term dependability, and this variant is no exception. On the used car market, these Camrys hold their value relatively well, due to their reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs. Common issues are relatively minor, often related to routine maintenance items like oil leaks or sensor failures. The 8-speed automatic transmission has proven to be a robust unit, with few reported issues. This Camry continues to be a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable and fuel-efficient mid-size sedan.
