2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid Review – Is It Still the King of Sedans?

Camry’s Legacy – A Sedan Icon Reimagined

For decades, the Toyota Camry has been a household name across Australian driveways. Known for its reliability, efficiency, and refined drive, the Camry has led the midsize sedan category. In 2025, as electrification and SUVs dominate the automotive scene, Toyota has doubled down with the all-new 2025 Camry Hybrid – a model blending efficiency, comfort, and a fresh design language.

But does it still deserve its spot as the king of sedans? In this extensive review, we’ll explore every detail of the 2025 Camry Hybrid – including design, performance, technology, comfort, fuel economy, safety features, and how it stacks up against its growing list of rivals in the hybrid and non-hybrid space.

What's New in the 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid?

Updated Styling and Platform

The 2025 Camry sits on Toyota’s updated TNGA-K platform, bringing better rigidity and dynamics. The exterior styling is now more sculpted, aerodynamic, and clearly inspired by the Prius and Crown design language.

Key exterior changes include:

• A sleeker LED headlight cluster with DRLs
• Refreshed trapezoidal grille
• Streamlined rear end with full-width LED light bar
• New aerodynamic 18–19-inch alloy wheels

Toyota has trimmed the V6 and petrol-only variants, making the Hybrid drivetrain standard across the Australian range.

Interior Overhaul

Step inside, and you’ll find:

• A massive 12.3-inch touchscreen in higher trims
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• New digital instrument cluster
• Premium soft-touch materials and ambient lighting
• More spacious rear legroom due to smarter packaging

The 2025 Camry Hybrid’s cabin feels much more upmarket and tech-savvy than its predecessor.

Engine, Hybrid Tech, and Performance

The Camry Hybrid now features Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system, pairing a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors.

Power & Output:

• Combined Power: 168 kW
• Transmission: e-CVT
• 0–100 km/h: ~7.6 seconds
• Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive

It’s not a sports sedan, but acceleration is smooth and confident, and the torque delivery is instant thanks to the electric motor. The hybrid system feels more refined, quieter, and transitions seamlessly between EV and petrol modes.

Drive Impressions:

• Steering is well-weighted for city and highway use
• The suspension offers a cushioned ride over bumps
• Good handling dynamics for a family-oriented sedan

It strikes a balance between comfort and predictability, making it perfect for daily commuting or long-distance cruising.

Fuel Efficiency – A Major Win for Aussies

Here’s where the Camry Hybrid truly shines. With fuel prices fluctuating across Australia, a hybrid sedan offering excellent economy without plug-in hassles is gold.

Official Fuel Economy (ADR Cycle):

• 4.2L/100km (combined)
• 4.5L/100km (urban)
• 3.9L/100km (highway)

Real-World Driving:

Test drives show averages around 4.4–4.6L/100km, depending on driving style and terrain. That’s better than many compact cars, let alone mid-size sedans.

With a 50-litre fuel tank, you can easily expect over 1,000 km range per fill – ideal for road trips and inner-city errands alike.

Trim Levels in Australia – What You Get

In Australia, the 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid is offered in four key trims:

1. Camry Ascent Hybrid (Base)

• 17" wheels
• 7" infotainment
• Cloth seats
• Toyota Safety Sense
• Smart entry & push start

2. Camry Ascent Sport Hybrid

• 18" alloy wheels
• Larger 10.1" touchscreen
• Satellite navigation
• Sportier body kit

3. Camry SX Hybrid

• 19" wheels
• Leather-accented sports seats
• Paddle shifters
• Premium JBL audio

4. Camry SL Hybrid (Top-Spec)

• 12.3" infotainment & digital cluster
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ventilated front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Head-up display
• Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

Interior Comfort & Space

The 2025 Camry has one of the most spacious cabins in its class.

• Rear legroom: Among the best in segment
• Boot space: ~524 litres (non-intrusive hybrid battery)
• Seat comfort: Plush cushioning and support

The hybrid battery now sits under the rear seat, preserving boot practicality, unlike earlier models.

Cabin Highlights:

• Dual-zone climate control standard on mid-high trims
• Rear air vents, USB-C charging ports
• Optional sunroof adds light and airiness
• Quiet ride thanks to enhanced insulation

Tech & Connectivity

Toyota’s infotainment system has leapt forward in 2025. It’s now intuitive, responsive, and genuinely competitive.

Features include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
• Connected Services (vehicle tracking, remote start)
• Digital key (on SL variant)
• Over-the-air software updates
• Wireless phone charger
• 9-speaker JBL sound system (SX and above)

The tech is finally modern without overwhelming less tech-savvy drivers.

Safety – 5-Star Confidence

Safety has always been a Camry strength, and the 2025 model continues this tradition with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating (expected).

Standard Safety Features:

• AEB with pedestrian/cyclist detection
• Lane departure warning + Lane Trace Assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Reversing camera + parking sensors
• 10 airbags

Higher trims also get:

• Panoramic view monitor
• Parking assist
• Safe exit assist

It’s a family-first sedan with safety tech that rivals even some SUVs.

How Does It Compare to Rivals?

Here’s how the Camry Hybrid stacks up against key competitors in Australia:

The Camry remains the best-rounded, especially with Toyota’s reputation for hybrid reliability and extensive dealer network.

Ownership, Warranty & Maintenance

Toyota offers peace of mind with:

• 5-year unlimited km warranty
• 8-year battery warranty
• Capped-price servicing ($265–$295 per visit) every 15,000km

Annual costs remain low, making it ideal for families or commuters. Hybrid systems also reduce wear on brakes and engine, translating into lower long-term maintenance.

Final Verdict – Is It Still the King of Sedans?

While SUVs dominate headlines and car sales, the 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid quietly reminds us why sedans still matter. With its:

• Outstanding fuel economy
• Refined hybrid performance
• Class-leading safety and tech
• Practical space and proven reliability

…it remains a smart, polished and fuel-efficient sedan for Australians who value comfort, low running costs, and proven dependability.

Pros:

✅ Superb fuel efficiency
✅ Spacious and refined interior
✅ Latest hybrid tech and infotainment
✅ Excellent safety suite
✅ Smooth and quiet ride

Cons:

❌ No all-wheel-drive option
❌ Conservative styling compared to Sonata or K5
❌ Slightly less sporty than turbo rivals