2024 Toyota Camry: How Realistic Is the Starting Price?
The Toyota Camry has retained its crown as the best-selling midsize sedan in the U.S. for over two decades — and for good reason. The Camry is well-rounded, has agreeable pricing, a respectable list of features throughout its range, a selection of models to choose from, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. The 2024 Camry starts at $27,515 MSRP with destination, but is that a realistic price to pay, or should buyers expect to dish out a lot more dough for a model that fits their wants and needs?
2024 Toyota Camry: How we’d spec it
The 2024 Toyota Camry is available as a hybrid, and for budget-conscious shoppers, the hybridized powertrain is certainly appealing — the base Camry LE Hybrid is rated for 52 combined mpg. However, for the sake of this discussion, we’ll be sticking with the gas-only model.
The non-hybrid 2024 Camry is available in six trims, ranging from the base LE with an MSRP of $26,420 (without destination) to the performance-tuned TRD, which commands $33,485. The upper-tier XLE and XSE models can be had with the same 301-horsepower V6 from the TRD, with prices starting at around $36,000 for either model.
With a focus on saving dollars, we’d stick with the Camry’s standard 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine, but we’d skip the base LE and spend more on the mid-range XLE, which carries a starting MSRP of $31,170.
The XLE trim adds plenty of desirable features for the money, particularly for those using their Camry as a family hauler or everyday commuter. The XLE features upgrades like larger wheels (18-inch versus the base 17-inch units), genuine leather upholstery (versus cloth/synthetic leather in lower models), and a 9-inch touchscreen replacing the standard 7-inch unit. The XLE also sports keyless entry and push-button start, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, heated front seats, a wireless charging pad, rear air vents, and a larger driver information display. Additional driver aids include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality and blind-spot warning.
Three optional packages are available for the XLE, including a panoramic glass roof ($1,360), onboard navigation ($1,760), or both features with a head-up display, 360-degree view monitor, and a parking assist system for $4,550. A bevy of accessories is also available, but we’d skip them all and keep our upgraded-over-base Camry more budget-friendly.
All-in, an XLE model with no additional options costs $32,265, with the destination fee included. That’s a significant step up from the base MSRP, but given the additional kit offered, the mid-range model is still a value proposition.
So, how does this compare with what you get with the standard 2024 Camry?
Standard features of the base 2024 Toyota Camry
The 2024 Toyota Camry LE isn’t necessarily a bare-bones sedan but is far more basic than our outfitted XLE.
As standard, the LE trim is fitted with the same powertrain with smaller wheels, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and LED headlights. Standard safety features include automatic forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control (without stop-and-go), automatic high beams, and road sign recognition.
With a $27,515 MSRP, with the destination fee included, an options-free Camry LE is undoubtedly attractive on the price sheet. However, the $4,750 upcharge for the XLE carries so many additional features that it’s easy to argue the added dollars are worth the price of admission to the higher-end model.
Another reason to spring for the Camry XLE is some of Toyota’s competitors offer more bang for the buck for their base midsize sedans. The Kia K5, for instance, comes with a more robust list of standard features and driver aids, has far superior warranty coverage, and costs exactly $1,000 less than the base Camry.
Ultimately, the Camry’s base MSRP of $27,515 with destination is appealing, but for overall value, buyers should expect to pay more to get the best bang for their buck.
