For years, the Toyota Camry has carried a reputation for being a practical but unexciting vehicle. Many driving enthusiasts have dismissed the entire Camry lineup as simply reliable transportation, lacking any real driving appeal. However, the 2012 Toyota Camry Se aims to challenge this perception, offering a sportier take on the popular sedan. Those who looked beyond the Camry stereotype at the 2007-2011 Camry SE models discovered a surprisingly responsive suspension and, especially with the V6 engine, a smooth and powerful driving experience. The question is, does the 2012 Camry SE continue this trend and offer enough to win over driving enthusiasts in the competitive sedan market? Let’s delve into a detailed review of the 2012 Toyota Camry SE to find out.
Exterior Styling of the 2012 Camry SE: A Sportier Edge
The 2012 Camry SE distinguishes itself from the standard Camry models with unique exterior styling cues. Toyota has once again given the SE trim a bespoke exterior, setting it apart visually. While the side skirts are less pronounced compared to the previous generation, the front fascia is noticeably more aggressive. A key improvement is the replacement of the regular Camry’s chrome grille with a more sporty design, a welcome change for those seeking a less traditional look.
The four-cylinder SE models feature five-spoke alloy wheels that some might consider slightly undersized. However, the V6 variant boasts racier 18-inch wheels that better fill the wheel arches, enhancing the car’s sporty stance. These larger wheels contribute to a more planted and visually appealing look, especially in person. Overall, the exterior tweaks for the 2012 SE result in a more attractive Camry, although it still might not ignite passionate desire in all car enthusiasts. Some may even prefer the more complex styling of the 2011 model, but the 2012 SE certainly presents a more dynamic face than the standard Camry.
Interior and Comfort: Blacked-Out and Bolstered for Sport
Inside the cabin, the 2012 Camry SE maintains its sporty theme. While standard Camry interiors offer beige and gray color options, the SE continues with an exclusive black interior. This dark theme, previously used in the 2007-2011 Camry SE to mask less premium plastics, remains a welcome choice in the 2012 model, contributing to a more focused and sporty ambiance. While the interior plastics are improved in the 2012 Camry overall, the black interior in the SE trim still provides a sophisticated feel.
However, the standout feature of the 2012 Camry SE interior is undoubtedly the front seats. Unlike the standard Camry’s seats, which lack significant lateral support, the SE’s seats are designed with larger, more pronounced side bolsters. These bolsters effectively cradle the lower torso, providing enhanced support during cornering and spirited driving. A power-lumbar adjustment also comes standard in the SE, addressing the lack of lower back support in the base LE trim. A minor drawback is the absence of rear air vents in the SE, a feature reserved for the higher-end XLE model. On a positive note, unlike the previous year’s model, the 2012 Camry SE features a folding rear seat, expanding trunk space and adding practicality to the sporty trim.
Engine and Performance: Four-Cylinder Efficiency vs. V6 Power
The 2012 Toyota Camry SE offers two engine choices: a 178-horsepower four-cylinder and a more potent 268-horsepower V6. The four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for daily driving and delivers decent motivation for the Camry’s size. However, its engine note may not be inspiring for driving enthusiasts seeking a more engaging experience. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency and everyday usability, the four-cylinder is a capable choice.
For driving enthusiasts, the 268-horsepower V6 engine is the clear winner. While the V6 remained unchanged from 2007, it continues to impress with its smooth, effortless power delivery, surpassing competitors in terms of sound and feel, especially compared to turbocharged four-cylinder options. Despite a slight increase in the final drive ratio, the 2012 Camry SE V6 maintains similar acceleration performance to the previous model, while shedding approximately 63 pounds of curb weight, resulting in a lighter 3,420 pounds. The V6 transforms the Camry SE into a genuinely quick and enjoyable sedan.
Side profile of a 2012 Toyota Camry SE V6 highlighting its sporty stance and larger alloy wheels
Fuel Economy: Leading Efficiency with the Four-Cylinder
Fuel economy is a significant consideration for many car buyers, and the 2012 Toyota Camry excels in this area, particularly with the four-cylinder engine. The four-cylinder Camry SE achieves impressive EPA ratings of 25 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway, making it a leader in its segment for fuel efficiency. The V6 model, while offering significantly more power, understandably has lower fuel economy ratings of 21 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. While the V6’s fuel economy is respectable, it doesn’t quite match the figures of some competitors’ turbocharged engines, such as the Hyundai Sonata 2.0T. However, for drivers prioritizing fuel savings, the four-cylinder 2012 Camry SE is an excellent choice.
Ride and Handling: A Balance of Comfort and Sport
Toyota made adjustments to the suspension tuning for the 2012 Camry lineup, including the SE model. The standard Camry models received slightly firmer suspension and improved suspension geometry, resulting in enhanced handling precision and control compared to previous generations. Interestingly, the 2012 Camry SE’s suspension has been softened compared to the 2007 SE, making the ride less firm and more comfortable for daily driving.
As a result of these changes, the handling difference between the standard Camry and the SE is less dramatic than before. While the SE still offers marginally tauter handling and improved precision compared to the regular Camry and previous generation SE, the step up in sportiness is less pronounced. Much of the handling difference comes down to tire choice. The SE models are equipped with Michelin Primacy tires (17-inch with the four-cylinder, 18-inch with the V6), which offer superior grip in corners compared to the standard Camry’s Michelin Energy tires. However, the SE’s tires do transmit more road noise and firmness over road imperfections. While the 2012 Camry SE offers improved handling over previous generations, it still prioritizes a balance of comfort and sport, rather than outright performance.
Close-up of the 2012 Toyota Camry SE's sporty alloy wheels and Michelin Primacy tires, highlighting the handling focused components
Steering and Overall Driving Dynamics: Engine Choice Matters
The engine choice in the 2012 Camry SE significantly impacts the car’s driving dynamics. The V6 engine adds approximately 180 pounds to the front of the car, and this weight difference is noticeable in the steering feel. The steering in the V6 model feels heavier, although it remains muted in terms of feedback. This added weight provides a sense of solidity and stability, but it also makes the V6 model feel less agile and nimble compared to the four-cylinder SE.
Like all 2012 Camrys, the silky smooth low-speed feel that was a hallmark of previous generations is less evident. This change is likely a result of Toyota’s efforts to improve fuel economy, handling, and reduce costs. Overall, the 2012 Toyota Camry SE offers a more controlled and precise driving experience compared to its predecessors, but it might not fully satisfy enthusiasts seeking a truly engaging and communicative driving experience.
Conclusion: A Step Forward, But Still a Camry at Heart
The 2012 Toyota Camry SE represents a clear improvement over the 2011 model. The interior is significantly upgraded, body control is enhanced, and fuel economy is improved, particularly with the four-cylinder engine, aligning with Toyota’s primary focus for this redesign. However, some of the chassis refinement and signature Camry smoothness have been sacrificed in the pursuit of these improvements.
The biggest consideration for driving enthusiasts is the car’s character. The four-cylinder SE is competent and controlled, but ultimately feels soulless and uninspiring, especially when paired with the somewhat buzzy engine. The V6 engine injects a dose of excitement and power, but its added weight seems to slightly diminish the car’s handling agility. While handling might be a top priority for some, the SE V6 remains the more appealing choice for those seeking a balance of sportiness and everyday usability within the Camry lineup. Even for non-enthusiasts not interested in the hybrid model, the SE’s more supportive seats alone might justify the upgrade.
Ultimately, the 2012 Toyota Camry SE is a better car overall, offering a sportier appearance and driving experience than the standard Camry. However, it still faces the challenge of overcoming the Camry’s long-standing reputation as a purely practical and unexciting vehicle. While the 2012 SE is a step in the right direction, it may not be enough to convert die-hard driving enthusiasts who are fundamentally opposed to the Camry brand. Toyota’s own marketing, emphasizing safety, dependability, and economy, might inadvertently hinder the SE’s appeal to performance-oriented buyers. The 2012 Toyota Camry SE is a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable, reliable, and slightly sporty sedan, but true driving enthusiasts might still look elsewhere for a more engaging and passionate driving experience.
Rear three-quarter view of a 2012 Toyota Camry SE showcasing its sporty rear styling and taillights
Interior view of a 2012 Toyota Camry SE highlighting its black interior and sporty seats with side bolsters
Dashboard view of a 2012 Toyota Camry SE showing the instrument cluster and center console
Front seats of a 2012 Toyota Camry SE emphasizing the enhanced side bolsters for better support
Close-up of the 2012 Toyota Camry SE's sporty alloy wheels and Michelin Primacy tires, highlighting the handling focused components
