Having spent years around cars, but surprisingly little time actually driving a Toyota Camry, my perspective was mostly formed by taxi cab rides. This review is my chance to really understand the 2017 Toyota Camry Se – to see beyond the practical reputation and discover if there’s anything more to this popular sedan. Could it offer a spark of excitement, or is it destined to be merely, well, average? Let’s delve into a comprehensive look at the 2017 Toyota Camry SE and see what it truly offers to drivers.
First Impressions: Solid Build Meets Understated Style
Walking around the 2017 Toyota Camry SE, the first thing that strikes you is the feeling of solid construction. Toyota’s renowned reputation for build quality is immediately apparent in the panel gaps and overall fit and finish. However, in terms of visual appeal, the Camry SE plays it safe. “Generic” might be the most accurate descriptor. It’s not unattractive, but it lacks any defining characteristics or eye-catching design elements. It’s a quintessential cookie-cutter sedan. The SE trim attempts to inject some sportiness with additions like a rear spoiler and a black honeycomb front grille, but these enhancements feel more like subtle suggestions rather than a dramatic style overhaul. It’s akin to adding sporty accessories to a car that fundamentally prioritizes practicality over visual flair.
The trunk of the 2017 Toyota Camry SE is impressively spacious and thoughtfully designed. The width behind the wheel wells is particularly generous, maximizing usable space. The flat trunk floor further enhances its practicality. However, the functionality of the folding rear seats is somewhat compromised as they don’t fold completely flat. This also reveals some less refined materials behind the seats, a slight disappointment considering Toyota’s overall build quality focus.
The rear passenger area of the 2017 Toyota Camry SE is genuinely roomy and can comfortably accommodate three adults. However, rear-seat amenities are basic, lacking features like climate control or 12V sockets. The seats themselves, both front and rear, present well with cloth centers, leatherette bolsters, and sporty red accents that extend to the shift boot, steering wheel, and dashboard. Despite the visual appeal, the seats feel noticeably firm and somewhat inexpensive. While not immediately uncomfortable for a short drive, longer journeys or traffic congestion might lead to discomfort, particularly in the lower back.
Stepping into the driver’s seat of the 2017 Toyota Camry SE reinforces the impression of Toyota’s commitment to build quality. The cabin is functional and provides everything necessary, without unnecessary frills. However, the dashboard design and layout are uninspired and lack the engaging feel of a true cockpit. While all controls are large and easily accessible, which might be beneficial for drivers with impaired vision, the overall ambiance is rather bland.
Driving Dynamics: Predictably Average Performance
The driving experience of the 2017 Toyota Camry SE largely mirrors its aesthetic – functional and competent, but lacking any real excitement. It’s a car that performs adequately in all areas without excelling in any. The engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving, comfortably handling a full load of passengers and cargo. Braking and steering are equally competent and effortless. In essence, the driving dynamics can be summed up as thoroughly average.
The inclusion of paddle shifters for a manual shift mode seems somewhat incongruous with the Camry SE’s character. While they offer a brief novelty, they don’t enhance driver engagement or control in a meaningful way. It’s hard to envision the typical Camry driver utilizing this feature regularly. They provide a momentary diversion but ultimately feel disconnected from the car’s overall driving experience.
Lasting Impressions: Sensible Choice Over Sensational Experience
My initial expectations of the 2017 Toyota Camry SE were largely confirmed. It lives up to its reputation as a well-built, reliable, and practical vehicle, but it also reinforces its image as an uninspiring car to drive. It’s a perfectly sensible choice for those prioritizing practicality and dependability over driving thrills or striking aesthetics. If you value a spacious, comfortable ride and are less concerned with dynamic performance or head-turning looks, the Camry SE delivers on its core promises. It’s safe, fuel-efficient, and known for its longevity and strong resale value, making it a financially sound and practical choice.
However, for drivers seeking a more engaging or emotionally resonant driving experience, the 2017 Toyota Camry SE might fall short. There are compelling alternatives in the same price range that offer a more exciting drive, a more refined interior, or a more visually appealing exterior without sacrificing reliability. Models like the Mazda 6, Volkswagen Passat, Kia Optima, Ford Fusion, and even a pre-owned BMW 3-Series present themselves as viable options for those seeking more than just average. Even within its class, the Honda Accord often stands out as a more dynamically engaging alternative. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities, but for those seeking driving excitement, the 2017 Toyota Camry SE might not be the most compelling option.
Our Rating: 2017 Toyota Camry SE
To provide a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of our ratings for the 2017 Toyota Camry SE on a 1-10 scale:
| Feature | Rating | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| Value | 8 | Represents good value for money, strong resale value, and solid build quality. However, more engaging driving experiences can be found at a similar price point. |
| Build Quality | 9 | Toyota’s commitment to quality is evident. Minor cost-cutting in less visible areas is noticeable but doesn’t detract significantly from the overall impression of robust construction. |
| Design/Style | 3 | Generic and uninspired design. Sporty trim additions are superficial and fail to significantly enhance its visual appeal. Lacks a distinctive design identity across generations. |
| Comfort | 6 | Adequate comfort for shorter trips, spacious rear seating, and comfortable suspension. Seat firmness and low-quality foam detract from long-distance comfort and overall tactile experience. |
| Performance/Handling | 3 | Dreadfully average in terms of driving dynamics and engagement. |
| Visibility | 10 | Excellent visibility from the driver’s seat, providing confident sight lines and a clear view of the vehicle’s surroundings. |
| Cargo | 8 | Good trunk capacity with practical width and depth. Non-folding rear seats that don’t lay flat limit its utility for larger cargo items. |
| Overall | 6.5/10 | A perfectly average score for a perfectly average car. A sensible and reliable choice that prioritizes practicality and value over driving excitement and style. |
2017 Toyota Camry SE Specs and Features Highlights
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve
- Horsepower: 178 hp
- Fuel Economy: 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined
- Curb Weight: 3,300 lbs
- Cargo Capacity: 15.4 cu ft
- Seating: 5
The 2017 Toyota Camry offers several trim levels beyond the Hybrid options. The SE trim, positioned third in the lineup, provides a solid array of features, making it a well-rounded choice without needing to opt for the top-tier XSE trim.
Key Features of the SE Trim:
- Halogen headlights with sport trim bezels and daytime running lights
- Black sport mesh front grille
- Heated folding mirrors
- Available moonroof and lighting package
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Rear spoiler, chrome exhaust tips
- Entune audio system with 6-inch touchscreen, MP3/WMA compatibility, 6 speakers, Aux/USB with iPod control
- Optional navigation, premium audio, and app suite (Pandora, Spotify, XM/Sirius)
- Smartphone charging
- Backup camera
- Push-button start
- Sport fabric seats with power driver’s seat and leatherette-style trim
- Leather-trimmed steering wheel with silver accented interior trim
- Optional overhead console with HomeLink
- Standard cupholders for all passengers
Features Exclusive to the XSE Trim (Missing on SE):
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Blind spot monitoring
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Convenience package
- 18-inch alloy wheels
The SE trim level of the 2017 Toyota Camry is generously equipped, offering a compelling balance of features without requiring an upgrade to more expensive trims. It provides sufficient amenities to satisfy most buyers, potentially negating the need to spend extra for premium options.
Conclusion: Practicality and Reliability Reign Supreme
If your primary automotive goals are reliability, strong resale value, and a hassle-free ownership experience, the 2017 Toyota Camry SE delivers admirably. It’s a car built for dependability and practicality, making it a consistently popular choice in the midsize sedan segment. At Miller Toyota, we frequently have a selection of used Toyota Camrys for sale. The Camry remains a staple in the used car market and a testament to its enduring appeal as a sensible and reliable vehicle.
