A couple of years ago, Toyota unveiled a new generation Camry. It was more of a reskin on the same platform, yet they shook everything else up.
Since then, we have been seeing our share of the new Camry. Curious enough to have our patience fulfilled when we received this 2026 Toyota Camry XSE AWD. We also found the right weather to test its all-season traction system.
The exterior design of the new generation Camry is sharper. The overall profile retains some of the qualities of previous generations, but with more focus on infusing more sporty looks overall. The front end follows current Toyota design with edge front, “C” shaped LED driving lamps surround an LED headlamp on each side. Sport models – SE and XSE – have a painted eggcrate grille and canards on each side integrated into the front facia. 
The glass profile was sharpened up with more angles framed by a rakish roofline. The rear has the same “C” shape design for the LED taillights.
Our XSE tester adds a small lip spoiler on the trunk with black badging, A set of 19-inch dark gray finished alloy wheels finish up the aggressive look of this 2026 Camry.
To match the exterior, the newest generation Camry sports a more intuitive cabin. The driver is greeted with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that is clean with plenty of information available. In the middle is a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that us very useful for connectivity and information, The materials felt elevated and the controls remain tactile throughout the cabin.
XSE models have an option to choose red leather, as in our tester. Front seats balance comfort and support, while rear seat room remains spacious. Trunk space is accommodating with 15.1 cubic feet available. The rear seatbacks fold down for longer items. 
Every 2026 Camry is powered by a hybrid driveline. It starts with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, two electric motors – one at each axle – and a continuously variable transmission. The two motors work as an electronic all-wheel drive system, In total, this driveline is rated at a combined net 232 horsepower.
One thing that we love about the 2026 Camry’s hybrid driveline is how it performed. The power take-off was fantastic and the transition between gas and electric power was seamless. Highway cruising was equally enjoyable. As for fuel economy, we achieved an average of…
The one thing the Toyota Camry keeps on improving upon is the driving experience. It was smoother than before with more compliancy on rougher surfaces. The handling was equally smooth. We found that the Camry yielded no roll or lean through then turns. It was also composed during evasive maneuvers. Since we had some snow fall during our time with this Camry, we were pleased with its poise as it gripped through winter conditions.
Steering was also pretty good, with some solid maneuvering from the wheel to put it into place. Overall, on-center feel was spot on. The brakes were also pretty good. They also improved upon pedal feel and response. We experienced great stops in normal, panic, and winter situations. 
There are four trim levels available on the 2026 Toyota Camry lineup, with every one available in either front- or all-wheel drive. Pricing starts from $29,000. Our XSE all-wheel drive tester came with a sticker price of $45,096.
It has been said that the mid-size sedan market is almost gone. With the 2026 Camry, it is still alive and attracting customers. There are still some choices left in the segment, including the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia K5.
If you had a certain image about what the Toyota Camry is all about, be prepared to have them shattered. This 2026 edition – especially the XSE with all-wheel drive – will not just surprise you. It will be one engaging sedan you would be proud to own.
