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2015 Toyota Camry XLE - $23,000

New Ride: 2015 Toyota Camry XLE

I picked up a 2015 Toyota Camry XLE as a replacement for my Lexus IS250. I’m optimistic that the Camry will deliver the famed Toyota reliability, but I’m hedging my bets with a $3,200 extended warranty.

The Camry cost me about $18,000, plus the warranty, bringing the out-the-door price to around $23,000. Yes, it’s a bit high, but this is the top-level trim for the four-cylinder model, and it had only 88,000 miles. The previous owner also did oil changes every 5,000 miles or six months, which is a big plus. Although Toyota advertised the 2AR engines could go 10,000 miles or a year between oil changes, I believe in sticking to 5,000 miles or six months.

I did the math, and no matter how I spin it, the monthly cost to own any reasonable car was going to be about $350-$400. The Camry hits the high end of that range.

Specs - 2015 Camry XLE

  • Engine: 2.5L - 4 Cylinder - 2AR-FE
    • HP: 178 @ 6000
    • Torque: 170 @ 4100
  • Transmission: 6 Speed
  • Performance:
    • 0-60: 7.9 seconds
    • 1/4 Mile: 16.2 seconds @ 88 mph
  • EPA MPG: 25 City / 35 Highway
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 190.9 inches
    • Wheelbase: 109.3 inches
    • Height: 57.9 inches
    • Width (w/o mirrors): 71.7 inches
  • Key Battery: CR2032

First Impressions — Old Reliable

Eh…it’s a Camry, and it provides a smooth and reliable ride. Acceleration is modest at 8 seconds for 0-60, which is one second slower than the IS250. The 1/4 mile time of 16.2 seconds is also one second slower than the IS250, which is kind of disappointing since the IS250 was already slow to begin with.

However, with port injectors on a solid 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the ride is smoother than the similarly sized direct-injection V6 in the IS250, which could eventually suffer from carbon buildup.

The eight-year gap (2007 vs. 2015) makes a world of difference in technology. The Camry comes equipped with all the tech I need, including Bluetooth, GPS, a rear camera, and blind spot indicators. The doors auto-lock and unlock like the Lexus, which is one of my favorite features.

The downsides: The turning radius is wide due to the inherent nature of front-wheel drive, and the engine acceleration leaves something to be desired. However, it’s much better than the IS250, which suffered from carbon buildup hesitation and engine misfires.

The Camry offers tons of space and luxurious leather seats. While they aren’t as soft and supple as the Lexus, they are firm and feel good. I’ll learn more about the Camry as I take it further afield on road trips.

Maintenance Schedule

  • Oil Change: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months
  • Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  • Cabin Air Filter: Every 12 months
  • Engine Air Filter: Every 12 months

Multi-Year

  • Transmission Fluid Change: Every 50,000 miles
  • Engine Coolant Flush: Every 5 years
  • New Tires: Every 40,000-50,000 miles or 6 years
  • Wheel Alignment: Every 2 years
  • Brakes & Rotors: Every 30,000-50,000 miles
  • Brake Fluid Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years
  • Battery: Every 4-5 years
  • Windshield Wipers: Every 12-18 months

As Needed

  • Shocks & Struts: 100,000 miles?
  • Control Arm Bushings: 100,000 miles?
  • Power Steering Flush: Every 4 years?
  • CV Boots?

Don’t Need

  • Transfer Case: Only for AWD models
  • Rear Differential: Only for AWD models

Planned Retirement 2030

I’m aiming to extend the Camry’s service life to 15 years (2015 - 2030). It might be ambitious, but with its reliable 4-cylinder engine and rock-solid 6-speed transmission, I’m hopeful it will hold up—and that repair costs will stay manageable.

This plan also helps stagger my vehicle replacements. I intend to retire my 2016 Highlander in 2028, giving me a few years before I need to replace the Camry in 2030.

 






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