The 2023 Toyota Camry AWD XLE or XSE with the 2.5L 4-cylinder gets 28 MPG combined, which is a decent figure. However, it may not be the main reason someone chooses this configuration. It’s about year-round usability and peace of mind without a huge sacrifice at the pump. The Camry AWD buyer wants traction and predictable handling in bad weather and accepts a slight MPG decrease for it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Camry AWD XLE/XSE at 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the added weight and complexity of the all-wheel-drive system matter. The highway figure is better, showing the efficiency of the 2.5L engine when cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps here, allowing the engine to operate at lower RPMs for better fuel economy on long drives. These numbers are respectable, but driving style and conditions will change actual fuel use.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates an annual fuel cost of $1,550 for the 2023 Toyota Camry AWD XLE/XSE. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark, but individual costs will change based on local fuel prices and driving habits. If you drive mainly in the city or drive aggressively, expect to exceed this estimate. If you do mostly highway driving and drive conservatively, you might save some money.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good start, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2023 Camry AWD frequently report figures close to the EPA estimates, but variations happen based on driving conditions and terrain. Expect slightly lower numbers in hilly areas or during winter, when the engine is working harder and the all-wheel-drive system is engaged more. Regular maintenance, including proper tire inflation and timely oil changes, can help keep optimal fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The Camry’s AWD system lowers fuel economy compared to its front-wheel-drive versions. The front-wheel-drive Camry with the same 2.5L engine gets an EPA-estimated 32 MPG combined, showing the trade-off for all-weather capability.

Looking outside the Camry family, the Subaru Legacy, with its standard all-wheel-drive system, offers slightly better fuel economy, with models hitting closer to 30 MPG combined. However, the Legacy lacks the Camry’s reputation for longevity. The Nissan Altima AWD, another competitor, lands roughly in the same ballpark as the Camry, around 29 MPG combined. For the buyer considering this specific Camry, the all-wheel-drive system is a must-have, so comparing it to purely front-wheel-drive vehicles is irrelevant. They’re willing to sacrifice a few MPGs for the added confidence.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to saving fuel in any car, but particularly with a four-cylinder engine strained under heavy throttle. Avoid aggressive starts and sudden stops to lower fuel use. Pay attention to the road ahead and anticipate traffic flow to keep a smooth and consistent speed.

Regularly check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure. Using the correct tire pressure will improve fuel efficiency and extend the life of your tires.

Reduce unnecessary weight inside the vehicle. Extra cargo adds weight, forcing the engine to work harder. Remove items you don’t need to carry regularly, such as sports equipment or tools, to improve fuel economy.

Consider using the Camry’s ECO mode, if equipped. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. It may slightly reduce acceleration but can affect fuel consumption, especially during city driving.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other services to ensure optimal performance and fuel economy. You can explore all Toyota fuel economy data, including the CAMRY MPG across all years to understand historical MPG trends.