The 2023 Toyota Camry LE/SE with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine gets 32 MPG combined, which is ideal for many American drivers. It’s not a hybrid promising very high numbers, and it’s not a gas-guzzling SUV. It’s a Camry: a reliable, comfortable, and affordable sedan that offers excellent fuel economy for its size and purpose. This MPG appeals to budget-conscious buyers who prioritize dependability and low running costs. They accept 32 MPG because it’s part of a well-rounded package that delivers practicality without being too expensive.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2023 Camry LE/SE 2.5L are 28 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway. That highway number is particularly relevant for commuters who spend a lot of time driving on interstates. The 2.5L engine, with its smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission (S8), allows for easy cruising at highway speeds without using too much fuel. In urban environments, the 28 MPG provides respectable efficiency for stop-and-go driving. This balance is critical to the Camry’s appeal. It’s genuinely usable in diverse driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Toyota Camry LE/SE 2.5L at $1,350. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s important for potential buyers because it estimates how much they can expect to spend on fuel each year. For families or individuals on a budget, controlling fuel costs is a major factor, and $1,350 per year is a good reason to choose the Camry over less efficient cars.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a standard comparison, but real-world fuel economy can change depending on driving habits, traffic, and even weather. Quick acceleration, frequent hard braking, and long idling will hurt fuel consumption. However, smooth driving, consistent speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you reach or exceed the EPA estimates. Drivers who want better fuel efficiency and drive carefully are likely to get close to 39 MPG on the highway, while those who accelerate more quickly will see lower numbers. Like any vehicle, anticipating traffic and keeping a steady pace are key to using less gas.

How it compares

The Camry’s fuel economy compares well to other mid-size sedans. The Honda Accord LX, for example, gets 32 MPG combined (30 city/38 highway), similar to the Camry. The Nissan Altima S also offers 32 MPG combined (28 city/39 highway), and the Hyundai Sonata SE reaches 32 MPG Combined (28 city/38 highway). The Camry’s fuel economy doesn’t sacrifice performance or comfort. Some competitors get slightly higher MPG but may have less interior space, a rougher ride, or be less reliable. The Mazda 6, which once combined driving dynamics and fuel efficiency (29 MPG combined), is no longer made, which strengthens the Camry’s market position. Buyers often compare these cars, and the Camry’s reputation for lasting a long time and having low running costs, plus its fuel economy, often makes it the better choice. You can explore all Toyota fuel economy data to see how other Toyota models compare.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Accelerate gently to save fuel. The Camry’s 2.5L engine provides enough power, but avoid accelerating hard from a stop. Smooth acceleration uses less fuel and helps the engine run most efficiently. Watch for traffic lights and adjust your speed to avoid braking and accelerating unnecessarily.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which are on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Correct tire pressure also improves handling and extends tire life.

Avoid idling unnecessarily. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel. Long idling is especially bad in cities where frequent stops are common.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes fuel usage. Set the cruise control to the speed limit and let the car manage the throttle. This works best on long highway trips where consistent speeds are easier to maintain. Be aware of changing traffic and turn off cruise control when needed.

Get routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and functioning spark plugs help the engine perform well and use fuel efficiently. Ignoring maintenance can decrease fuel economy and cause mechanical problems. See your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule. Research CAMRY MPG across all years to compare.