2012 Toyota Camry SE: A Giant Leap from the Base Model

Carrie H
Mar 1, 2021

White 2012 Toyota Camry SE With White Background

If you are looking for a comfortable and reliable midsize sedan, you should consider the 2012 Toyota Camry SE. It was completely redesigned for 2012. It isn’t known for a sporty ride, but the SE trim stands out from the rest of the lineup.

What is included in the 2012 Toyota Camry SE?

The SE has two engine options. The 178 horsepower 4-cylinder and the 268 horsepower V6 are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It has ground effects and chrome exhaust. The three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel also adds to the performance look of the sedan.

The 2012 Camry SE is a great choice for a family midsize sedan. We’ll look at the vehicle overall, and the trim. You’ll find out everything you need to know to decide if it’s right for you.

The 2012 Toyota Camry

The Camry has four trim levels. The L is the base trim, followed by the LE. SE is the mid-level trim. The XLE is the top-tier trim.

The Camry has two engine choices. The 2.5L 4-cylinder provides 178 horsepower. Fuel economy is 25 mpg in city conditions and 35 mpg on the highway. The 3.5L V6 has 268 horsepower. This was the highest horsepower for a V6 sedan in 2012. It gets 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

It has a total of 10 airbags. Unfortunately, IHS testing showed the driver’s airbag was ineffective at protecting the driver. IHS gave it a poor rating for driver restraints and small overlap front for the driver’s side. It performed very well in all other crash tests.

NHTSA gave it a five-star safety rating. J.D. Power ranks the Camry as the #1 midsize sedan, beating the Malibu, Accord, and the Altima. U.S. News also ranks the Camry #1 out of 19 midsize cars and gives it a safety rating of 9.3.

Standard features for the L trim include a tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

It also has power windows, mirrors, and door locks.  The electronic power steering has been redesigned to be more responsive.

In addition to aiding steering by requiring less effort at any speed, it has a speed-sensing feature.

Steering requires more effort at lower speeds. This system compensates for that, making it easier to steer at lower speeds without making it too sensitive at higher speeds.

The 2012 Camry SE Trim

The SE trim gets sporty upgrades inside and out. It has a mesh sports grille and ground effects. The 4-cylinder has a single chrome exhaust, and the V6 has a dual chrome exhaust.

It has a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and a leather-wrapped shifter. The seats are synthetic leather, but they can be upgraded to real leather with suede inserts. This is complemented by silver trim.

The paddle shifter allows the driver to shift gears, which makes the driving experience more fun. The suspension is stiffer than the standard Camry. It has nimble handling and the steering is responsive.

Convenience features include push-button start and remote keyless entry, and steering-wheel-mounted controls. Other high-end features are optional on the 4-cylinder model and standard on the V6. This includes the Entune infotainment system, a rear backup camera, and navigation.

Considering the 2012 Camry SE?

Are you sold on the #1 midsize sedan for 2012? Before you decide, check out Vehicle History. You can learn the history of your vehicle by performing a VIN search. You will also find a full list of specs, expert reviews, and reviews from real owners.

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