They’ve gone so hard advertising the Camry as a sporty sedan. Available with 300hp v6, AWD, and even a TRD trim. The latest generation had great reviews and praised for engaging and responsive driving while still being comfortable.

It could’ve been a competitor to the WRX, with a more refined interior, arguably better looking exterior, Toyota reliability, and avoiding the vape-bro stereotype. Except that they didn’t even have AWD as an option on the TRD. Granted, the AWD on the Camry can only send up to 50% power to the rear, and is much less useful in real world scenarios than the WRX, I think just having the badge helps when you’re marketing yourself as a sporty sedan. And most people who care about 300hp don’t want it all going to the front wheels.

My first thought was not wanting to compete with the Lexus IS 350, but there’s a > $10,000 price difference, and the Lexus is marketed as more of a sporty luxury car.

Now the latest news is that 2025 Camries will be hybrid only, with optional AWD and 232hp, and a CVT transmission. Are they going to stick with the commercials featuring spirited driving, or abandon that market?

What other sporty daily driver sedans are out there?

Side note, found this great commercial from the 1989 v6 Camry