The Toyota Camry has long stood as a symbol of reliability, fuel efficiency, and smooth performance in the midsize sedan segment. Over the years, its engine lineup has evolved to meet modern expectations of fuel economy and emissions standards — often at the cost of raw power. While previous generations offered V6 powertrains that delivered a thrilling driving experience, recent iterations have leaned heavily on four-cylinder engines and hybrid setups.
So, with the release of the 2025 Toyota Camry on the horizon, many car enthusiasts and loyal Camry owners are asking one burning question: Will the 2025 Camry have a V6 engine? In this detailed article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the potential return of the V6 Camry, Toyota’s engine strategy, market trends, and what this could mean for drivers.
Overview of the 2025 Toyota Camry
The 2025 Toyota Camry is expected to continue the legacy of its 2024 counterpart — an elegant, tech-laden sedan that balances performance and comfort. As one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States, the Camry caters to a wide audience, including families, professionals, and rental fleets.
Toyota has yet to officially unveil the full 2025 Camry line-up, but based on current trends and historical patterns, we can make educated predictions about its engine options. Currently, the 2024 Camry offers two primary engine choices:
- 2.5L Inline-4 (203 horsepower)
- 2.4L Turbocharged Inline-4 (268 horsepower — SE and XSE trims)
Additionally, there is a hybrid version available featuring a 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, optimized for fuel efficiency.
History of the Camry’s V6 Engine Option
The V6 engine was once a staple of the Camry lineup. From the 2002 model year through 2019 (in some variations), Toyota offered a 3.5L V6 engine across select Camry trims. Known for its robust performance and smooth output, the V6 was especially popular in higher trim models such as the XLE, XSE, and SE.
Key performance stats for the last-generation Toyota Camry V6 (3.5L) included:
| Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | No. of Cylinders | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 301 hp | 267 lb-ft | 6 | 8-speed automatic |
The Shift Away from the V6
Toyota discontinued the V6 engine for the Camry after the 2019 model year in response to tightening emissions regulations and consumer demand for improved fuel economy. The shift was in line with industry trends that saw most automakers embracing four-cylinder and hybrid technologies.
However, this move left many performance-oriented buyers disappointed, as the V6 offered a level of acceleration and driving engagement that the four-cylinder Camry couldn’t match.
Will the 2025 Toyota Camry Bring Back the V6?
At this time, Toyota has not announced a V6 option for the 2025 Toyota Camry. However, speculation persists due to the introduction of the powerful 2.4L turbocharged engine across SE and XSE trims. While this setup offers impressive output for a four-cylinder (268 hp and 350 lb-ft), it does not match the raw torque and smoothness of a V6 unit.
There are a few key reasons why Toyota may not bring back the V6:
Emissions Regulations and Fuel Economy Goals
Strict federal emissions standards have forced many manufacturers to phase out large-displacement engines. Without significant advances in emission-reducing technology, a traditional V6 might not meet environmental compliance standards for the 2025 model year.
Focus on Electrification and Hybrids
Toyota is doubling down on electrification in 2025, offering plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid options across multiple models. This aligns with the company’s long-term vision, where internal combustion engines are supported or replaced by hybrid or fully electric systems.
Industry Trend: Turbocharging Over Larger Displacement
Many automakers have moved away from producing V6 engines in favor of turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Why? Turbo engines can deliver power closer to that of a six-cylinder while maintaining better fuel economy and lower emissions.
Potential Alternatives to the V6 Camry
If it’s power and performance you’re after, there might still be options worth exploring if the 2025 Camry skips the V6.
Toyota’s 2.4L Turbocharged Inline-4 — The New Powerhouse
Toyota’s 2025 XSE trim features a 268-horsepower 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 engine, which marks a significant jump from the standard 2.5L engine. This engine includes a torque surge of 350 lb-ft and benefits from updated transmission and tuning for a more sporty driving experience.
Key Features:
- 268 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Improved launch responsiveness
- Sharpened suspension tuning (XSE model)
Toyota Camry Hybrid
For those prioritizing fuel economy over horsepower, the Camry Hybrid remains an extremely compelling option. The 2.5L hybrid engine system is paired with electric motors for a combined 208 hp and excellent EPA ratings (up to 44 MPG in the city). While not a performance car, it’s built for efficiency, comfort, and long-term ownership.
Fuel Efficiency:
- City: 44 MPG
- Highway: 41 MPG
- Combined: 43 MPG
While some drivers may find hybrid driving modes too relaxed for high-performance driving, it’s worth considering given the current V6 landscape.
Is There a Chance for a V6 Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid?
As automakers continue to explore different hybrid configurations, there is theoretical potential for a V6 hybrid or plug-in hybrid Toyota Camry in the future. However, given environmental goals and the current trajectory of Camry’s engine development, this scenario seems unlikely for 2025 specifically.
Toyota’s TNGA-K platform (used for Camry and others) supports multiple powertrain types, including hybrid technology. Yet, adding a hybrid version to a V6 engine would increase cost and complexity while offering questionable benefits over an existing turbo-four hybrid option.
Market Demand and Consumer Pressure
If there was a strong and sustained consumer demand for a V6 Camry, Toyota would likely consider reintroducing it — even if in limited trims. However, the market has diversified in the last few years. Buyers are increasingly leaning toward:
- SUVs and crossovers
- Hybrid and electric vehicles
- Electric Performance Cars
The midsize sedan market itself is shrinking. This shift has diminished the strategic advantage of offering a high-performance V6 Camry over more agile competitors like the Honda Accord or Mazda6, both of which have also retired their V6 options.
Camry’s Competitive Landscape for 2025
To better understand Toyota’s engine decisions for the 2025 Camry, we should compare it to its chief competitors:
| Vehicle | Highest Engine Option | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Toyota Camry | 2.4L Turbo Inline-4 | 268 hp | 350 lb-ft | 8-speed automatic |
| 2025 Honda Accord | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 | 190 hp | 225 lb-ft | CVT |
| 2025 Mazda6 | 2.5L Turbo Inline-4 | 256 hp | 320 lb-ft | 6-speed automatic |
As you can see, the highest spec Camry trim is now more powerful than either the Honda Accord or Mazda6, especially in torque. This may explain why Toyota believes it can meet most consumer demands with a turbocharged four-cylinder instead of a V6.
Why You Might Still Prefer a V6
Despite the improvements in four-cylinder turbo technology, V6 engines still offer several compelling advantages:
- Higher towing capacity — V6 engines typically offer more torque and pulling power
- Smaller turbo lag — Turbocharged engines can suffer from delayed throttle response
- Larger displacement means higher engine longevity — V6s often last longer if well maintained
To this end, V6 powertrains continue to attract a niche segment of drivers, particularly those who value refinement, towing ability, and a natural linear driving experience.
What the Future Holds for Toyota Camry Performance
If you’re a driver who has grown up with V6-powered Camrys, it’s important to consider the long-term strategy of Toyota. Despite the current absence of a V6 in the Camry, Toyota continues to innovate through:
- GR Sport Models—Part of Toyota Gazoo Racing tuning arm
- Hybrid Performance Concepts—Combining electric assistance with gasoline engines for quicker acceleration and power delivery
The GR models are Toyota’s way of offering sportier variants without relying on engine displacement — which may point to the future direction for performance-focused Camrys.
Conclusion: Is the V6 Era Over for the Toyota Camry?
As of now, there is no official confirmation that the 2025 Toyota Camry will receive a V6 engine option. Given current trends, environmental regulations, and Toyota’s strategic shift toward efficiency-focused powertrains, the V6 engine has been replaced — potentially permanently — by more modern turbocharged and hybrid alternatives.
However, if you’re craving more power than the base engines offer, the Camry XSE with the 2.4L turbocharged engine is the closest replacement Toyota currently provides, offering 268 hp and 350 lb-ft. While it’s not a V6, this latest engine represents a considerable step forward in four-cylinder performance tuning.
For now, the V6 Camry exists in fond memory — a dynamic yet high-consumption engine, giving way to a more electrified, technologically advanced future. If you’re in the market for the 2025 model, your best bet is to enjoy the enhanced power delivery of the latest turbo-four Camry — a compromise between performance and efficiency in today’s automotive world.
Will the 2025 Toyota Camry still offer a V6 engine option?
As of the latest available information, Toyota has not announced plans to reintroduce a V6 engine option for the 2025 Camry. Recent generations of the Camry have moved away from the V6 in favor of more fuel-efficient inline-four and hybrid powertrains. This strategic shift aligns with broader industry trends toward downsized, turbocharged engines and electrified powertrains that offer both performance and efficiency.
Toyota’s focus with the 2025 Camry appears to be on refining its existing 2.5L inline-four and hybrid variants. The company has emphasized hybrid technology as a core element of its future lineup, aiming to meet global emissions standards and consumer demand for better fuel economy. While the absence of a V6 may disappoint some enthusiasts, the current lineup delivers strong performance and fuel economy without the need for a larger engine.
Why did Toyota discontinue the V6 engine in the Camry?
Toyota discontinued the V6 engine in the Camry largely due to evolving consumer preferences, regulatory pressures, and advancements in engine technology. The automotive industry as a whole has moved toward fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, and Toyota embraced this shift by introducing more efficient inline-four and hybrid engines. These newer engines offer comparable, if not better, performance with significantly improved fuel economy and lower environmental impact.
Additionally, manufacturing and development costs for maintaining multiple engine lines—including the V6—posed a challenge. By streamlining its powertrain offerings, Toyota can better allocate resources toward developing advanced hybrid systems and turbocharged four-cylinder engines. This decision reflects a long-term vision that prioritizes sustainability and technological innovation over traditional engine configurations.
What engines are available in the 2025 Toyota Camry?
The 2025 Toyota Camry is expected to offer two primary engine choices: a 2.5L inline-four and a 2.5L hybrid powertrain. The non-hybrid version provides a balance of power and efficiency, with expected outputs of around 206 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers a responsive yet economical driving experience suitable for a wide range of drivers.
The hybrid variant combines the 2.5L inline-four with an electric motor, resulting in a net output of approximately 247 horsepower. It features Toyota’s Electric Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT), which enhances fuel efficiency and provides seamless acceleration. Both powertrains reflect Toyota’s commitment to reducing emissions while maintaining the Camry’s reputation as a reliable midsize sedan.
Are there any performance benefits to the new engines over the older V6?
While the V6 engine offered robust power in previous Camry models, the current generation’s engine technology provides several performance benefits. Toyota’s latest inline-four and hybrid engines leverage advanced engineering, including variable valve timing, hybrid synergy, and lightweight components, to deliver strong acceleration and smooth operation. The hybrid model, in particular, offers near-luxury performance levels while maintaining excellent fuel economy.
Moreover, the lighter weight of the four-cylinder engines improves handling and agility compared to the heavier V6 units. The hybrid system also provides instant torque from the electric motor, enhancing off-the-line performance and overtaking ability. These refinements make the current engines not only more efficient but also more refined and capable than their V6 predecessors in many real-world driving conditions.
Will there be a turbocharged engine option for the 2025 Toyota Camry?
As of now, Toyota has not confirmed a turbocharged engine option for the 2025 Camry. The current lineup continues to rely on naturally aspirated inline-four and hybrid engines known for their reliability and efficiency. While turbocharging is a popular technology among competitors for increasing power output without sacrificing fuel economy, Toyota has opted to focus on hybridization and engine refinement.
That said, Toyota has adopted turbocharged engines in other models like the Tundra and GR Corolla, indicating it is capable of integrating such technology. However, for the Camry, the company seems to believe the current engines meet or exceed driver expectations without the need for turbocharging. Future generations of the Camry could explore forced induction, especially if demand for more power persists.
How does the 2025 Camry’s hybrid engine compare to the older V6 in terms of driving experience?
The hybrid engine in the 2025 Toyota Camry offers a driving experience that differs significantly from the older V6 models but in a largely positive way. While the V6 was known for higher horsepower and a more traditional engine note, the hybrid system provides smoother, more linear acceleration and virtually silent operation in electric mode. The eCVT transmission, once criticized, has been refined to feel more natural and responsive over time.
Additionally, the hybrid system enhances everyday usability with its low-end torque delivery, which makes it especially efficient for urban driving and stop-and-go traffic. Although the V6 provided a sportier feel, the hybrid Camry excels in fuel efficiency, comfort, and quietness—features that appeal to a broader audience. Toyota has effectively replaced the V6 with a powertrain that addresses modern needs without sacrificing performance.
Is there any possibility that Toyota might bring back a V6 for the Camry in the future?
While Toyota has made no official announcements about reintroducing a V6 engine for the Camry, the likelihood appears very low given the current automotive climate and Toyota’s long-term strategy. The company is heavily invested in hybrid, electric, and hydrogen technologies, and has demonstrated a commitment to phasing out larger, less efficient combustion engines. Introducing a V6 in the future would contradict its stated goals of achieving carbon neutrality and expanding electrified powertrain options.
Market trends further support this direction, as consumer interest in SUVs and electrified vehicles continues to rise while sedan sales decline. Those seeking traditional V6 performance are more likely to move toward sporty SUVs or higher-performance models within Toyota’s lineup, such as the GR-series vehicles. Therefore, it’s more probable that Toyota will refine its hybrid offerings rather than reintroduce a V6 for the Camry.