How Many Liters Is a V6 Camry: Everything You Need to Know About Toyota Camry Engine Sizes

The Toyota Camry has long been a staple in the midsize sedan market, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and balanced blend of performance and comfort. Over the years, this popular vehicle has been offered with a variety of engine configurations, including inline-four and V6 engines. If you’re asking, “How many liters is a V6 Camry?” you’re likely interested in the specific engine options, performance metrics, and how the V6 compares to other Camry variants.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all aspects of the V6 Camry engines, their specifications, performance impact, and much more. Whether you’re doing research before a purchase or just curious about your vehicle, this article is packed with detailed, SEO-optimized insights to guide your understanding.

Table of Contents

What Does Engine Displacement Mean? Understanding Engine Size in Liters

Before diving into the specifics of the V6 Camry engine, it’s important to understand what engine displacement—or engine size—means. Measured in liters (L), engine displacement refers to the total volume of all the cylinders in a combustion engine. It’s a rough indicator of the engine’s power potential, although many other factors also influence performance.

For example, a 3.5L engine means that the combined volume of air the engine can take in is 3.5 liters per engine cycle. It’s a common measure used to express engine size in vehicles. With that foundation, let’s explore what engine sizes have been available in the V6 Camry models.

The Evolution of the Toyota Camry’s V6 Engine

Since its introduction, the Toyota Camry has seen a variety of powertrain options. While the four-cylinder engine has been the most common and fuel-efficient choice, the V6 Camry has catered to drivers seeking more power and a sportier driving experience.

Toyota did not include a V6 engine in every generation of the Camry. In fact, the V6 was an optional upgrade available primarily from the late 1980s through the early 2000s. Let’s look at the specific V6 engine displacements offered in the Toyota Camry over the years.

V6 Engine Sizes By Generation

Camry Generation	V6 Engine Displacement	Available Years	Notes
Second Generation (1987–1991)	2.0L, 2.5L, and 2.9L V6 options	1987–1991	Prior-generation engines carried over into early Camry versions.
Third Generation (1992–1996)	3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)	1992–1996	Popular engine offering strong torque for a sedan of that era.
Fourth Generation (1997–2001)	3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)	1997–2001	Refinements to engine tuning for better efficiency and smoother performance.
Fifth Generation (2002–2006)	3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)	2002–2006	This generation had a more modern chassis and aerodynamics, complementing the V6 engine’s performance.
Sixth Generation (2007–2011)	3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)	2007–2011	Toyota updated the V6 engine to a larger displacement for improved power and response.
Seventh Generation (2012–2017)	3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)	2012–2017	V6 now available on the SE and XLE models; improved features and performance.
Eighth Generation (2018–Present)	N/A (No V6 Option)	2018–2024

As shown in the above table, the Toyota Camry offered V6 engines in different displacement sizes over the years, primarily 3.0L and then upgrading to 3.5L. However, as fuel efficiency and hybrid options became more important to consumers, Toyota phased out the V6 option starting with the eighth-generation Camry in 2018.

The Most Powerful V6 Camry: What Is the 3.5L Engine?

The 3.5L V6 engine, particularly the 2GR-FE unit, became Toyota’s premier midsize sedan engine. Introduced in the 2007 Camry model year, this V6 offered significant improvements over its predecessor. It delivered a boost in horsepower, better fuel efficiency for its class, and a refined driving experience appreciated by many drivers.

The 2GR-FE engine displaced 3.456 liters (3.5L rounded), featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and had variable valve timing (VVT-i). This made the engine responsive and efficient, ideal for both city and highway driving.

Performance Specs of the 3.5L V6 Camry

Here’s a look at the specifications and power figures of the 3.5L engine found in the seventh- and early eighth-generation Camry models:

Engine	Horsepower	Torque	Engine Size
2GR-FE (3.5L V6)	268 hp (2010–2011) / 269 hp (2012–2017)	248 lb-ft	3.5 liters

This level of performance made the Camry a compelling choice among sedans like the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima during that period.

Why Would You Choose a V6 Camry?

While Toyota has discontinued the V6 engine option for the Camry since 2018, the allure of a powerful and smooth engine still draws many buyers to the used vehicle market. Here are some of the advantages of choosing a V6 Camry over its four-cylinder counterpart:

1. Stronger Acceleration and Better Passing Power

As sedans have evolved toward fuel efficiency, many drivers still prefer a bit more punch when it comes to acceleration. A V6 engine provides quicker response and better power delivery at high speeds, which is ideal for passing on the highway or merging with traffic.

2. Refinement and Quietness

V6 engines are generally smoother and quieter than four-cylinder units. The additional cylinders result in less engine vibration and a refined overall drive, making long trips more comfortable and enjoyable.

3. Stronger Towing Capability

While sedans aren’t often associated with towing, some Camry owners may have small trailers or boats. In these cases, the V6 engine’s superior torque makes a noticeable difference in towing performance.

The Downside of a V6 Camry: Why Toyota Dropped the Option

It’s not that V6 engines are inherently flawed; rather, market trends and consumer preferences began shifting toward more economical, greener alternatives. That led Toyota to discontinue the V6 Camry in favor of more fuel-efficient and hybrid-compatible four-cylinder setups.

1. Increased Fuel Consumption

Fuel economy is a major concern for most buyers today. The V6 Camry typically returned about 21–24 mpg in combined driving, compared to the 25–33 mpg for the modern four-cylinder models. Over time, this difference adds up at the fuel pump.

2. Emission Standards and Regulations

Stricter environmental regulations around the globe have pushed automakers to abandon larger displacement engines unless they are designed with turbocharging or hybridization. V6 engines like the naturally aspirated 3.5L unit were becoming harder to justify under new standards.

3. Rise of Hybrid Technology

Toyota itself pioneered hybrid technology with the Prius, and the Camry Hybrid version has been a strong alternative to the V6 offering. Offering fuel efficiency close to a four-cylinder with the smoothness and torque of a larger engine, the hybrid quickly replaced the V6 in popularity.

V6 vs. 4-Cylinder: Which Camry Engine is Right for You?

The engine choice for the Toyota Camry today is primarily between 4-cylinder and hybrid-powered variants. Below is a comparison of key aspects to help you decide which one matches your driving needs.

Performance Comparison

Verdict: The V6 Camry still holds the performance edge, but modern hybrid systems have closed the gap in a way that the fuel savings can’t ignore.

Fuel Efficiency Comparison

| Feature | V6 Camry (3.5L) | 4-Cylinder Camry (2.5L) | Camry Hybrid |
|——–|——————|——————————-|—————|
| City | ~19 mpg | ~28 mpg | ~51 mpg |
| Highway | ~29 mpg | ~39 mpg | ~53 mpg |
| Combined | ~24 mpg | ~32 mpg | ~52 mpg |

Verdict: The 4-cylinder and hybrid versions significantly outperform the V6 in fuel economy, which is crucial for daily commuting and eco-conscious drivers.

Cost of Ownership

Let’s look at approximate five-year cost of ownership estimates:

V6 Camry: ~$14,000–$16,000
4-Cylinder Camry: ~$12,000–$13,000
Camry Hybrid: ~$12,500–$14,000

The V6 Camry’s cost of ownership is higher, mainly due to the increased fuel consumption and maintenance of a larger engine. However, depreciation tends to be slower for the V6 due to its higher perceived value when bought used.

Should You Buy a Used V6 Camry Today?

If you’re considering a used Camry, the presence or absence of a V6 engine should hinge on your priorities:

Pros of Buying a Used V6 Camry

More enjoyable to drive — particularly when loaded or on longer trips.
High-mileage durability — Toyota engines are known for longevity.
Still competitive resale value in the used market.

Cons of Buying a Used V6 Camry

Limited availability – no new models are available past 2017.
Lower fuel economy compared to modern options.
Higher maintenance costs compared to 4-cylinder variants.

If you’re a driver who prefers spirited acceleration over maximum fuel savings, the used V6 Camry can still be an excellent option. However, if you’re focused on budgeting for fuel or considering long-term ownership in an emissions-conscious environment, the four-cylinder or hybrid Camry will better suit your needs.

Where Is the V6 Engine Now? Toyota’s Current Lineup and Strategy

Toyota’s shift away from natural aspiration towards hybrid and turbocharged engines marks a broader industry trend aiming for better efficiency and lower emissions. The current Toyota Camry comes equipped with the following engines across trim levels (as of the 2024 model year):

2.5L inline-four (gasoline): Balanced for efficiency and decent performance
2.0L inline-four (entry-level): Best for fuel economy-focused buyers
2.5L Hybrid (Camry Hybrid): Combines fuel efficiency with hybrid-assisted power delivery

Toyota has also introduced their 2.4L turbocharged engine option in other models (like the Toyota Grand Highlander), but it has not trickled down to the Camry lineup. The company appears focused on pushing the electrified path forward.

The V6, as a naturally aspirated engine, struggles to keep pace with these new alternatives—not because it’s a bad engine, but simply due to evolving industry and global expectations.

Conclusion: So How Many Liters Is a V6 Camry?

In summary:

The most common and powerful V6 Camry engine had a displacement of 3.5 liters, featured in models from 2007 through 2017.
Previous generations featured a 3.0L V6, which was well-regarded for its strength and reliability.
Toyota no longer offers the V6 in new Camrys.
For modern buyers, the choice is between fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines and high-tech hybrid options.

Whether you opt for a used V6 Camry or new four-cylinder or hybrid, the Camry remains a versatile and trusted sedan. The V6 was special in its time—bold, smooth, and fun to drive—and holds a special place in enthusiasts’ hearts.

If you’re in the market for a midsize sedan and value power, responsiveness, and classic internal combustion character, exploring the used V6 Camry market could yield a great deal and a more engaging driving experience.

What is the engine size of a V6 Toyota Camry?

The V6 Toyota Camry is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine size has been standard for the Camry’s V6 models in previous generations, offering a significant boost in power compared to the four-cylinder versions. The 3.5L V6 is part of Toyota’s lineup of engines designed to balance performance and efficiency, making it a popular option for drivers seeking more power without stepping up to a larger vehicle.

In recent model years, Toyota has shifted focus toward more fuel-efficient configurations, and the V6 engine option has been discontinued in the latest Camry trims. Previously, the 3.5-liter engine delivered strong acceleration and a more dynamic driving experience, especially in higher trims like the Camry SE or XSE. Although it’s no longer in production, the V6 variant remains a key point of interest for shoppers looking at used Camry models.

Why did Toyota stop offering a V6 engine in the Camry?

Toyota discontinued the V6 engine option in the Toyota Camry due to changing consumer preferences and evolving automotive industry trends. As fuel efficiency and hybrid technology gained prominence, many consumers began opting for smaller, more efficient engines or hybrid powertrains. Toyota, like many automakers, responded by shifting focus toward improving hybrid and turbocharged engine performance rather than maintaining larger, higher-output engines like the V6.

Market research and sales data also showed that the majority of Camry buyers preferred the four-cylinder or hybrid variants, which offered better fuel economy and lower emissions. By focusing on these engines, Toyota could streamline production, reduce costs, and meet environmental regulations more effectively. The decision to remove the V6 reflects a broader industry movement toward downsizing engines and integrating hybrid technology to meet modern driving demands.

What is the difference between a four-cylinder and V6 Camry engine?

The primary difference between a four-cylinder and V6 Toyota Camry engine lies in performance, efficiency, and smoothness. The four-cylinder engine, typically a 2.5-liter unit, provides adequate power for everyday driving while offering better fuel economy and lower emissions. On the other hand, the V6 engine, previously a 3.5-liter unit, delivered stronger acceleration and a more refined driving experience, making it more suitable for drivers who desired a sportier feel or needed more towing capacity.

In terms of design, the V6 engine has two cylinder banks arranged in a “V” shape, allowing for a more balanced and smoother operation compared to the inline-four cylinder. However, this arrangement also adds weight and consumes more fuel. The four-cylinder engine is more compact and efficient, fitting in line with the current market shift toward economical driving solutions. While the V6 offered superior power, the four-cylinder remains the mainstream choice for most Camry buyers today.

How much horsepower does the V6 Camry engine produce?

In its final iteration, the V6 engine in the Toyota Camry produced 301 horsepower. This figure represented a significant performance advantage over the standard four-cylinder engine, which generated around 203 horsepower. The high power output of the V6 made it well-suited for drivers who wanted more responsive acceleration and a sportier driving dynamic, especially in models like the Camry SE and XSE trims that emphasized sport-oriented handling and design.

This level of horsepower ensured that the Camry could deliver exhilarating off-the-line performance and better capability for merging and passing on highways. The engine also featured Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and Toyota’s VVT-i technology (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), which enhanced efficiency and responsiveness. While the V6 Camry no longer comes new from the dealer, its power numbers still make it an appealing option for those in the market for a used performance sedan.

Are V6 Camrys reliable compared to four-cylinder models?

Yes, the V6 Camry engines are generally considered reliable and durable, much like their four-cylinder counterparts. Toyota is known for building dependable powertrains, and the 3.5-liter V6 was no exception, with many owners reporting few serious issues over time. However, because the V6 has more moving parts and a more complex configuration, it may require more frequent maintenance and could be more expensive to repair if major engine work becomes necessary.

In comparison, four-cylinder engines tend to be more mechanically simple, which often translates to lower repair costs and slightly better longevity under normal driving conditions. Both engine types benefit from Toyota’s solid reputation for reliability, but overall vehicle longevity depends heavily on regular maintenance, driving habits, and service conditions. Whether V6 or four-cylinder, well-maintained Camrys often last well beyond 200,000 miles.

Is the V6 Camry fuel-efficient?

The V6 Camry is less fuel-efficient than the four-cylinder or hybrid versions of the vehicle. With the 3.5-liter V6 engine, fuel economy typically hovered around 22 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway based on previous model years. This was competitive among sporty midsize sedans but far from the 40+ mpg achieved by the Camry Hybrid model, which focused on maximizing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

While the V6 offered strong performance, it could not match the efficiency benchmarks that Toyota has been striving for in recent years. Features like direct fuel injection and variable valve timing helped improve its efficiency to some extent, but the inherent design of a larger engine meant more fuel consumption. Today, buyers have more economical choices, which has contributed to Toyota’s decision to phase out the V6 version in favor of hybrid and turbocharged four-cylinder engines.

What Camry models came with a V6 engine?

The V6 engine was offered in select Camry models prior to its discontinuation. Historically, the 3.5-liter V6 was available in higher trim levels like the Camry SE and Camry XSE, which were designed to deliver a more sporty and upscale driving experience. These trims often featured sport-tuned suspensions, aggressive styling, and enhanced interior features to complement the increased power output from the V6 engine.

While not every Camry trim included a V6 option, those that did were marketed toward drivers seeking more performance and a refined feel behind the wheel. The engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, improving both responsiveness and fuel efficiency compared to older V6-powered models. Although the V6 is no longer offered in new Camry vehicles, it was a significant part of the Camry lineup for many years, attracting performance-oriented buyers.