2012 Toyota Camry: The Complete Buyer’s Guide - Dimensions, Specs, Colors, and More
The 2012 Toyota Camry holds a special place in automotive history. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride, it remains a popular choice in the used car market. This comprehensive buyer’s guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make an informed decision about purchasing a 2012 Camry, covering its dimensions, specifications, available colors, and other essential details. Whether you’re looking for a practical daily driver or a dependable long-distance cruiser, this guide will help you navigate the world of the 2012 Camry.
Exterior Dimensions and Design
Understanding the exterior dimensions of the 2012 Toyota Camry is crucial for knowing how it fits in your garage, parking spaces, and overall driving experience. Here’s a breakdown:
- Overall Length: 189.8 inches (4,821 mm)
- Overall Width: 71.7 inches (1,821 mm)
- Overall Height: 57.9 inches (1,471 mm)
- Wheelbase: 109.3 inches (2,776 mm)
- Track (Front/Rear): 62.0 / 61.6 inches (1,575 / 1,565 mm)
The 2012 Camry featured a redesigned exterior compared to previous generations. Its styling was more modern and aerodynamic, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. The design emphasized a more sculpted appearance, with a prominent grille, integrated headlights, and a flowing body line.
Interior Dimensions and Comfort
The 2012 Camry is renowned for its spacious and comfortable interior. Here’s a look at the key interior dimensions:
- Headroom (Front/Rear): 38.8 / 38.1 inches (986 / 968 mm)
- Legroom (Front/Rear): 41.6 / 38.9 inches (1,057 / 988 mm)
- Shoulder Room (Front/Rear): 58.1 / 57.2 inches (1,476 / 1,453 mm)
- Hip Room (Front/Rear): 55.4 / 54.5 inches (1,407 / 1,384 mm)
- Cargo Volume: 15.4 cubic feet (436 liters)
The interior design focused on providing ample space for both passengers and cargo. The seats were designed for comfort, especially on longer journeys. The Camry offered a user-friendly layout with easy-to-reach controls and good visibility.
Engine and Performance Specifications
The 2012 Toyota Camry offered a choice of two engines, providing buyers with options for fuel efficiency and performance:
- 2.5-liter Inline-4 Engine:
- Horsepower: 178 hp
- Torque: 170 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined): 25/35/28 mpg (estimated)
- 3.5-liter V6 Engine (Available on higher trims):
- Horsepower: 268 hp
- Torque: 248 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined): 21/30/24 mpg (estimated)
The 2012 Camry’s performance was generally praised for its smooth acceleration and comfortable ride. The 4-cylinder engine provided excellent fuel economy, making it a popular choice for commuters, while the V6 offered significantly more power for those seeking a more spirited driving experience.
Available Trim Levels
The 2012 Toyota Camry was offered in several trim levels, each with its own set of features and options:
- L: (Entry-level) Basic features, good value.
- LE: Added features like a better sound system and more options.
- SE: Sport-tuned suspension, sportier styling, paddle shifters.
- XLE: Premium features like leather upholstery, upgraded audio, and more.
Choosing the right trim level depends on your individual needs and budget. Consider what features are most important to you, and compare the different trim levels to find the best fit.
Exterior and Interior Color Options
The 2012 Camry offered a range of exterior and interior color options to suit different tastes. While the exact availability might vary depending on the trim level, here are some of the commonly found colors:
Exterior Colors:
- Blizzard Pearl
- Super White
- Classic Silver Metallic
- Magnetic Gray Metallic
- Black
- Barcelona Red Metallic
- Attitude Black Metallic
- Blue Ribbon Metallic
- Desert Sand Mica
Interior Colors:
- Ivory
- Light Gray
- Black
The color options contribute significantly to the overall aesthetic appeal of the vehicle. Consider the color’s impact on resale value and how well it complements your personal style.
Safety Features
Toyota is known for prioritizing safety, and the 2012 Camry was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features:
- Standard Safety Features:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Traction Control (TRAC)
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist
- Multiple Airbags (front, side, and curtain)
- Optional Safety Features (depending on trim):
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
The 2012 Camry earned excellent safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), making it a safe and reliable choice.
Reliability and Maintenance
The 2012 Toyota Camry is renowned for its reliability and low maintenance costs. Regular maintenance, following the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, is key to keeping your Camry running smoothly for years to come. Common maintenance tasks include:
- Oil changes
- Tire rotations
- Brake inspections
- Fluid checks and replacements
Consult your owner’s manual for the specific maintenance schedule recommended for your vehicle.
What to Look for When Buying a Used 2012 Camry
When considering a used 2012 Camry, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection:
- Vehicle History Report: Obtain a report from services like Carfax or AutoCheck to check for accidents, title issues, and maintenance records.
- Mechanical Inspection: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and other critical components.
- Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to assess its handling, performance, and overall condition.
- Check for Common Issues: Research and be aware of any common issues or recalls associated with the 2012 Camry.
Conclusion: Is the 2012 Toyota Camry Right for You?
The 2012 Toyota Camry remains a solid choice in the used car market. Its combination of reliability, fuel efficiency, spaciousness, and a comfortable ride makes it an excellent option for various drivers. By carefully considering the information provided in this guide, including the dimensions, specifications, color options, and inspection tips, you can make an informed decision and determine if the 2012 Camry is the right vehicle for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the average price of a used 2012 Toyota Camry?
The price of a used 2012 Camry varies depending on its condition, mileage, trim level, and location. However, you can generally expect to find them in the $8,000 to $15,000 range.
2. What is the fuel economy of the 2012 Toyota Camry?
The 2012 Camry with the 2.5-liter inline-4 engine gets an estimated 25 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined. The 3.5-liter V6 engine gets an estimated 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined.
3. What are the common problems with the 2012 Toyota Camry?
The 2012 Camry is generally very reliable. Some owners have reported minor issues such as excessive oil consumption (especially on higher mileage vehicles) and problems with the infotainment system. However, these are generally not widespread issues.
4. What is the cargo capacity of the 2012 Toyota Camry?
The 2012 Toyota Camry has a cargo capacity of 15.4 cubic feet (436 liters).
5. Which trim level is the best value for a used 2012 Camry?
The LE trim level often offers the best balance of features and value. However, the ideal trim depends on your individual needs and budget. Consider what features are most important to you before making a decision.
