2026 Toyota Camry Review: 7 Things Scotty Kilmer Hates

Hybrid System Concerns

• ⚠️ The hood rod on the hybrid system is noted for rattling, indicating a potential design flaw.
• ⚡ A significant recall affects the hybrid inverter assembly in 2025-2026 models due to a bolt not being torqued correctly, posing risks of arcing, electrical damage, and even fire.
• 🇯🇵 The speaker expresses a preference for Japanese manufacturing over the Kentucky plant for hybrid Camrys, citing a perceived difference in quality.

Engine Oil Specification

• 💧 The new 0W8 engine oil specification is questioned, with the speaker suspecting it's primarily for improved gas mileage ratings rather than engine longevity.
• ⚙️ The speaker plans to use 0W16 oil during the first oil change, believing 0W8 is too light and could lead to faster engine wear.
• ⛽ While acknowledging 0W16 is also light, it's considered a better compromise than 0W8, especially for protection against detonation.

Interior Features and Controls

• 💺 The rear seat reminder system is criticized as intrusive and annoying, with the speaker preferring not to be warned about leaving items in the back seat.
• 🅿️ Electric parking brakes are disliked due to potential corrosion issues and the added complexity for DIY brake jobs, requiring special tools.
• 📸 The lack of a dash cam as a standard feature is a disappointment, requiring an aftermarket installation.

Adaptive Cruise Control Interface

• 🖱️ The adaptive cruise control activation is deemed overly complicated compared to older stem-mounted controls, requiring multiple button presses.
• 📍 The current button placement on the steering wheel is considered less intuitive, forcing drivers to look down rather than keeping their eyes on the road.

Cabin Design and Ergonomics

• 🦵 A protruding element in the cabin is identified as uncomfortable for taller passengers, with its purpose and design logic being questioned.
• 💨 The EV mode is deemed largely impractical due to a small battery, suitable only for very short, low-speed bursts.

Seat Material Concerns

• 🛋️ While the seats are comfortable, the use of fake leather raises concerns about its long-term durability compared to traditional fabric seats.

Overall Assessment

• 👍 Despite the criticisms, the speaker acknowledges the fun driving experience and the car's overall appeal.
• 💯 The review emphasizes an honest assessment, highlighting areas where design choices could be improved.