The SE, at $26,605 for a four-cylinder five-speed model, $27,950 for a four-cylinder automatic and $32,010 for a V6, adds sporty

The SE gets a unique grille treatment, and other matte-black details. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

aerodynamic upgrades to the exterior plus matte-black exterior trim details including a unique honeycomb-style grille insert, smoked-tint halogen headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels - very nice. The perforated leather seats, amber-coloured Optitron gauges and aforementioned leather/metal shift knob are nice additions too, wrapping up a package that transforms the Camry's look entirely. More importantly to some, will be the firmer springs, antiroll bars, shocks and bushings, plus a 10 mm (0.4-inch) drop in ride height than other Camrys, for a sportier feel.

The top-line XLE, at $37,425, is hardly bargain basement entry-level stuff, but

The Camry's detailing is gorgeous, and overall functionality superb. (Photo: Toyota Canada)

when you get inside you'll understand, as I did, why it deserves such a significant price premium. Its Smart entry system, requiring no need to pull out the key or even touch the remote to enter, or for that matter to start up the ignition, a process that needs only a quick press of the dash-mounted button to execute, makes the upgrade worthwhile, but only because the eight-way power driver's seat is so comfortable, reclining rear seats so nice for passengers, dual climate control so accommodating, and wood grain trim so rich. A $4,935 B Package adds leather and other niceties, but the price climbs into Lexus territory; although not Lexus territory with equivalent features.

At the end of my daylong test, I'm resolved that this new Camry is by far the

I'm resolved that this new Camry is by far the best vehicle available in the midsize class. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

best vehicle available in the midsize class. Normally I'm hesitant to make such a claim, being that there are many competitors that perform similarly, at least on paper, and offer a features list that looks much the same, but the Camry is superior when comparing most criteria, especially interior design and execution, and for once even bests the majority when it comes to styling. Hyundai's Sonata, Kia's new Magentis, and to some extent Ford's Fusion, remain the value leaders, at least before resale/residual values are brought into question, with the Chrysler/Dodge 300C/Charger R/T duo by far the performance leaders; Mazda's 6 and Mitsubishi's Galant also impressive as far as handling goes. But you can't go wrong if a Camry ends up in your garage. You'll never have a problem reselling it, and if properly maintained will get top-dollar for a well-equipped version.

Yes, it's one of those no-brainer decisions, although now the right half of the brain won't be arguing with the left half, as style and performance is now part of the reliable, responsible Camry equation.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $25,800 - $42,360
• Body Type: 4-door midsize sedan
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 158-hp, 161 lb-ft of torque, 2.4L, 16-valve, DOHC inline-4 with VVT-i
• Optional Engine: 268-hp, 248 lb-ft of torque, 3.5L, 24-valve, V6 with dual VVT-i
• Transmission: 5-speed auto (optional 5-spd manual (SE); 6-speed auto w/ V6)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS and EBD
• Curb Weight (estimated): 1,490 - 1,585 kg (3,285 - 3,495 lbs)
• Dimensions (L/W/H/Wheelbase): 4,805 / 1,821 / 1,460 / 2,776 mm (189.2 / 71.7 / 57.5 / 109.3 in)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (estimated): 425 L (15.0 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 9.8 / 6.9 L/100 km (2.4L I-4); 10.7 / 7.7 L/100 km (3.5L V6)
• Warranty (mo/km): 36 / 60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Competitors: Chevrolet Malibu / Impala, Chrysler Sebring / 300, Dodge Charger, Ford Fusion / Five Hundred, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata / Azera, Kia Magentis / Amanti, Mitsubishi Galant, Nissan Altima / Maxima, Subaru Legacy, Suzuki Verona, Volkswagen Jetta / Passat, Volvo S60
• Web site: www.toyota.ca