1998 Toyota Camry CSI review from Australia and New Zealand

Nothing.

This is one of the milestone Camry models Toyota has produced. Excellent ride and build quality, handling and reliability. Though if you're looking for a stylish or sporty car, this probably isn't where to look.

Earlier this year, my previous car was a 2000 Holden Astra. It had all the features you'd want with European styling, yet being previously associated with the Toyota badge, it was all to no avail. It was perhaps my grandparents who influenced my Toyota passion. They had owned numerous Toyota's throughout their lives, and had proven that a Toyota will last the distance, and even beyond.

Their most recent car was the 1999 Toyota Camry Conquest. Its features included front power windows, cruise control, front SRS air bags, ABS breaks and a nice 3.0L V6 engine. As well as the standard fitments such as remote central locking and power door mirrors.

It was in this very car that I learnt how to drive, and that's when I truly started to appreciate what a good car it was. Although it spoilt me. I'd get into other cars expecting them to drive the same only to be disappointed. And that is perhaps why I chose to trade-in for a Camry.

The Camry I got is a 1998 2.2L 4 cylinder CSI, the same body shape, and overall the same car except less features. On the test drive I could have sworn I was driving a V6, but to my surprise, it was a humble 4 cylinder. The 'styling' was typical of all Camry's, but I wasn't really looking for a car that demanded attention, I was more interested in something that drove well. And that's basically what the Camry is, a practical, good quality and very reliable car.

So basically, I'm happy! Anyone who says this car is rubbish or not very good, has either not driven one or has had a particularly bad day! :-)