1997 Toyota Camry csi 2.2 petrol

Summary:

Needs improvement

Faults:

The lock up converter has failed in the transmission.

General Comments:

The car is very heavy on fuel, it's probably because of the small engine and heavy weight of the chassis.

The transmission is weak link in the design in my experience.

The car is very roomy and comfortable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 29th December, 2002

1997 Toyota Camry 220GL 2.2

Summary:

Just another anonymous family car

Faults:

The exhaust system needed to be replaced after purchase.

Interior upholstery is thin and tears easily.

General Comments:

I bought this car at a low price due to the higher mileage. The car is more reliable than other cars I have owned with similar mileages. However the entire exhaust system needed to be replaced at high cost due to the warranty expiring in early 2000. Toyota parts are surprisingly expensive.

The interior fabrics are very thin and the fabric on the driver's seat needed to be replaced when it tore due to normal wear and tear.

The 2.2 litre engine gives adequate performance when fitted with the 5 speed manual transmission. The car has good handling albeit with plenty of body roll.

The interior is nothing but gray!

Surprisingly the 220GL and 220GX had optional airbags only at a time when other makers were selling cars with them standard.

As a car the Camry is OK, but it lacks the personality and pizazz of a European car.

I don't usually buy Japanese cars but the Camry has proved itself a reliable investment. It would be ideal for the unadventurous family.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 24th December, 2000

14th Nov 2007, 00:38

The SXV20 Camry 220GL did have a standard drivers airbag (in NZ), with the passengers as an option; The higher spec 220GX did have dual standard I believe, which was pretty much standard fare 10 years ago, and as such it was a 4 star Aus NCAP car in its day (with the dual airbags that is)

22nd Nov 2007, 15:18

..unless your car is one of the last of the SXV10 series, then you would be correct about the airbags. The crossover to the SXV20 was around mid-late 1997.

1997 Toyota Camry CSi 2.2

Summary:

Economical and dependable

Faults:

LS mirror vibrated - fixed under warranty.

General Comments:

Not as well assembled as Japanese Toyota's I have owned in the past, but still very good.

Seats need redesigning - very 'Japanese' -uncomfortable for Europeans on long runs.

The 2.2 L has ample power - I would not bother with the V6 unless buying for towing.

Some last minute addons/accessories are of poor quality - ie. load area cover and driver's foot rest.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th November, 2000