Toyota Camry VII (XV20) gallery (1996–2001)

The second wide-body Toyota Camry (XV20) introduced in 1996 became the top-selling passenger car in the United States. The model achieved widespread global popularity due to its reliability and practicality.

All photos 240 Celica Camry (A40) 0 1980–1982 I (V10) 0 1982–1986 II (V20) 0 1986–1992 III (V30) 0 1990–1994 VI (XV10) 0 1991–1996 IV (V40) 0 1994–1998 VII (XV20) 0 1996–2001 V (V50) 0 1998–2003 VIII (XV30) 9 2001–2006 IX (XV40) 41 2006–2011 X (XV50) 105 2011–2017 XI (XV70) 72 2017–2024 XII (XV80) 0 2024

Debuting in August 1996, the XV20 series introduced sharper, more angular exterior lines while improving chassis rigidity and reducing overall vehicle mass. Available as a four-door sedan and a station wagon (sold as Camry Gracia in Japan), the platform also spawned the stylish Camry Solara coupe and convertible. The XV20 earned historic significance by becoming America's best-selling passenger car for the first time in 1997. Engineers paid meticulous attention to structural body rigidity, minimizing noise, vibration, and harshness levels while enhancing cabin material quality. The refined chassis architecture delivered excellent ride comfort and predictable handling characteristics across both urban streets and high-speed highways.

Powertrains carried over refined versions of the 2.2-liter 5S-FE four-cylinder (133 hp) and the 3.0-liter 1MZ-FE V6 (194 hp). Full-time all-wheel drive was offered on Japanese models. A mid-cycle refresh in 1999 introduced larger headlights, a redesigned grille, and refreshed tail lamps. Celebrated for unmatched mechanical durability, XV20 production ran until 2001. High levels of active and passive safety were corroborated by outstanding crash test results and comprehensive driver assistance technologies. Thanks to exceptional mechanical endurance and robust powertrain engineering, this generation earned global acclaim across all major automotive markets.