The redesigned 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid is set to make its debut on November 14 at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, according to Toyota, hinting at the addition of all-wheel drive to the hybrid version of the ubiquitous midsize sedan for the first time.
While Toyota’s hybrids with all-wheel drive are not unprecedented, the Camry Hybrid has, until now, only been available with front-wheel drive. Toyota reintroduced all-wheel drive as an option for the 2020 model year, but it was limited to non-hybrid models with the basic inline-four-cylinder engine.
Details will have to wait until the unveiling of the redesigned Camry Hybrid, but it is expected that the sedan will utilize an all-wheel-drive system similar to other Toyota hybrids, featuring a dedicated electric motor that powers the rear wheels without mechanical connection to the rest of the transmission. The all-wheel-drive option was limited to SUVs until recently.
Toyota began incorporating all-wheel drive in hybrid cars with the latest-generation 2019 Toyota Prius, suggesting a strategy that reduces the use of the rear motor but still achieves around 50 mpg with regeneration.
The smaller Corolla Hybrid received an all-wheel-drive option for 2023. In a test drive review, it was found to have mileage very close to front-wheel-drive Corollas while adding some traction for snowy roads.
Last redesigned for the 2018 model year, the outgoing Camry is the oldest midsize sedan available with a hybrid powertrain. Currently, all-wheel drive is not offered in the Honda Accord Hybrid or the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, although Hyundai has suggested that the refreshed 2024 Sonata Hybrid achieves more from its regenerative braking.
