Let's dive into the specifics of the 2017 Toyota Camry XSE, focusing on what makes it tick under the hood – specifically, its horsepower and overall performance. For those of you considering this model, or simply curious about its capabilities, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview. The 2017 Camry XSE isn't just another mid-size sedan; it’s designed with a sporty edge, and a big part of that comes down to its engine and how it translates into real-world performance.

Engine Options and Horsepower

The 2017 Toyota Camry XSE offers a couple of engine choices, each delivering a different level of power and driving experience. Understanding these options is crucial in determining if this car meets your needs.

2.5-Liter 4-Cylinder Engine

The standard engine for the 2017 Camry XSE is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder. This engine is designed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for daily driving. It’s a reliable workhorse that’s been refined over the years to offer a smooth and responsive experience. But what exactly does it offer in terms of horsepower? The 2.5-liter engine delivers around 178 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. This level of power is more than sufficient for everyday commuting, running errands, and even the occasional road trip. The engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, which helps to optimize both performance and fuel economy. This combination ensures that the Camry XSE feels peppy enough in city traffic and stable on the highway.

For many drivers, the 4-cylinder engine strikes a sweet spot. It provides enough power to make driving enjoyable without sacrificing fuel economy. It’s also worth noting that the 2.5-liter engine is known for its reliability, which can translate to lower maintenance costs over the lifespan of the vehicle. If you're primarily concerned with practicality and efficiency, this engine is an excellent choice. However, if you crave more exhilarating performance, the V6 engine might be more your style.

3.5-Liter V6 Engine

For those seeking a more thrilling driving experience, the 2017 Camry XSE also offers a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine transforms the Camry from a practical sedan into a genuinely sporty machine. The V6 engine significantly boosts horsepower and torque, providing quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. So, what kind of power are we talking about? The 3.5-liter V6 engine churns out an impressive 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. That's a substantial increase over the 4-cylinder, and it makes a noticeable difference in how the car performs. With the V6, the Camry XSE can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, which is quite respectable for a mid-size sedan.

The V6 engine isn't just about raw power; it also delivers a smoother and more refined driving experience. The extra horsepower makes overtaking on the highway effortless, and the engine responds eagerly to throttle inputs. While the V6 does sacrifice some fuel economy compared to the 4-cylinder, the added performance can be well worth it for drivers who enjoy a more spirited driving style. If you frequently drive on the highway, or if you simply appreciate having extra power on tap, the V6 engine is definitely worth considering. The 2017 Camry XSE with the V6 engine is a car that can be both practical and fun, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.

Performance and Handling

The 2017 Toyota Camry XSE isn’t just about engine power; it’s also about how that power translates to overall performance and handling. The XSE trim is specifically designed to offer a sportier driving experience compared to the other Camry models. This includes enhancements to the suspension, steering, and overall vehicle dynamics. Let's explore what makes the Camry XSE stand out in terms of performance.

Suspension and Handling

The XSE trim features a sport-tuned suspension that provides a firmer and more controlled ride. This means that the car feels more planted and stable, especially when cornering. The suspension is designed to minimize body roll and improve responsiveness, giving the driver more confidence behind the wheel. While the ride is firmer than the standard Camry, it's still comfortable enough for daily driving. The XSE strikes a good balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort. The steering is also more precise and responsive in the XSE trim. This makes the car feel more agile and easier to maneuver, whether you're navigating city streets or winding country roads. The combination of the sport-tuned suspension and enhanced steering makes the Camry XSE a genuinely enjoyable car to drive.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Both the 4-cylinder and V6 engines in the 2017 Camry XSE are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes, optimizing both performance and fuel economy. The transmission also features a sport mode, which allows for quicker shifts and a more aggressive driving experience. In sport mode, the transmission holds gears longer and downshifts more readily, making the car feel more responsive. The Camry XSE is a front-wheel-drive vehicle, which is typical for mid-size sedans. Front-wheel drive provides good traction in most driving conditions and helps to improve fuel economy. While all-wheel drive is not available on the 2017 Camry XSE, the front-wheel-drive system is more than capable for everyday driving needs.

Acceleration and Braking

The acceleration of the 2017 Camry XSE varies depending on the engine. The 4-cylinder engine provides adequate acceleration for most drivers, while the V6 engine offers significantly quicker acceleration. As mentioned earlier, the V6 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, which is quite impressive for a mid-size sedan. The braking performance of the Camry XSE is also commendable. The car features disc brakes on all four wheels, providing strong and consistent stopping power. The brakes are easy to modulate, allowing for smooth and controlled stops. The Camry XSE also comes standard with a variety of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control. These features work together to enhance safety and prevent accidents.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2017 Toyota Camry XSE offers competitive fuel efficiency for its class. However, fuel economy varies depending on the engine. Let's take a closer look at the fuel economy ratings for both the 4-cylinder and V6 engines.

2.5-Liter 4-Cylinder Fuel Economy

The 2017 Camry XSE with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. These numbers are quite good for a mid-size sedan, making the 4-cylinder Camry XSE an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency. The 4-cylinder engine is designed to provide a balance of power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily driving. If you spend a lot of time commuting or driving long distances, the 4-cylinder Camry XSE can help you save money on fuel costs.

3.5-Liter V6 Fuel Economy

The 2017 Camry XSE with the 3.5-liter V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. While these numbers are lower than the 4-cylinder, they are still respectable for a V6 engine. The V6 engine provides significantly more power than the 4-cylinder, so the trade-off in fuel economy may be worth it for drivers who value performance. If you don't drive as much, or if you're willing to spend a bit more on fuel in exchange for extra power, the V6 Camry XSE is a great choice.

Interior and Features

Beyond horsepower and performance, the 2017 Toyota Camry XSE boasts a well-appointed interior and a range of features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and technology. Let's delve into what the interior has to offer and the features that make the Camry XSE a compelling choice.

Interior Design and Comfort

The interior of the 2017 Camry XSE is designed with both style and comfort in mind. The XSE trim features unique interior accents, such as sport seats with premium cloth or leather upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. These features give the interior a more upscale and sporty feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long drives. The Camry XSE also offers plenty of space for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats are especially spacious, providing ample legroom and headroom for adults. The trunk is also quite large, offering plenty of room for luggage or groceries.

Technology and Convenience Features

The 2017 Camry XSE comes standard with a variety of technology and convenience features. These include a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. The infotainment system is easy to use and features a responsive touchscreen display. The rearview camera makes it easier to back up and park, while Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stream music and make hands-free phone calls. Optional features include a navigation system, a sunroof, and a premium sound system. The navigation system provides turn-by-turn directions, while the sunroof lets in more natural light. The premium sound system delivers excellent audio quality, making your music sound its best.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the 2017 Camry XSE comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features. These include anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, and a full array of airbags. The Camry XSE also comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety technologies. Toyota Safety Sense includes features such as pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. The 2017 Camry XSE has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), giving you peace of mind.

Conclusion

The 2017 Toyota Camry XSE is a standout choice in the mid-size sedan market, offering a blend of sporty performance, comfortable interiors, and advanced features. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency with the 4-cylinder engine or crave the extra power of the V6, the Camry XSE delivers a satisfying driving experience. Its sport-tuned suspension and enhanced steering make it more engaging than your average sedan, while its comprehensive suite of safety features provides peace of mind. If you're in the market for a reliable, stylish, and fun-to-drive sedan, the 2017 Toyota Camry XSE is definitely worth considering.