I always love heading to Scottsdale, Arizona to “research” (wink wink) spas. Not only do I love the treatments but it’s fun to test drive new cars — especially when they’re as comfortable as the 2018 Toyota Camry XSE.
I don’t necessarily love visiting Arizona when the temperature has crossed the three digit mark, though, so all I could think of when I first saw the shiny fire-engine red Camry was “hot.”
Although I was right that this car was hot, that term was only accurate when describing its style. I can’t tell you how many people did a double take and took the time to express their surprise at the fact that this sporty number was a Camry! Every valet gave it a once-over, then blessed me with a nod of respect.
But in terms of temperature, the Camry was so cool! The air conditioning came on fast and strong, making it very tempting for me to never leave the car. I mean, look at this cushy interior:
The Camry is filled with great safety and convenience features like the blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, an easy-to-use navigation system and this no-excuses bird’s eye view camera that shows you everything around you.
But the coolest feature? The Head-Up Display, a high-tech hologram that shows you lots of information — like the speed limit, your own speed, where to exit, whether you’re staying in your lane — all right on the windshield in front of you.
I couldn’t get a good photo because, well, it’s a hologram but I really wanted to show you how helpful it is. I thought it would be distracting but it’s not. It’s actually pretty amazing.
I was glad I was visiting a number of different resorts so I had an excuse to spend more time in the Camry. See how beautiful it looked at the Omni Montelucia, above; at the Phoenician
at the Four Seasons
and even when I stopped to say a quick hello to my friend at JW Marriott Camelback.
Through all my adventures, I felt as pampered in the Camry as I did in any of the spas.
If only I could have driven around in my robe …
This new Camry looks fantastic! It’s awesome affordable cars are starting to look higher end!
Wow, that’s so much nicer than the Camry I had for my first car back in 2005! I was worried about the red exterior with black interior when I bought my new Jeep a couple of years ago living in south Texas with temps close to triple digits, but it’s not as bad as you would think. And of course, knowing you are checking out some spas is always a good motivator!
I grew up in Tucson AZ and lived in Mesa for a couple of years. I love Scottsdale, AZ! This Camry looks so nice!
I have to admit that car is very beautiful! Would love to give it a ride!
Looks like a lovely car – not heard of it before so I guess we don’t have them in the UK… I like the idea of checking out spas too!
I’ve always been curious if the hologram would be distracting and I’m glad to hear it’s not. This looks like a lovely car, always good to have fast AC when the temperatures it triple digits!
I really do like the Camry. It is such a nice car that lasts forever.
Fast-and-strong AC is a MUST in this crazy summer heat! And I’m so glad that cars come with backup cameras nowadays for safety!
This is such a beautiful car! I need to remember this one when we start looking for new cars later this year.
I used to own a Toyota Camry back in then 90’s. I really like style, all the features and how roomy the 2018 Toyota Camry XSE looks.
This is such a beautiful vehicle. I love the new stylings that they have done with it.
Looks like a wonderful trip, “researching” spas 🙂 You were definitely traveling in style in that Camry, beautiful car!
I am no expert but this car sounds great! The technology in it sounds top and air conditioning is also a must!
Looks like a great vehicle. Thanks for the recommendation. It’s stressful to pick a car!!
I have always been curious about Arizona and the west in the USA. I only visited NYC a couple of years ago. Nice post for those considering picking up a car!
You had me at safety and convenience. It looks gorgeous as well, very sleek and elegant! I really need a car in my life…
Love the look of the car. Looks cosy and comfortable. The ideal way to chill and cruise around x
This looks so amazing! I how it looks so pricey but is actually affordable! The colour too is gorgeous.