
6th-generation Camry is equipped with 4-speed automatic, 4-speed manual/automatic, and 6-speed manual/automatic transmissions. The transmission, also known as a gearbox, is an automotive component used to alter the speed and torque from the engine, and can fix or change the gear ratio between the output and input shafts. The transmission consists of a gear transmission mechanism and a control mechanism, and can be categorized into stepped, continuously variable, and integrated types, featuring functions such as enabling reverse driving, interrupting power transmission, and altering gear ratios. The 6th-generation Camry is a mid-sized 4-door 5-seater sedan under GAC Toyota, with dimensions of 4825mm in length, 1820mm in width, and 1485mm in height, a wheelbase of 2775mm, and a top speed of 196 kilometers per hour.

My old sixth-generation Camry has been running for ten years, the 2.0L version comes with the older 4AT transmission. Although there's a slight jerk when shifting gears, it's incredibly durable and perfectly adequate for city commuting. The 2.4L models with 5AT are much smoother, and back then the high-end 3.5L V6 engine had the best transmission, directly equipped with 6AT, keeping the RPM very stable on highways. Important reminder for everyone: the used car market is a mixed bag now, always open the engine bay to check the transmission nameplate. Last time I saw someone selling an old car with a modified transmission as original.

Having repaired Toyota vehicles for 15 years, I can recite the transmission configurations of the sixth-generation Camry with my eyes closed. In 2008, the shop frequently serviced the U241E four-speed transmission in the 2.0L models, mainly addressing valve body sticking and shift shock issues. The 2.4L models used the A760E five-speed transmission with a lower failure rate, but the torque converter needs inspection after exceeding 150,000 kilometers. The most reliable was the AB60E six-speed transmission in the 3.5L version, though it's now rare in the used car market. I recommend owners regularly change the genuine ATF fluid—the transmission filter is located inside the oil pan, so remember to clean out metal shavings during maintenance.

Tested three versions of the 6th-gen Camry transmissions: The 2.0L 4-speed model hesitates during hard acceleration downshifts, with cruising RPM soaring to 2200 at 80km/h. The 2.4L 5-speed shows much smarter shift logic, though it still 'ponders life' when you floor the throttle. The flagship 3.5L 6-speed is the real gem - closely spaced ratios deliver instant power, with period media tests showing 0-100km/h acceleration over 2 seconds faster than the 2.4L. The biggest gripe? No manual mode across the lineup, forcing reliance on brakes for long descents. Recent modification research revealed overseas markets got a 6MT version - a real shame it wasn't offered domestically.


