Toyota Motor USA announced the 2026 model on May 1, 2025 (local time), which includes a special edition “Night Shade Edition” of the new Camry.
In recent years, Toyota has been releasing a number of special edition vehicles in the domestic market with black accents throughout the body, attracting the attention of users. For example, the successive release of models featuring black accents, such as the Yaris Cross and Yaris-based Urbano in 2025, and the Night Shade Edition, which was released on June 11, 2025, for the partially improved Harrier , shows how popular they are. This trend is not limited to Japan, and similar trends can be seen in overseas markets as well.
In particular, the Camry, Toyota’s flagship sedan sold globally, will undergo a full model change into its ninth generation in 2024, reborn as a model with new appeal. The first special edition vehicle based on this latest new Camry has been announced for the North American market: the “Night Shade Edition.” Like the Night Shade Prius and Venza models already proven successful at Toyota USA, this model also boasts a special black-themed design. This time, we’ll take a closer look at the details of this noteworthy special edition “Night Shade Edition,” as well as the latest information on the new 2026 Camry and its appeal.
- All models of the new Camry are hybrids: The new ninth-generation Toyota Camry is now available in all grades as a hybrid model.
- AWD available on all grades: In addition to FWD, an electronically controlled on-demand AWD (all-wheel drive) system is available on all grades.
- Introducing the special edition “Night Shade Edition”: The 2026 model year sees the addition of the “Night Shade Edition,” featuring black accents throughout.
- The Night Shade looks as good as it drives: In addition to unique styling features like exclusive black-painted 19-inch wheels, it also comes standard with a sport-tuned suspension.
- Main changes for the 2026 model: A new color, “Dark Cosmos,” will be added to some grades.
- Powertrain and Driving Performance: Equipped with a fifth-generation THS and a 2.5L engine, the AWD model delivers a maximum output of 232hp. SE, Nightshade, and XSE grades feature a sports suspension.
- Advanced Technology: Enjoy extensive connectivity features, including a large touchscreen (up to 12.3 inches), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Qi charging, and available Digital Key.
- Latest safety features: The latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) and blind spot monitors are standard on all vehicles, providing high levels of safety.
- U.S. release date: The 2026 model is scheduled to arrive at Toyota dealerships in fall 2025.
The special edition “Night Shade Edition” is a must-have: bold black accents emanate individuality
The special edition “Night Shade Edition” added to the new Camry lineup, as its name suggests, uses Midnight Black Metallic accent colors throughout the interior and exterior, further tightening the base model’s sophisticated appearance and emphasizing a bold and sporty atmosphere. Specifically, Midnight Black Metallic parts are placed on various exterior parts such as the front grille, air curtains, side canards, outer door handles, side mirror caps, shark fin antenna, rear lower sports diffuser, and rear spoiler. This further enhances the distinctive presence that is unique to the Camry.
The car comes standard with 19-inch black aluminum wheels designed exclusively for this special edition vehicle, and together with the gloss black badges, it has a unified blacked-out look. You can enjoy the contrast with vibrant colors such as Ice Cap (a white color) and Supersonic Red, which feature accents of Midnight Black Metallic, or you can pursue a cool style with an all-black body by opting for Midnight Black Metallic.
What makes the Night Shade Edition more than just a cosmetic customization is its attention to driving performance. This special edition vehicle is equipped with the exclusive sports-tuned suspension that is standard on sports grades such as the SE and XSE. This suspension features dedicated shock absorbers in the front and rear, with a larger diameter stabilizer bar in the front than on other grades. This results in a firm ride, excellent stability, and agile handling. The Night Shade Edition’s greatest appeal is its specifications that allow you to experience a dynamic driving experience befitting its sporty appearance.
The interior features SofTex® trim seats with sporty white accents effectively placed in a modern, black-based space. This creates a well-defined cabin that, despite its monotonous tone, is not monotonous. Surprisingly, aluminum sports pedals are also standard equipment, not only providing a sense of place for the driver’s feet but also improving the feel of the pedals when operated. Other standard features include a genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, a 7-inch digital meter cluster, an 8-inch infotainment system, and a wireless smartphone charger, providing a comfortable and functional driving environment.
2026 Model New Camry Full Lineup Evolution and Composition
With the addition of the special edition Nightshade Edition, the 2026 Toyota Camry lineup will consist of five trim levels: LE, SE, XLE, XSE, and Nightshade Edition. This expands the range to meet a wider range of customer needs. All five trim levels are available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
For the 2026 model, some improvements will be made to the standard grade, but the changes will be limited. The main change will be the addition of a new color, Dark Cosmos, described as a “sensual, hazy blue,” to the SE, XLE, and XSE grades. No other improvements have been announced, and the car is expected to basically follow the specifications of the existing model year with a price revision. The specific price range will be announced around summer 2025, as the release date approaches. Attention will be focused on how much the price will be affected by global events, particularly the impact of Trump’s tariffs.
Powertrain and driving performance: balancing efficiency and dynamism
One of the biggest advancements in the new Camry is its hybrid system, which is now available on all grades. It combines the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5) with a highly efficient 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder “Dynamic Force Engine.” This hybrid system produces a maximum system output of 225 horsepower in front-wheel drive models and 232 horsepower in all-wheel drive models. This increase in output compared to the previous model delivers stronger, smoother acceleration.
The THS 5 has been meticulously tuned by Toyota engineers, and by increasing the amount of power supplied from the lithium-ion drive battery to the electric motor generator, particularly during acceleration, it suppresses sudden increases in engine speed and provides a natural, linear acceleration feeling that is more in sync with engine speed.
The transmission is an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT), which is also tuned to intelligently select the right gear ratio based on the driver’s throttle input, delivering a sporty and seamless power driving experience while also helping to maximize fuel economy.
Fuel economy is a key strength of hybrid models, and the new Camry achieves impressive figures. For example, the LE grade FWD model achieves an impressive manufacturer-estimated combined fuel economy of 51 MPG (approximately 21.6 km/L). The all-wheel drive model also boasts impressive fuel economy of 19.6 km/L (US standard) in city, highway, and combined driving.
It’s also worth noting that all grades of the new Camry are equipped with an electronically controlled on-demand all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This system is designed to work seamlessly with the THS 5 and drives the rear wheels using an electric motor-generator mounted on the rear axle. This allows the system to achieve a maximum output of 232 horsepower in AWD mode, a significant increase of 30 horsepower compared to the previous Camry, which was equipped with mechanical AWD. This system precisely distributes torque between the front and rear wheels depending on the driving situation, supporting acceleration, handling, and stability in everyday driving situations. In particular, on slippery roads or when tire grip is reduced, the system instantly controls torque distribution to the rear wheels to provide sufficient traction, maintaining the vehicle on a stable trajectory and providing the driver with increased peace of mind.
The suspension system also contributes significantly to the new Camry’s excellent driving performance. All models feature an optimally tuned MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, which provide highly responsive suspension and agile handling, enhancing the thrill of driving even on winding roads. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the SE, Nightshade Edition, and XSE grades feature an exclusive sport-tuned suspension, which combines comfort with excellent stability and sharper handling, providing a high level of driving confidence.
The braking system uses an Electronically Controlled Brake System (ECB), which applies pressure on demand via a pump motor in the brake actuator, providing ideal control and a natural braking feel. Drivers can also customize the Camry’s driving character to their preferences using three standard selectable driving modes: Normal, Eco, and Sport.
Sophisticated exterior design: Expressing the individuality of each grade
The ninth-generation Camry was designed at Toyota’s CALTY design studio in Newport Beach, California, and Ann Arbor, Michigan. This resulted in an attractive look that combines traditional sedan proportions with refinement and sportiness. The front face features Toyota’s latest design icon, the distinctive “hammerhead” motif, creating a fresh, modern look. All grades come standard with LED headlights and daytime running lights, ensuring excellent visibility at night and in bad weather.
Each grade has its own unique exterior styling. The LE and XLE grades feature a more sophisticated, urban style. The LE grade features a black horizontal bar front grille, while the XLE grade features a dark metallic gray horizontal bar front grille. The LE grade comes standard with 16-inch aluminum wheels, while the XLE grade comes standard with 18-inch aluminum wheels with a black machined finish. Furthermore, the XLE grade features the same chrome Camry name badge as the LE grade, as well as chrome window trim, differentiating it from the other grades.
Meanwhile, the SE, XSE, and newly added Nightshade Edition models emphasize an aggressive, sporty ambiance. These sport grades feature a sporty mesh-type front grille and sporty rocker panels on the sides. The sleek roofline and sculpted body lines are accentuated by black accents (select parts are Midnight Black Metallic on the Nightshade Edition). Functional front side air ducts, canards, rear spoiler, and rear diffuser not only emphasize the racing-inspired design but also contribute to aerodynamic performance. The exposed dual-tip exhaust at the rear further enhances the sporty look. The Camry name badge is styled in gloss black on these sport grades, while the XSE, in particular, features a unique blacked-out trunk garnish. The XSE grade also features a body-color front grille, front side canards, and rear diffuser for an even more aggressive, sporty look, garnering attention. As for wheels, the SE grade is equipped with 18-inch black aluminum wheels, while the XSE grade is equipped with 19-inch black and smoke gray aluminum wheels. As mentioned above, the Night Shade Edition is equipped with exclusive black painted 19-inch aluminum wheels.
A wide range of exterior colors are available, including Ocean Gem, Heavy Metal, Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Celestial Silver Metallic, Underground, Midnight Black Metallic, Supersonic Red, Reservoir Blue, and the new Dark Cosmos. Furthermore, the XSE grade offers a two-tone option that combines Ocean Gem, Wind Chill Pearl, Heavy Metal, or Supersonic Red body colors with a Midnight Black Metallic roof, creating an even more distinctive look.
High-quality interior and comfort: A comfortable space with meticulous attention to detail
The new Camry’s cabin combines impeccable craftsmanship, a modern open concept and sophisticated materials to deliver a unique experience across each trim level of interior design.
As mentioned above, the sporty SE and Nightshade Edition models come standard with SofTex®-trimmed seats featuring sporty white accents. The SE model offers a choice of Boulder or Black interior colors, while the Nightshade Edition only offers a Black interior. The top-of-the-line XSE model comes standard with a leather-trimmed interior featuring artistic “shooting blade” pattern perforations on the side door trim and seat surfaces. The XSE interior is available in two colors: Black with blue perforations and a passionate Cockpit Red. All sport grades, including the SE, Nightshade Edition, and XSE, come standard with aluminum sport pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, and a leather-wrapped shift knob, enhancing the driving experience.
The LE and XLE grades each offer their own unique interior character and style. The LE grade features embossed woven fabric seats with an intricate ocean wave design, and is available with boulder or black interior trim and seats. The luxury XLE grade is the first Toyota Camry to feature trim that combines leather and Dinamica® microfiber. The front door panels and dashboard also feature a quilted Dinamica® trim pattern, creating a luxurious feel that is both visually and tactilely appealing. Interior colors are available in light gray or black.
In designing the ninth-generation Camry, engineers significantly improved comfort by revising the shape and density of the seat cushions and extending their length. Headrests are also softer and moved further back to optimize occupant posture, resulting in a comfortable, fatigue-free ride even on long drives. Further enhancing this comfort are heated front seats, standard on the XLE and XSE models and optional on the LE and SE. Higher trim levels offer heated front seats, as well as a heated steering wheel and optional ventilated front seats. XLE and XSE models also come standard with eight-way power seats for both the driver and passenger, making it easy to find the optimal driving position.
The cabin is also quieter, with the XLE and XSE grades featuring standard acoustic laminated glass on the front sides that effectively reduces wind noise and external noise, creating a quiet and tranquil cabin.
The all-new Camry also sets a new standard for convenience. Push-button start and dual-zone automatic climate control with independent temperature settings and rear air vents are standard on all next-generation models. Additionally, for multi-driver households, the XLE and XSE offer optional driver’s seat and door mirror memory. For added convenience, the XLE also offers optional rain-sensing automatic wipers. And, for the first time on a Camry Hybrid, the XLE and XSE offer an optional power tilt-and-slide panoramic roof and power-folding sunshades, enhancing the open cabin feel.
Advanced technology and connectivity: an intuitive and connected user experience
The 2026 Camry delivers a comfortable and connected user experience for drivers and passengers through advanced technology and extensive connectivity features. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster is standard on the LE, SE, and Nightshade Editions, while the XLE and XSE grades feature a higher-resolution 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster. A 10-inch head-up display (HUD) is also available as an option on the XLE and XSE grades. The HUD projects speed information, warning lights, turn-by-turn navigation information, and more onto the windshield, helping drivers stay focused on the road ahead.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia System features a standard 8-inch touchscreen display or an optional larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. It comes wirelessly compatible with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ as standard, and by linking with the standard Qi wireless charging pad, you can charge your smartphone while using various apps without the hassle of cables. All trim levels of the new Camry come standard with a total of five USB ports: three in the front (two USB-C media ports and one USB-A media port) and two in the rear (one USB-C media port and one USB-A media port), providing enough space to connect and charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Connectivity options are also extensively expanded. Toyota Audio Multimedia can connect two mobile phones simultaneously via Bluetooth®. A Wi-Fi Connect** trial (30 days/3GB) or subscription allows for in-car Wi-Fi connectivity with up to five devices over 4G.
With an active Drive Connect trial or subscription (some trim levels include a one-year trial), Camry drivers can control the system with voice in addition to touch. The intelligent assistant available through Drive Connect can be activated with a simple phrase like “Hey Toyota,” and various voice commands can be used to get directions, find points of interest (POIs), adjust audio controls, change the interior temperature, and more. Over-the-air updates are also supported, ensuring the system software stays up to date.
Audio playback capabilities are also extensive, with HD Radio®, USB data input, and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM® standard. Additionally, a Wi-Fi Connect** trial or subscription unlocks Integrated Streaming, which allows you to link your Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscription accounts to your vehicle and enjoy streaming music through the in-car controls (with a one-month trial). For those who prefer high-quality sound on the go, the Camry XLE and XSE grades offer an optional nine-speaker JBL® premium audio system.
The Camry also offers additional connected services. Safety Connect, which includes a minimum five-year trial, offers services such as an emergency assistance button (SOS), 24/7 enhanced roadside assistance, automatic collision notification, and a stolen vehicle locator. Service Connect, which includes a minimum five-year trial, offers vehicle health reports and maintenance alerts and reminders.
Digital Key feature is available on XLE and XSE trim levels with the Premium or Premium Plus package and an active Remote Connect** trial or subscription, allowing drivers to use their smartphone as a car key via the Toyota app for passive entry unlocking of the front doors and trunk, as well as push-button starting from inside the vehicle (select trim levels include a one-year trial).
Subscription required after trial period. Depends on 4G network.
Comprehensive safety equipment: Peace of mind protected by advanced technology
The Toyota Camry is equipped with a wide range of the latest advanced safety features and driver assistance systems, providing a high level of peace of mind for drivers and passengers. A Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) is standard on all models, designed to warn the driver when a vehicle in the adjacent lane enters the Camry’s blind spot. When reversing, the standard Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) detects vehicles approaching from the left and right and alerts the driver with door mirror indicators and an audible warning. Additionally, the standard Safe Exit Alert system uses rear side radar sensors installed inside the rear bumper to detect vehicles or cyclists approaching from behind that could pose a risk of collision when opening the door, providing a warning to occupants.
Toyota’s advanced safety driver assistance system, Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 3.0, is also standard on the 2026 Toyota Camry. The system includes the following features:
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD) detects vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorcyclists and, under certain conditions, provides audible and visual warnings of a potential forward collision. If the driver does not react, automatic emergency braking can be activated to help avoid or mitigate a collision.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with All-Speed Range Tracking: Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is an adaptive cruise control system that operates at speeds of approximately 32 km/h (20 mph) or above. It automatically controls speed to maintain a constant distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing the burden on the driver on highways and other roads.
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Lane Departure Alert (LDA w/SA) detects lane or shoulder intrusions at speeds above 30 mph (approximately 48 km/h). If the system detects inadvertent lane departure, it provides audible and visual warnings. If no corrective action is taken by the driver, Steering Assist will provide gentle corrective steering inputs to help keep the vehicle in its lane.
Lane Tracing Assist: Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) is designed to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane when DRCC is in use. It assists the driver in steering and keeps the vehicle centered in the lane, providing more stable driving.
Road Sign Assist: Road Sign Assist (RSA) uses the forward-facing camera to recognize certain road signs, such as speed limits, stop signs and yield signs. Information about the recognized signs is provided to the driver via the multi-information display, helping to prevent signs from being overlooked.
Automatic High Beam: Automatic High Beam (AHB) detects oncoming headlights and taillights of vehicles ahead and automatically switches between high and low beams depending on the situation, ensuring nighttime visibility while reducing glare to oncoming and preceding vehicles.
Proactive Driving Assist: When the system’s activation conditions are met, Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) uses the vehicle’s camera and radar to provide gentle braking and steering assistance to assist with driving maneuvers such as distance control to vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists ahead, and provides gentle braking when entering curves, supporting smoother and safer driving.
For more information about TSS 3.0, please visit Toyota’s official website ( e.g., Toyota.com/safety-sense ).
For those looking for additional driver assistance features, the XLE and XSE grades offer the optional Premium Plus package, which includes features such as: Jam Assist*** to support driving in traffic jams, Forward Cross Traffic Alert to detect and warn of approaching vehicles from both sides when turning at an intersection, Lane Change Assist to assist with lane changes, Panoramic View Monitor to display a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, Front and Rear Park Assist to warn of approaching obstacles and apply the brakes automatically, as well as memory functions for the driver’s seat and door mirrors, and rain-sensing automatic wipers, providing even greater safety and convenience.
Queue Assist may require an active Drive Connect subscription.
A word from the editorial department
Toyota’s new Camry has evolved into its ninth generation, enhancing its appeal in every aspect, including design, driving performance, technology, and safety equipment. As a dedicated hybrid model, it combines excellent fuel economy with powerful driving, and the AWD system available on all models provides high driving stability on a variety of road conditions. The refined yet sporty design has different personalities for each grade, satisfying the preferences of a wide range of users. Advanced connectivity features provide a comfortable and connected mobility experience, and the latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which comes as standard, provides a high level of peace of mind during your daily driving.
The newly announced special edition “Night Shade Edition” adds bold, sporty styling with black accents and a taut ride thanks to a special sports suspension, making it a noteworthy model. Toyota has been aggressively rolling out special edition vehicles with black accents in recent years, which have proven very popular in Japan, and the Camry “Night Shade Edition” will undoubtedly be an attractive option for customers seeking a stylish and distinctive model.
For the 2026 model year, a new color, Dark Cosmos, has been added to the standard grade, further strengthening the entire lineup. It is scheduled to arrive at Toyota dealerships in the fall of 2025, and pricing is expected to be announced shortly. It will be interesting to see how the legendary Camry evolves with hybridization and the latest technology, and how it will be accepted by the market.
