Due for a redesign the next year, the 1996 Toyota Camry did not change much from the previous year. For the first time, leather seating was an option in the LE trim levels of the Camry sedan, coupe, and wagon.

The 1996 Toyota Camry sedan was available in the DX, SE, LE and XLE trim levels. The coupe came in the DX, SE and LE trim levels. The base DX version of the wagon was dropped in 1995, leaving only the LE. Available engines were a four-cylinder, 2.2 liter or a V6, 3.0 liter. Fuel economy was about 20 to 30 mpg, depending on the engine. The interior of all 1996 Camrys was well-designed, featuring comfortable seats, plenty of head and foot room, and easy to reach, logically-placed control buttons.

Owners of the 1996 Camry say that the car is not much fun to drive. Except for in the SE model, the ride feels “floaty” and almost too quiet and smooth, and there is not much interaction with the road. However, the Camry is meant to appeal to a wide audience, and many commuters might prefer a car they don't have to think about. By 1996, the Toyota Camry had firmly established its reputation for reliability and longevity.