To answer the question:
Generation 3 and 3.5: 1992-1996 model years
Generation 4 and 4.5: 1997-2001
Generation 5 and 5.5: 2002-2006
Generation 6 (and possible 6.5 in the future): 2007-2011 if the trend continues in model years.
A "generation" is a term used to describe a design of one particular model. The Camry was redesigned for 1997, so 1997 started a new "generation". Then it was fully redesigned for 2002, and that started a new generation as well.
Usually a model is updated with minor design changes, like headlight and taillight design; however, the overall vehicle still looks pretty much the same. To represent this minor design change in the same "generation", a .5 is added to the generation number. For example, the 4th generation Camry was changed slightly for 2000 by changing the taillight and headlight designs slightly (among other things), so the 2000 and 2001 models are called "generation 4.5". Typically, what I've seen with Camry designs, the last two years of each generation are slightly updated models. Generation 4.5 Camrys are for 2000 and 2001, and Generation 5.5 Camrys are 2005 and 2006. I would have to assume Generation 3.5 Camrys are 1995 and 1996.
At least this is how I understand it. I've never paid attention to the model years for generations one and two, though I also assume the pattern is the same (1982-1986 and 1987-1991, respectively).
1991 Toyota MR2
1996 Toyota Camry
Linear Mode
