Quite the mix of vehicles...most people shop type of vehicle (midsize sedan, SUV, minivan, small car, etc.).
The Camry that had problems was the V6 version. The I4 seems to fine from what I was reading.
As for best bang for your buck...probably the new Corolla. The 2009s have all of the safety features and are basically just as good as the Camry for safety (very very close now), have some of the nice amenities, and are good on gas. My 09 Corolla XRS has quit a bit of pep too as it has the Camry's 2.4L engine in the smaller and lighter Corolla body...I have a few complaints about the vehicle but they are non-mechanical.
Depends what you want...larger midsize, midrange compact, or a sub compact like the Yaris. Honestly I would cross shop at least the Honda's which generally have a very similar reliability record. Fit versus Yaris, Civic versus Corolla, and Accord versus Camry. Do it at least so that you know the differences...even if you prefer the Toyota's you'll at least know why on the terms that you feel are important.