The latest iteration of the Toyota Camry has been launched in Thailand with prices ranging from 1,445,000 baht (around INR 31.99 lakhs) to 1,799,000 baht (around INR 39.82 lakhs). The entry D segment premium sedan is available in four variants, offering two powertrain options.
The new gen Toyota Camry for Europe and Asia adopts a sportier design language that is derived from the US-spec version. The sedan is based on the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) and has a wheelbase which is longer than its predecessor by a good 50 mm. The new model is 35 mm longer, 15 mm wider and 25 mm wider.
The rich equipment list includes LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels (higher variants), sunroof, twin exhaust, 8-way electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, touchscreen infotainment system, keyless entry with push button start, MID, triple zone climate control, touch sensitive AC controls in rear armrest, JBL audio system, HUD, etc,. The safety equipment includes 7 airbags on base variant (9 on top-end variant), rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitor, VSC, ABS, EBD, BA, Hill Start Assist and so on.
The entry level variant is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder direct-injection petrol motor that develops 167 PS and 199 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 6-speed automatic unit. The second variant is powered by the new 2.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine (petrol) which is good enough for 209 PS and 150 Nm of torque. This mill is mated to a 8-speed automatic transmission. The fully loaded variant also receives a comprehensive ADAS package called Toyota Safety Sense.
The remaining two variants employ the same 2.5-liter petrol engine but benefit from a hybrid system. In the hybrid avatar, the IC engine produces 178 PS and 221 Nm of torque while an electric motor pitches in with 120 PS and 202 Nm of torque. The combined system outputs stand at 211 PS. Called as the Toyota Hybrid System II, it is supported by a 6.5 Ah nickel-metal hydride battery pack and an E-CVT.
The Toyota Camry has carved a niche for itself in the Indian luxury car segment, thanks to its understated appeal and a peaceful ownership experience. The latest version has already been spotted testing in India. We expect it to be launched soon. Here it will rival the likes of Honda Accord Hybrid and Skoda Superb.
