Toyota camry

Rs 30.28 - 30.9 lakhs (Ex-showroom Price (New Delhi)

Over the years, Toyota gained immense prominence and has introduced various high-end vehicles in the Indian auto market. Camry is one of such vehicles and is demanded for its aristocratic looks, great performance and comfortable interiors. The sedan was first launched in 2002 and in 2015 it has seen exterior and interior upgrades.

Exterior

The auto maker has done an exceptional job in styling the exteriors of this sedan to give a luxurious look. This glorious sedan comes with attractive chrome accentuation. The aerodynamic body structure of this sedan is sleek and lustrous. Moving to the front fascia, the chrome treated redesigned radiator grille looks amazing. Further, it is fitted with a revamped headlight cluster, which is integrated with high intensity LED lamps. This variant features a redesigned muscular and huge bumper, which has a large air dam and a lot of chrome inserts. A set of new fog lights is mounted on either side with chrome surroundings. The side profile has chrome finished window sill, body colour door handles & side mouldings and electrically adjustable external wing mirrors. Taking a tour of the rear view, this sedan boasts of a thick chrome strip, and a curvy boot lid with variant badging on it. The rear bumper is integrated with a bright tail light cluster, LED high mounted stop light and exhaust pipe.

Interior

The interiors of this sedan have seen an upgrade and are classier than before. Its beige theme dashboard is wide and has a centre console, wood inserts and steering wheel. Other features of the dashboard are air conditioner vents, leather wrapped steering wheel, a large glove box and a redesigned silver instrument panel. Apart from these, it features a digital tachometer, door ajar warning, electronic trip meter, speedometer and seat belt warning notification. The cabin is very spacious and is incorporated with a lot of sophisticated features. The seats are well-cushioned and comfortable, and for more comfort, adjustable head rests and centre arm rest are integrated in the cabin.

A touchscreen stereo system is also embedded in this sedan for the entertainment purpose of passengers. It comes with a lot of features like radio with AM/FM tuner, audio streaming, USB interface, Bluetooth connectivity, CD/MP3 player, Aux-in Port and six speakers. Various options including audio, cruise control and call buttons are mounted on the power steering wheel for ease of access while driving.

Engine and Transmission

The engine of latest variant has not seen any upgrade and is loaded with advanced 2.5-litre petrol engine. This power-packed engine is capable of producing a maximum power of 178.5 bhp with peak torque output of 233 Nm. A six-speed automatic transmission system is integrated, which transmits the produced output to its front wheels. The same engine is equipped in the hybrid variant of this sedan, which has permanent magnet synchronous motor for enhanced performance. The engine comes with three modes of power output including 157.8 bhp, 141 bhp and 202.1 bhp as well as two different torque outputs of 213 Nm and 270 Nm. An electronic variable transmission system is mated in this trim that allows it to deliver a breath-taking maximum speed. The electronic fuel injection supply system encourages high-end performance even in tough driving conditions.

Performance and Handling

Toyota Camry has the capacity of breaching a speed barrier of 100 kmph in approx. 7.8 seconds from standstill. Further, it can reach up to a maximum speed range of 180 to 185 kmph with the help of a six-speed automatic gearbox. The automatic hybrid variant helps the motor to reach a speed in the range of 190 kmph to 195 kmph while accelerating to 100 kmph in just about 9.3 seconds of start.

With the help of multi-point fuel injection supply system, the petrol variant of this sedan delivers a decent mileage of 13 kmpl on highways and 9.5 kmpl in city. While advanced electronic fuel injection supply system in automatic hybrid version, the car offers 19.1 kmph on highways and 16.3 kmpl in city. The electric variable steering wheel is highly responsive and comes with telescopic adjustment function, and thus it has a turning radius of 5.3 meters.

Braking Systems

Apart from the engine performance, the real power of a vehicle is judged by an efficient braking and reliable suspension mechanism. The front axle of this sedan is equipped with a McPherson strut while the rear has dual link type of mechanism. These are assisted by stabilizer bar along with coil springs for enhanced stability and balance. The braking mechanism is mated with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) function prevents the vehicle from traction while driving. In addition to these features, a set of ventilated disc brakes is mounted on front wheels while the rear wheels have a set of solid disc brakes along with brake assist system.

Mileage

The 2494 cc Hybrid - powered variant delivers a fuel economy of 17 kmpl in city and 19 kmpl on highways, while the Petrol variant offers a mileage of 10 kmpl on urban roads and 12 kmpl and freeways, respectively.

Safety Features

Various safety features are integrated in this stylish sedan for utmost safety of passengers. To simplify the parking, the vehicle has clearance and back sonar with illustration display. It has an advanced engine immobilizer along with security alarm system, which gives prevention from unauthorized entry into vehicle. Additionally, SRS airbags are fitted for the safety of driver and co-passenger. It also has speed limiter, anti-pinch windows, ISOFIX child seats mounting points, speed sensing automatic door lock and impact sensing fuel cut-off.

Verdict

Considering the styling quotient, sturdiness, safety features, suspension mechanism and power-packed engine, Toyota Camry hybrid is definitely a good buy.The hybrid variant can replace a diesel sedan provided more features are added.

Competitors

The Camry Sedan competes with Volkswagen Passat, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Skoda Superb.

Pros

1. Engine Performance is quite good
2. Great exteriors
3. Good safety measures
4. Innovative comfort features
5. Offers stability at high speed

Cons

1. Maintenance cost is expensive
2. Inefficient fuel economy of petrol variant
3. Lower ground clearance
4. Scope of better suspension system
5. Limited colour options