Posted: 21/06/2017
Toyota Australia will launch an all-new premium Camry in November featuring dynamic design and performance credentials, including new direct-injection hybrid and V6 powertrains.
The eighth-generation Camry is built on a new platform that underpins more evocative styling, sportier handling and agility, improved ride comfort and advanced technologies.
Camry is the first Toyota sedan to adopt TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture), which has transformed the way the company designs, engineers and packages its vehicles.
This lightweight and high-strength structure improves torsional rigidity by 30 per cent, enabling Toyota to apply its engineering and design strengths for a more dynamic character with added emotional appeal in the way Camry looks, feels and drives.
Other "firsts" for Camry include LED headlamps, double-wishbone rear suspension and an electric parking brake as well as available 19-inch alloy wheels, 10-inch colour head-up display, 8-inch touch-screen audio display and 7-inch multi-information display in the instrument cluster.
Toyota's advanced safety suite is standard, including a pre-collision system with autonomous emergency braking, all-speed active cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beam, a reversing camera and seven airbags. Select variants will also come with blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert.
Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said new Camry's creators have produced a more refined, athletic image while injecting a fun driving experience with rapid acceleration, crisp handling and enhanced ride comfort.
"Driving enthusiasts in particular will appreciate the next-generation hybrid Camry that is engineered to provide spirited performance and driving enjoyment along with impressive gains to fuel efficiency," Mr Cramb said.
"At the same time, Camry retains the proven, dependable and safe reputation that has made it Australia's top-selling mid-size car for almost a quarter of a century,"
he said.
Two new powertrains with direct-injection engine technology will be available on the next-generation Camry, in addition to a four-cylinder petrol with revised six-speed automatic transmission.
The latest Toyota Hybrid System provides spirited performance and driving enjoyment as well as significantly improved fuel economy.
It features new sequential shift technology that provides access to six ratios via the shift lever or available paddle shifters.
The system combines an all-new 2.5-litre in-line four-cylinder D-4S direct-injection petrol engine with lighter, smaller and more efficient hybrid components.
Normal, Eco and Sport driving modes can be engaged even in electric-only (EV) operation.
A new Auto Glide Control system acts like a neutral gear to help improve fuel efficiency while ensuring smooth engine braking when coasting, such as towards a red light.
Hybrid system combined output is 155kW with overall fuel economy expected to be below 4.5 litres/100km1.
The 2018 model-year Camry is also available with a new 3.5-litre V6 engine with
D-4S direct injection, paired with a new eight-speed direct-shift automatic transmission.
With an efficient 11.8:1 compression ratio and able to utilise both the Otto and Atkinson cycles for optimum performance and efficiency, the V6 has expected power and torque figures around 222kW @ 6,600 rpm and 356Nm @ 4,700 rpm.
Further aiding performance is new fully independent double-wishbone rear suspension system that contributes to responsive handling, precise steering control and comfort.
Camry's premium styling features a dynamic silhouette with deeply sculpted character lines, an extended roofline and a longer, wider stance with lower bonnet and roof lines that reflect the car's lower centre of gravity.
Interior space has been maintained by lowering the occupants' hip points and therefore seating positions.
There are two different front masks, each featuring a two-piece grille with an upper section that accommodates a commanding Toyota emblem.
The sporty version adopts large side intakes and a powerfully expressive gloss black mesh grille.
All models are equipped with LED headlights, DRLs and taillights.
Camry will offer greater distinction between grades including 17, 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Sports grades will also be fitted with an aggressive body kit.
A high-quality cabin features a sporty cockpit for the driver and a sense of openness and freedom for passengers.
Interior surfaces employ premium soft-touch materials with an advanced mixture of tones and hues to enhance passenger comfort and visual satisfaction.
Re-engineered seats offer improved refinement, ergonomics and comfort with detailed stitching that reflects the high level of craftsmanship throughout the vehicle.
Through TNGA, the Camry now has an ideal driving position for the driver, allowing for better concentration on the road ahead while helping to reduce fatigue.
These changes, along with a lower beltline, redesigned instrument panel and thinner windscreen pillars, improve visibility and therefore safety.
Luggage space is improved with a gain of 30 litres in hybrid variants due to relocating the hybrid battery from the boot to beneath the rear seat, which also aids driving characteristics.
Increased use of high-strength steel and hot stamping materials contribute to weight reduction.
New construction techniques have led to the use of thinner body panels for the roof, bonnet and boot lid, front and rear doors and front fenders.
Laser Screw Welding in key areas and special adhesives help to realise increased body rigidity, along with additional rear bracing.
Additional sound absorbing and insulating materials result in a quieter cabin.
Disclaimer:
1 Preliminary estimate based on test conditions. Actual results may vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle condition and options/accessories fitted. Fuel consumption data provided for comparison purposes only. Source: ADR 81/02 combined cycle (litres/100km).