Toyota Camry Hybrid Review & Pictures: Clairvoyant Camry


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350Z

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“Clairvoyant Camry”

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Toyota Camry Hybrid Review Synopsis:
  • Toyota Camry Hybrid price tag is Rs.31,92,000 (Ex.showroom, Delhi). It officially launched in India on 30th April 2015.
  • It's also available in Petrol-only version (powered by 2494cc engine churning 181 PS and 233 Nm torque) priced at Rs.28,80,000.
  • Globally, Toyota touts it as a second world-car after the Corolla. In Japan, Camry is sold exclusively through Toyota Corolla Store.
  • The Camry Hybrid is among the only three hybrid cars that are currently sold in India! Yup, other two being Toyota Prius and BMW i8.
  • Flamboyant, majestic and exhilarating are the words that instantly describe Camry. But is it really that worth shelling out three million rupees? Find out.
 
Thread Starter #2

350Z

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Overview and Design


Go green is the buzzword today yet there are only handful of automakers that actually have the courage to take the initiative of trying something out of the box in an uncertain market. Toyota is one of them. Time and time again, it has left audience in awe globally due to environment friendly and future-technologies. Hybrid cars may not necessarily be the cup of tea of Indian customers yet but future-led vision of Toyota didn’t allow it to become a reason for not bringing its technologies here. Since the launch of its first Hybrid in 2010, namely Prius, the Camry Hybrid is second offering that arrived in August 2013. Best known for 5-star interiors; here’s a luxury sedan costing over three million rupees that not only offers supreme comfort and looks to die for but is also extremely economical too.

Literally speaking, Toyota Camry Hybrid has no competition in its niche and those who’re not blindfolded by the snob value alone (read Mercedes-Benz, Audi or BMW) would find this car an interesting prospect. The model that you see in these images is the new-generation Camry in a killer outfit (codenamed XV50) with amazing attention to detail. Although based on same platform as pre-facelift version, this revamped new look has truly inducted in it a new lease of life. Most exterior panels have been swapped with an angular design. The sports-car like sleek long hood embodies a thick chrome panel right above the radiator grill while Toyota logo with bluish tinge (specific to Hybrid models) beautifully radiates in the middle. Enthusiasts will be prompt to find the headlamps shape identical to that of a Honda Civic.

Built-in dual projectors and striking daytime LEDs makes Camry a perfect head-turner. Additionally, bumper-integrated vertical indicators further aid to enhance sportiness. The XL-sized length as well as width (4850 mm and 1825 mm respectively) helps it to command a decent respect on road as bonus. Every time you see the car, its limousine stance is assured to bring a natural big wide smile on your face that will make you feel worth for each penny that you had to shell out. Contrary to the front, Toyota Camry becomes modest as you look on to side and rear profile. The side-view is unfussy and more or less on the lines of a European car, prominently gracing which are neat 15 spoke alloys sized 215/55 R17. A bold “Hybrid” badge on each front fender instantly distinguishes it from rest of the crowd.

 
Thread Starter #3

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Interiors, Features and Comfort


Open the door and you are bound to be astounded by the well-crafted interiors. It’s not surprising why the Camry has always been renowned for its plush interiors that comfortably cocoons you as in a five star hotel suite. Space, of course, is not a concern at all since the interiors have a sufficient width. Quality oozes through each and every panel that you look around. Leather-stitched dashboard has a sober, user-friendly design. Camry is equipped with advanced multi-function touch screen head unit (CD / MP3 / Bluetooth, USB, Aux-in compatible and bundled with eight surround speakers) that not only does a brilliant job for in-car entertainment unit but it also shows practical information about the Hybrid motor and can be tapped to configure certain in-car related settings.

Three-zone automatic climate control air-conditioner cools well and features what Toyota calls NanoE ion generation technology for added freshness (it’s activated or deactivated through a separate button on the center console). Three-zone climate control means temperature as well as ventilation for each seat (front two and rear) can be individually controlled. Get on to driver seat and you’ll find a clear view of the road ahead, thanks to a low-mounted dashboard and eight-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat. Moreover, memory function allows you to store upto two different configuration settings for steering wheel, driver seat and outside rear view mirrors. Simply press the memory button of desired pre-set configuration and the said components are automatically adjusted. Passenger side seat is eight-way power-adjustable too along with an extremely useful chauffeur-accessible switch to slide the seat and / or seatback.


Another sensible feature comes in form of passenger seat fold-down headrest to provide an unobstructed view if you’re sitting on the rear. Instrument cluster is outright gorgeous and literally makes you feel like you’re driving a future-tech laden car. It houses a sizeable 4.2” MID screen with two dials on each side. There are plenty of settings to fiddle on MID itself to keep you busy for sometime. Unlike the conventional tachometers, the one on Camry Hybrid is marked by zones rather than the numbers. i.e. Charge (Idle), Economy (Low and Mid range) and Power (High range). Apparently, you won’t find cubbyholes in cabin but there are plenty of them which are nicely concealed. Glovebox in itself is large (and lockable too) but illuminates only if the parking lamps are turned on. Apart from it, covered cup holders on center console, iPod charger and storage, deep front armrest storage and large door pockets with bottle holders are more than adequate.

Thanks to respectable exterior proportions and wide-opening doors, ingress and egress on front and rear alike is absolutely a breeze. Majestic sofa-like large rear seat and enormous space immediately makes you crave to sit on the rear. Toyota has thrown a 12V socket and a set of buttons on armrest so that you can still keep certain functions in command even when chauffeur driven. It includes seat back recline, audio system control, rear air-con temperature settings and rear windscreen power sunblind control. The rear armrest in itself is huge and has ample space to easily store a 600ml bottle. When flipped, seat can accommodate three adults, although the seatback for middle passenger is relatively stiff due to armrest and the legroom, to an extent, is restricted by protruding air-conditioner console. Other two passengers, however, will never have shortage of legroom and can completely stretch their legs and relax when the front seat is pushed forward. Though underthigh support could have been better. The seatback angle can be reclined by 8 degrees to offer a posture that you find most ideal.

 
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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Performance, Braking, Ride and Handling


What sets the Toyota Camry Hybrid apart from every other car in the vicinity of its segment is the power train. Camry operates on Toyota’s popular “Hybrid Synergy Drive” technology which utilizes electric motor in combination of a traditional petrol motor (depending upon requirement) to turn the wheels in motion. The Petrol engine is a four cylinder, 2494 CC, 16 valve DOHC that churns out 160 PS @ 5700 RPM (total 205 PS with Hybrid) and 213 Nm torque @ 4500 RPM, coupled with electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT). Just tap the “Power” button and it’s next to impossible to tell from the interiors whether the car has actually turned on or not. Press the accelerator gently to sense and that very moment you begin to realize that this piece of machine is no ordinary.

Shift the transmission to “Drive” mode and Camry will never fail to mesmerize its occupants with absolute tranquility. This happens because of the fact that upon starting and low-speed driving, it’s driven solely by the electric motor. This electric motor automatically charges when engine is idle except when the car is in neutral. On normal speeds, petrol engine is predominantly used but ECU monitors driving condition and intelligently controls electric motor as well as petrol motor power output in an effort to maintain optimum fuel efficiency. But if you believe that Camry Hybrid is only for the chauffeur driven folks, it’s time for a second thought. All you have to do is hit hard on the gas pedal and you'll be taken aback by a seat hugging experience. The acceleration is not necessarily instant but when it does, the thrust is so addictive in “power” range that it’ll leave the enthusiasts yearning for more.

And the best part is you won’t have to worry too much about fuel economy either which is best in segment (19.16 Kmpl ARAI claimed). During peak acceleration, battery supplies electricity to drive the motor, thereby further enhancing the power output. However, while driving downward on slopes or braking, the motor is activated as a generator to convert kinetic energy into electricity and thus, charges the battery. This process is known as regenerative braking. On the other hand, when idle (such as on traffic signals), the engine cuts off to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions which is 122.8 gm of CO2 per kilometer. BTW the EV icon on instrument cluster lights up every time the car is running on electric motor only. There’s also a built-in emergency shut-off system as a useful safety precaution that immediately cuts off the high voltage current and fuel pump to minimize the risk of electrocution and fuel leakage.


Instead of a conventional tachometer, Camry Hybrid has a “Hybrid System” indicator which functions in a similar fashion as a tachometer. It’s marked by zones. i.e: Charge (when regenerative charging is active), Hybrid Eco (when the petrol motor isn’t being used often), Eco (when the car is driven in an eco-friendly manner) and Power (high-range to tap maximum power). In total, there are three driving modes to enjoy varied performance of Camry Hybrid: EV Mode, Eco Mode and Eco Mode Off. In EV mode, the car sedately runs on the electric motor alone. It’s ideal to use when driving at average speeds in residential areas or parking lots without worrying about noise and gas emissions. This mode cannot be activated if the temperature of hybrid system is too hot / cold or right after the car was left in sun, driven at high speed or on a hill. Possible driving distance of EV mode ranges anywhere from a few hundred meters to 2 Kms. It cancels when driven at high speed.

Eco mode, on the flip side, uses a combination of electric motor and petrol engine to deliver pleasing fuel efficiency figures. Therefore, it makes sense to drive Camry in this mode for the maximum possible time. When switched off, Camry delightfully transforms itself into a meaner avatar with amazing torque delivery and drivability. The occupants will evidently find ride quality on the stiffer side (thanks to additional battery weight) but that said; it does capably runs over all sorts of potholes assisting which is a decent 160 mm ground clearance. Handling is reasonably good for a car of this size with extremely well-controlled high speed body roll. You’ll find steering wheel feather-light when idle and it perfectly weighs up as the speed sours. Overall braking is crisp and confidence inspiring, supported by all-four disc brakes as well as regenerative braking function along with ABS + EBD as standard.

Toyota has thrown oodles of safety features that make Camry Hybrid an absolutely complete package. Some of the major ones include: 7 airbags (front two, front side, curtain, driver knee), ABS with EBD, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Hill Start Assist, Electronically Controlled Braking system, impact sensing fuel cut-off etc. Hybrid and EV sector in India is still in its baby shoes but going by the willingness of such automakers and rapid advancement coupled with cooperation from local government is greatly helping to make such technologies affordable. Toyota Camry Hybrid enjoys the benefit of Rs.70,000 rebate under the FAME-India scheme, as a result, bringing its price to Rs.36 Lakh (on-road, Delhi). Obviously it’s still not inexpensive and a fat three lakh rupees costlier than the Petrol-only counterpart. Strictly speaking, if a full sized luxury saloon is what you’re looking for regardless of the snob-value; Camry Hybrid is a sensible long-term investment.

 
Thread Starter #5

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Likes, Dislikes and Star Ratings

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You'll Love: [thumbsup]
  • A well-rounded overall package, albeit at a price.
  • Plush and supremely comfortable interiors with loads of goodies.
  • Extremely fuel efficient Hybrid motor will be forever easy on your wallet.
  • Nimble to maneuver in cities. Delightful performance won’t let you down either.
  • Toyota has a relatively wide aftersales network in India compared to the German trio.
You'll Loathe: [thumbsdown]
  • Ride quality is rather stiff (but manageable).
  • Lacks the snob value of a Mercedes-Benz, BMW or an Audi.
  • Hybrid is noticeably expensive by Rs.3 lakh than Petrol counterpart.
  • Chic design at times attracts just too much unnecessary attention.
  • Difficult to find parking spots for a car of this size in a city like Delhi.
Toyota Camry Hybrid Star Ratings:
  • Design and Quality................:
    9.5.gif
  • Comfort and Features............:
    ninestar.gif
  • Engine and Performance.........:
    ninestar.gif
  • Handling and Ride Quality.......:
    ninestar.gif
  • Safety and Security Levels.....:
    ninestar.gif
  • Overall Fuel Consumption.......:
    tenstar.gif
  • Sales and Service Network.....:
    ninestar.gif
  • Value For Money Factor.........:
    eightstar.gif
  • The Automotive India's Verdict:
    ninestar.gif
Here's how to interpret above ratings: The Automotive India Reviews Star Ratings Explained.


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Thread Starter #6

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Price and Miscellaneous Points

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Toyota Camry Hybrid Price (Ex.showroom, Delhi):
  • Petrol: Rs.28,80,000
  • Hybrid: Rs.31,92,000
Miscellaneous Points:
  • Presently in eleventh generation, Camry brand was first introduced to the world in 1982.
  • The car reviewed (codename XV50) globally launched last year at New York Auto Show.
  • Toyota Camry is also retailed under the badge-engineered avatar of Daihatsu Altis in Japan.
  • Previous generation model was the first one to be available with Hybrid drivetrain. It debuted in Jan 2006.
  • Dubbed as the "big minor change", according to Toyota, 2,000+ new parts have gone into improving this latest model.
Service and Warranty:
  • Toyota Camry service interval is every 10,000 kilometers.
  • The car comes with a 3 Year / 1 Lakh kilometers standard warranty in India.
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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Specifications, Comparison and Brochure

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Toyota Camry Hybrid Specifications

Petrol Motor:
  • Engine: 2494 CC, 4 Cylinders, DOHC
  • Power: 160 PS @ 5700 RPM
  • Torque: 213 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Electric Motor:
  • Type: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
  • Max Voltage: 650 V
  • Max Output: 143 PS
  • Max Torque: 270 Nm
  • Hybrid System Total Output: 205 PS
General Specifications:
  • Transmission: E-CVT
  • Fuel Efficiency (ARAI Claimed): 19.16 Kmpl
  • Front Brakes: Discs
  • Rear Brakes: Discs
  • Front Suspension: McPherson Strut with Stabilizer Bar
  • Rear Suspension: Dual Link with Stabilizer Bar
  • Fuel Tank: 65 Liters
  • Length: 4850 mm
  • Width: 1825 mm
  • Height: 1480 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2775 mm
  • Tyre Size: 215/55 R17
  • Turning Radius: 5.5 M
  • Ground Clearance: 160 mm
  • Kerb Weight: 1635 Kgs
Toyota Camry Hybrid Exterior Colors:
  • Grey Metallic
  • Silver Metallic
  • Attitude Black*
  • True Blue Mica Metallic*
  • White Pearl Crystal Shine*
  • Greyish Blue Mica Metallic
  • Dark Brown Mica Metallic*
Asterisk (*) denotes our preferred color options.
 

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Thread Starter #8

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Video Review

Toyota Camry Hybrid Engine NVH

Toyota Camry Hybrid High Speed NVH

Toyota Camry Hybrid Idle NVH

Toyota Camry Hybrid Power Rear Sunblind
 
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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Pictorial Review

Face is totally revamped. New trapezoidal grille is sporty.



Foglamps neatly blended inside the grille.



Smart rain-sensing automatic wipers.



Long and sleek hood now has a power dome.



Engine bay area is well-insulated.



Electric Hybrid Motor.



Bright daytime running lamps make Camry a showstopper.



Lexus-like dual projector headlamps.

 
Thread Starter #10

350Z

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Pictorial Review

This saloon runs on large 17" Yokohamas.



Samurai-sword like front indicators.



Hybrid badge alone makes the Camry stand out from rest.



Outside rear view mirrors are wide and practical.



Keyless entry feature is absolutely convenient.



Large windows add to the roominess. Their rubber seals have been revised to improve NVH.



Fine attention to detail. Defrost wires spread out to stop lamp too.



The boot is fully insulated as well.



Hybrid pack eats up a considerable boot space.



Hybrid motor battery when uncovered.

 
Thread Starter #11

350Z

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Pictorial Review

Shopping bag hooks inside the boot.



Only two parking sensors on rear (camera does rest of the job).



Taillamps assembly slightly revised. Notice the bluish tinge.



Toyota has generously used chrome everywhere.



These badges signify you care about the environment.



All four doors open completely wide to offer a convenient ingress and egress.





Trendy door sills.



Low Beam



High Beam

 
Thread Starter #12

350Z

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Pictorial Review

Interiors slightly revised over the previous model but all changes are welcome.



Steering mounted buttons. Left: Audio system controls. Right: MID function controls.



Beautiful new instrument cluster looks futuristic.



Small joystick to electrically adjust the steering wheel.



Small cruise control stalk peeks out from behind the steering wheel.



Power button replaces the traditional "Start-Stop" on Camry.



Leather-stitched dashboard is made of very high quality.



Parking sensor button (on extreme right) to manually disable front and rear parking sensor buzzer.



Slim a
ccelerator pedal. Absence of clutch means your left foot can relax.




Do not lean against the door since it's equipped with side airbags.



Multi-function dual DIN headunit shows up information about the hybrid motor, audio system, in-car settings and reverse camera.



A view of the parking camera.

 
Thread Starter #13

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Pictorial Review

Pull this panel to reveal the VIN.



These buttons control ventilation for the front seats.



Glovebox is huge and lockable (though illuminates only if parking lamps are on).



Four roof lamps more than sufficiently bright up the entire car.



Easy access switch to adjust passenger seat from driver's side.



Beige interior means they're prone to quickly get soiled. Like this.



Eight-way adjustable driver as well as passenger seats.



Long front leather-armrest is slidable.



It's deep enough to easily accommodate most of your daily stuff.



Dedicated space and charging slot for your iPod.



Twist this small knob to unlock the floor mat.

 
Thread Starter #14

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Pictorial Review

Good move: Toyota Camry now offers 7 airbags as standard.



Manual sunblinds for rear passengers useful.



You truly sit like a king on this large, majestic rear seat.



Big and soft-touch grab handles. You wouldn't really need them though.



Sunblind automatically goes down when the reverse gear is engaged. It pops up back when you're done.



Do not cover these vents. They provide the much needed ventilation to Hybrid motor.



Dual bottle holders on each rear pocket.



Massive rear armrest serves as a (stiff) back rest for the fifth passenger when folded.



Dual cupholders gracefully pops out.



You have all the necessary controls in command even seated at rear.

 
Thread Starter #15

350Z

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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Pictorial Review

Even more storage space: rear center armrest gulps a 600ml bottle.



Transmission tunnel is not a hindrance for the fifth passenger....



....but the protruding air-con console could be.



Rear occupants receive a couple of ashtrays too.




Rear-seat air-con vents to cool your feet.



Minimum rear legroom



Maximum rear legroom



Cool ambiance lighting adds to the charm at night.





New keyfob looks more upmarket. Built-in manual key can be taken out should the need arise.



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