Toyota Camry

A product of meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design philosophy, the eighth-generation Camry hybrid is visually striking. Drawing certain inspirations from Lexus, Toyota’s luxury arm, the Camry showcases a dominant front grille which is quite different when compared to the Lexus ES. LED headlamps coupled with the LED DRLs carve a signature aesthetic. With sleek curves gracefully flowing along the sides and sculpted lines on the hood, the Camry doesn’t shy away from flaunting its newfound muscular stance.

Continuing the design narrative, the rear mirrors the cohesion seen at the front. Slim tail lamps and subtle design elements encapsulate the modern ethos Toyota intended for the new Camry. The distinct blue hue on the Toyota badges subtly yet confidently signals the hybrid nature of the vehicle.

Step inside, and the Camry hybrid welcomes you with a harmonious blend of style and function. The dashboard follows a ‘Y’ design pattern, symbolizing the convergence of elegance and ergonomics according to Toyota. From the cockpit-inspired driver’s view to a modern 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, it seems every element is crafted keeping the driver at the core. One of the standout changes in the new Camry is the compact steering wheel, shedding its previous wooden element and opting for a sportier appeal. The vast glass expanses ensure a spacious ambiance, making the cabin feel expansive and luxurious. Superior fit and finish further accentuate the car’s premium stature.

Modern tech features, including onboard navigation and Bluetooth connectivity, promise a connected drive. While Toyota’s omission of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto might raise eyebrows, the inclusion of wireless charging and a futuristic 10-inch heads-up display somewhat compensates. The rear too isn’t left behind in this luxury expedition. A tri-zone climate control with reclining rear seats, touch controls on the armrest, and dual USB ports blend luxury with practicality, catering to your most needs.

Safety, a cornerstone of Toyota’s reputation, shines brightly in the Camry hybrid. Bridging traditional passive safety features with advanced driver assistance systems, the Camry comes across as a protective cocoon on wheels. The car comes equipped with ten airbags, while the Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection not only identifies potential collisions but takes proactive measures to prevent them. 
The Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist acts as a vigilant co-passenger, ensuring the vehicle remains within its designated path. Apart from this you also get enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System, and more to assure optimum control in varied driving scenarios. The Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert augments the driver’s awareness, offering an extra set of eyes on the road. And to ensure night-time driving is equally secure, the Adaptive Full-range High-beam system illuminates the way without dazzling oncoming traffic.

The heart of the Camry hybrid, its engine, is a marriage of vigor and efficiency. Powered by a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, it dishes out an impressive combined output. The seamless synergy between the gasoline engine and the electric motor ensures instantaneous power delivery, propelling the sedan from a standstill to highway speeds with refined alacrity. The e-CVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission) optimizes gear ratios, ensuring the perfect balance between fuel efficiency and performance. 
Toyota’s pursuit of eco-friendly performance is further underlined by the EV mode. This allows the car to run solely on electric power under specific conditions, minimizing emissions. Despite its eco-conscious core, there’s no compromise on thrill; Sport Mode guarantees spirited driving dynamics for those moments when the driver desires a little extra zest.

Navigating the balance between comfort and dynamics, the Toyota Camry hybrid’s ride and handling characteristics are a testament to the brand’s engineering prowess. The newly adopted TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) underpins the car, lowering the center of gravity and enhancing chassis rigidity. This results in a ride quality that absorbs undulations with finesse while ensuring body roll is kept at bay.
The suspension system, a blend of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, delivers plush comfort without compromising on agility. Steering feedback is precise, giving the driver confidence to carve corners with enthusiasm. Whether it’s cruising on the highway or navigating city confines, the Camry hybrid ensures a ride experience that’s both exhilarating and serene.

In the realm of luxury hybrid sedans, the Toyota Camry’s pricing strategy embodies a harmonious blend of value and opulence. Given the wealth of features, advanced hybrid technology, and the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality and reliability, the price tag feels justified. Initial investments might seem steeper compared to conventional counterparts, but the Camry promises returns in the form of fuel savings, reduced carbon footprints, and a long-lasting vehicle life.

Also, check out our in-depth Review: 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid Review.