Looks
The Toyota Camry Hybrid is given very little visual differentiation from its more mundane siblings. PHOTO: TOYOTA
- The Toyota Camry Hybrid looks pretty similar to the the normal variants of Singapore's most popular executive car. It is a handsome looking car nonetheless and its design has aged well.
Hybrid badges mark it out as the Camry that is gentler on the environment. PHOTO: TOYOTA
- With the exception of a new front grille and bumper, a handful of hybrid badges and clear tail lamps there is little that gives its status away as the eco-friendly Camry.
Performance
- Acceleration is pretty instantaneous given that there is an electric motor assisting the petrol one.
- The Camry Hybrid's refinement is top notch and is near Lexus-levels in terms with its smooth engine and quiet interior.
- Fuel economy is good for a car running a 2.4-litre petrol engine and this is taking into consideration the weight gain the battery pack and electric motor bring about.
- During the period when the Camry Hybrid was reviewed, it averaged between 11-12km/l which is around the consumption of a normal 1.6-litre car. But this figure is far from the 13.9km/l quoted by Toyota.
Ride and Handling
- The Camry Hybrid drives exactly like one would expect from a car targetting the SME towkays and middle management executives. It does not set the pulse racing by offering a spirited drive but rather is comfort-oriented with a soft, cosseting ride.
- It handles neatly with well-controlled body roll and none of the wallow associated with cars that have plush rides.
- The steering is light and offers little to no feedback.
Comfort, Practicality and Quality
The Camry's interior is almost Lexus-like in terms of its quality and finish. PHOTO: TOYOTA
- The cabin is well-built and the materials used are nicely textured.
- It is extremely roomy and space in the back is very good.
- The boot is a little cramped due to the battery pack taking up considerable space but will fit a set of golf clubs at with pinch.
Verdict
With high fuel prices and global warming becoming an almost everyday concern, the Camry Hybrid provides an entry into the world of eco-friendly cars for towkays who would overlook the smaller rides such as the Prius and Honda Civic but are also unwilling to stump up the extra outlay for the hybrids from Lexus.
Plus
- Effortless to drive
- Silent on the move
- Fuel economy of a 1.6-litre car
Minus
- Costs a whopping $21,000 more than the 2.4-litre variant
- Navigation system is fiddly to use
- Not much differentiation from normal variants in terms of looks
Specifications
Engine: 2,362cc, 16-valves, inline-4
Max Power: 203bhp at 6,000rpm
Max Torque: 187Nm at 4,400rpm
Gearbox: CVT
0-100kmh: 9.0 seconds
Top Speed: 162km/h
Consumption: 13.9km/L (combined)