Toyota Camry 2006 Review

The reasons are more psychological than factual because Camry is only marginally more fuel efficient than the new Commodore - but it's a four cylinder.

Downsizing to fours is already happening -driven by rocketing fuel prices and more discerning buyers who do not equate size with quality or value for money.

Toyota is hedging its bets with the forth- coming Aurion V6 competing with other local sixes.

A V6 Camry would quickly materialise if Aurion doesn't fire to Toyota's satisfaction.

This is the sixth generation Camry which first appeared here as an import back in 1983. Local production commenced in 1987. It's a global car developed by "virtual assembly" and is produced in about half a dozen locations but is neither made nor sold in Europe.

Toyota is aiming up with this model shooting directly at Honda Accord Euro, Mazda6 and Subaru Liberty.

Camry has a leg-up with the new chassis and body along with a revised 2.4-litre, four cylinder engine with variable valve timing. But it's at a power disadvantage which could cost sales. Maximum output is 117kW/218Nm.

Transmissions are a five speed manual and five speed auto.

Though staying true to the "Camry" family sedan formula, the new model is a sexy looking beast and should attract a wider audience including younger buyers and those looking for affordable prestige.

Featuring Toyota styling DNA, elements of the Lexus IS250 and Toyota Yaris sedan are clearly evident but it's a much bigger, more "masculine" car than either.

Only marginally longer than the previous model, new Camry has a longer wheelbase, wider track and considerably more interior room.

The boot is also large and contains a full size spare.

Toyota can make up to 140,000 Camrys a year at its Altona plant many of these for export.

The body is made on a new press which forms the whole side of the car in one piece.

New technology has been developed for the welding process.

The strong chassis can cope with a 1200kg towing load but overall weight is up by 40-50kg.

Along with the sleek sheetmetal came a slick interior that is airy, functional and modern. Toyota has specified multiple tones to lift the look inside.

Plenty of local input has gone into Camry including additional engine and transmission cooling, dust sealing and ride/handling calibration.

It's safer, stronger and more practical.

Four models are offered: Altise, Ateva, Sportivo and Grande in ascending order. Ateva and Grande are auto only.

In the three and a half year development phase, great efforts were made to cut noise and vibration and to improve dynamics.

All models have more features than ever with dual air bags, air conditioning, cruise control, power ancillaries, steering wheel audio controls and auto headlights standard across the range which starts at $28,000 for the Altise manual.

Grande at the other end of the scale scores leather, satnav, Bluetooth, rain sensing wipers, sunroof, and old-school woodgrain.

The engine is similar to that used in RAV4 but has lower output due to Euro 4 emissions compliance.

Fuel economy is rated at 9.9-litres/100km for the auto, 8.9 for the manual.

It is compromised a little by Camry's beefy 1415-1480kgs.

On the road the car impresses with excellent dynamics and a comfy ride. The engine is silent at idle and only becomes vocal when pressed.

Performance is best described as adequate but power is used to good effect in the new automatic. However, the selector gate in manual mode on the new auto is a pain.

It steers precisely and has good grip in tight turns.

The Sportivo is a step up in all areas.

Camry looks impressive on the road and is fun to drive.

A good looking, well specified, affordable driver's Camry?

More than any Camry before and definitely a move in the right direction.