2012 Toyota Camry Reviews

Four fours and a six but no more five. That's how the numbers stack up in Toyota's quicker, quieter and more entertaining Camry.The seventh generation of Australia's most popular four-cylinder medium/large car comes in four versions, all with a six-speed automatic transmission replacing the previous five-speed automatic and five-speed manual.SAFETYAll models get seven airbags, stability and traction control, a stronger body, larger and more supportive front seats, a more inviting driving position and an expected five-star safety rating.VALUEA little more confusing is the name change for all but the entry level Altise, which remains at $30,490. The Atara S, at $33,490, replaces the previous Ateva ($32,990), the Atara SX, at $35,990, replaces the Sportivo ($33,990), and the Atara SL, at $39,990, is the same price as the Grande it replaces. The Atara S and SX get more equipment than their predecessors to offset the price rises.DESIGNStyling remains conservative and similar in silhouette, but with smoother lines and more impressive proportions. Overall, length is similar but the new model's interior is bigger, especially in the rear, where knee room improves by 46mm. Boot space remains generous, and all models come with a full-size spare wheel -- steel on the Altise and alloy on the others.ENGINEThe 2.5-litre four cylinder engine replaces the previous 2.4-litre engine (117kW and 218Nm) and comes in two states of tune -- 133kW and 231Nm in the Altise and 135kW and 235Nm in the Atara. When mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission, the engine delivers sharper response and improved fuel economy -- now a best of 7.8l/100km, compared to 8.8 litres/100km previously. Some of this gain comes from taller gearing, which has the six-speed auto cruising at about 1800rpm at 100km/h, or about 200rpm less than the five-speed 2.4.TECHNOLOGYEquipment on the Altise includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a trip computer, Bluetooth and an upgraded sound system with six speakers and controls on the steering wheel. An “Eco'' light on the dash flicks on and off according to throttle setting.Atara S adds fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and engine start/stop, a reversing camera, dual-zone airconditioning, paddle shifts, dual exhausts, a 152mm touch-screen display audio and an electric driver's seat with lumbar support.The Atara SX adds sports suspension, alloy pedals, a boot lip spoiler and leather accentuated trim. The Atara SL also gets premium audio with 10 speakers, a 175mm touch-screen display with satellite navigation, digital radio, live traffic updates, a reversing camera, blind-spot monitor, automatic high beam, electric front seats and rain-sensing wipers.DRIVEFirst impressions are how smooth and quiet it is, how roomy and comfortable, how upmarket the trim looks and feels on the dash and how easy it is to drive, foot-operated park brake aside.The extra punch from the new 2.5-litre engine and six-speed auto is immediately evident, as is the sharpness in the new electric power steering and the tautness in the suspension, all adding up to a more involving and entertaining driving experience.The broader spread of gearing and a 35kg shaving in weight -- through the use of lightweight higher-strength steel -- has trimmed 0.2 seconds off the 0-100km/h sprint. It is now down to 9.8 seconds. The transmission has a sequential shift slot -- push forward for up and pull back for down -- and blips the throttle on down changes.Ride and handling are impressive. The suspension is a little firmer and feels more disciplined on the open road. But there is some lumpiness over bumps around town and some tyre noise on coarse chip surfaces.VERDICTAbove all, it feels durable, reliable and well built.

Living with a hybrid isn't like sharing your life with a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. It's more like the Olsen twins - amusing, predictable, benign and needing very little in the way of sustenance.In fact, Toyota's Camry Hybrid is so easy to live with you'd wonder why people buy the petrol version.Unlike the Prius, the Camry Hybrid doesn't throw technological curve balls at the owner and demand some new skills to operate.Driving it is just pressing the start button and selecting gear - no funny gearshifter, no weirdo dashboard and no verbal fallout from passing motorists.Making hybrids affordable is the trick to increasing sales. Toyota has launched the Prius C - a ripper hatchback at $23,990 - and now upgrades the new and improved Aussie-built Camry Hybrid.Prices start at $34,990 - down $2000 on the old model - but the $41,490 Luxury version tested here rises $1500 but gets $4500 more equipment.The base H has excellent equipment levels but the Luxury adds stuff usually reserved for exxy Euro cars - blind spot monitor, auto high beam and sonar parking among the features.It uses one-third less fuel than the petrol Camry and costs $130 for each of the five services for the first four years or 75,000km. Beat that!If I see one more "cardigan'' tag applied to this car I will, seriously, puke. Those critics would go ga-ga if the Toyota badge was replaced with the BMW roundel.The new car is well proportioned and attractive - difficult design lines to master in a large car - and matches external subtlty with a spacious and efficient cabin that is simple and elegant.The Luxury gets leather and lots of electronic fruit but it's subtle there's no design overkill. The Hybrid boot is smaller than the petrol Camry but there's sufficient room for holiday luggage while the load-through hatch makes it a more flexible hauler than before.The Toyota Hybrids have an engine and two side-by-side electric motors. They work together or separate depending on demand.Though the driver can specify electric-only mode (which only goes for about 2km), there's no choice - or need - to switch to all-engine power. The engine is the same capacity as the petrol Camry but uses different combustion timing that better suits its hook-up with the electric motor.All power goes through a CVT automatic. There's brake regeneration - one electric motor acts as a generator when the car is coasting or braking and the energy goes back into the storage batteries.The petrol engine has no belts to drive ancilliaries - the water pump, airconditioner and power steering are driven by electric motors. All up, the car weighs 45kg less than before. And for the first time, the Camry Hybrid can tow - though only up to 300kg.Camry Hybrid picks up the safety features of the petrol Camry, with a five-star crash rating and seven airbags.The package also includes stability and traction control, ABS brakes with brake assist, hill-start assist, seatbelt warnings for the five seats and a reversing camera with the image on a 150mm touch-screen.The Luxury adds blind spot monitors in each mirror and automatic high beam. The spare is full-size.As I indicate, there's no special training needed for punting one of these. It's a Camry with the only initial offputting feature being the way it drives off silently on its electric motor. Toyota Australia has put a lot of work into the suspension, retuning it to improve handling.It now drives as well as any of its six-cylinder, rear drive competitors and, probably thanks to the extra weight in the rear courtesy of the batteries, feels a bit better planted than the petrol Camry.It is very comfortable, both in suspension suppleness and in the softer seats, and makes long distances quite enjoyable.I don't like the foot-operated park brake - it attacks my shin when I get in the car and is more difficult to gauge than a hand-operated lever - and question why the Camry should be so big.Seriously, all the technology would be even greater in a Corolla. But that's all I can complain about.

Toyota's perennial Camry has been the best selling medium sized car in Australia for 18 straight years. But like other Toyotas it has come under increasing pressure, particularly the Koreans who have delivered some outstanding competition in the past year or so. Toyota has tried to get back to basics with the new, seventh generation Camry.The emphasis is on quality, reliability and durability, not to mention an effort to make the car more fun to drive. It goes on sale this month but you'll have to wait until early next year for a new hybrid, petrol-electric version.ENGINEThe 2.4 has been replaced by a larger, mor powerful 2.5-litre four cylinder petrol engine with 0-100km/h taking 9.3 seconds. It's technically more advanced with dual VVTi but still misses out on the benefits of direct injection.Power is up 13 per cent to 133kW and torque has increased by six per cent to 231Nm in the Altise, with slightly more output in Atara models which feature a free-flowing dual exhaust system.ECONOMYDespite the power increase new Camry uses less fuel, down 11 per cent to from 8.9 to 7.8 litres/100km. We saw between 9.1 and 10.8 litres/100km during the launch. Engine emissions have been reduced 25g to 183g/km.CHANGESIt's the same physical size but weighs 35kg less. The line up consists of four models starting with the Altise followed by the Atara S, Atara SX and Atara SL. Altise looks different from the other three, with a different grille and apron and is targeted at the price conscious fleet market.The more expensive Atara models feature a mesh grille and three-piece apron and are aimed at the private buyer. S replaces Ateva, SX replaces Sportivo and SL replaces top of the line Grande.There's no manual and the five-speed auto has been replaced by a six-speed with steering wheel mounted shift paddles in higher grade models. Steering is now all electric, with a firmer, heavier feel that stays centred without the need for constant driver input. It also adds weight in corners to help prevent over correction. The traditional handbrake has been replaced with a foot operated brake.NEW STUFFThe top of the line model comes with high beam that dips the lights automatically. It is also equipped with a blind spot warning system and adds a DAB+ digital radio.SAFETYHasn't been crashed tested yet but has been designed to receive five stars. Comes with seven airbags including a driver knee bag and full complement of safety aids. A reversing camera remains a $500 option on the entry Altise - standard with the rest.HOW MUCH?You get all this for the same starting price of $30,490, with a four year-warranty that includes fixed price servicing at $130 a pop for five services. Atara S is $33,490, Atara SX is $35,990 and Atara SL is $39,990.THE DRIVEIt has a solid, big car feel. Nice and smooth and quiet. Sits nicely on the road and corners flat with plenty of grip. Local suspension tuning and the recalibrated steering have been designed to produce a more engaging drive.Drop a wheel in the dirt and the stability system quickly sorts it out. Conversation is easy even on coarse bitumen and the car we drove had adjustable lumbar support. Both the i45/Optima and Accord Euro deliver more power, but 133kW is more than adequate for the job, especially in combo with the smooth-changing six-speed tranny. There's a 15mm bigger gap between seats and rear passengers benefit from 46mm more legroom.

This latest incarnation of petrol-electric technology from Toyota, the new model Camry Hybrid, is a drivers' car that gives away little to petrol or diesel powered cars.It delivers performance, comfort, ride and handling at least the equal of rivals and may well prove to be a hybrid game-changer for Toyota. Toyota also addressed other concerns with the Hybrid including enlarging the boot and giving the car light towing ability.VALUEToyota has reduced the price of Camry Hybrid to $34,990. That is $2000 under the old model. Toyota calculates that if the hybrid used a third less fuel than the petrol Camry fuelled on unleaded petrol at $1.50 a litre and driving 20,000 km a year over three years - the fuel saving would be $2340.This figure places Camry Hybrid within the same financial ball park as the regular Camry petrol powered sibling. The upmarket HL variant has an RRP of $41,990 which is a $1500 increase, but Toyota says this includes $4500 in equipment gains over the current model.What you may now see on the Camry Hybrid is a tow bar. The current Camry Hybrid has no tow rating, a major negative for some Australian buyers. This new generation has been rated at a modest 300 kg tow rate, enough to get the tinny to the boat ramp and a trailer to the tip. Forget towing a van around Australia. The conventional Toyota Camry has a tow rating of 1300 kg. Camry Hybrid features the same classy interior Toyota introduced with the new seventh-generation petrol models. There is now a driver's knee airbag, taking the SRS airbag count to seven.Both models have a power operated driver's seat with lumbar adjustment and the HL also gets power controls for the passenger seat. Camry Hybrid HL has automatic dipping high beam and a 10-speaker premium audio system including CD/DVD player and live traffic updates along with digital radio.Camry interior is particularly spacious for both front and rear seat passengers. Boot space has been increased by 8 per cent to 421 litres as a result of the hybrid battery being moved slightly forward. There is a large ski hatch allowing for long items to be placed in the boot.Camry Hybrid gets all the same safety gear as the petrol model: Vehicle Stability Control, traction control, ABS brakes, brake assist, reverse camera and a 5-star ANCAP rating.In 2010 Toyota sold 6833 Camry Hybrids (which were then called Hybrid Camrys, not Camry Hybrids - ah, the joys of marketing!) and in 2011 sales were 5204. It's wish list is to hit 10,000 units per annum. This new model may just help it achieve that.TECHNOLOGYAt the heart of the Camry Hybrid is a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and high torque electric motor. This engine replaces the previous 2.4-litre engine and puts out up to 118 kW. Peak torque is 213 Nm at 4500 rpm.When combined with the electric motor, power is rated at 151 kW. The electric motor puts out 105 kW of power and 270 Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission. It is a potent, yet seamless, combination.Toyota Hybrid now has an EV button which, if the battery has sufficient charge, allows the Camry to be all-electric for up to two kilometres. Toyota has also done away with belt drives from the engine for the water pump, air-conditioning and power steering. These are all now driven electrically.DESIGNThere are a few exterior changes to Camry Hybrid when stood alongside petrol Camry. The radiator grille is different with a chrome upper section and a 'hybrid blue' Toyota badge framed by headlights set off by blue accented extensions. The rear end also boasts a hybrid blue Toyota badge and the HL grade gets a boot spoiler and chrome garnish.DRIVINGFor those doubting hybrid performance there is one statistic that stands out: 0 to 100 km/h in eight seconds flat. That sees Camry Hybrid finishing 1.3 seconds ahead of its sibling rival, Camry petrol thanks to the immediate delivery of bulk electric torque off the line.Straight line speed is only part of the story. The Hybrid took to the Targa Tasmania roads with a great deal of delight. This new Hybrid corners flat and fast with no sign of body roll or understeer. The car has superb acceleration particularly in the critical passing range between 80 and 120 km/h.Despite our enthusiastic drive program, by the time we had looped almost 300 kilometres between Launceston-Bridport Beaconsfield-Launceston the computer readout revealed we were using just 7.3 litres/100 km. The official combined consumption is much lower at 5.2 litres per 100 km (down by 13 per cent on the superseded model).The steering feels lighter than in the superseded model but still offers good driver feedback. Toyota believes its new Camry Hybrid will cement hybrid cars as being part of the norm. After several hours at the wheel in a variety of road conditions we can see why.It simply drives like a `normal' car apart from having more grunt. It even looks like normal car, except for the subtle blue badges (Blue is the new Green with car makers).

Three months ago Toyota boss Akio Toyoda promised to put the fun factor back into Toyotas and the latest Camry Hybrid has fulfilled that promise.It's a ripper, with a whopping 151kW under its bonnet, tuned suspension, top economy, extra features, improved safety and refinement  all at a lower price.The Australian-built sedan is also the first hybrid to boast towing ability, its battery will last the life of the vehicle and it has a bigger boot and interior.PRICES AND EQUIPMENTCamry Hybrid comes in two hi-spec' models, the H (for hybrid) and HL (luxury), and can be identified by a chromed grille with a blue-ringed badge, blue accents on the headlights and unique alloy wheels. Prices start at $34,990, which is $2000 cheaper than last year's model.Both cars feature the clear three-dial Optitron dash panel, with a six-speaker audio system and a 6.1-inch touch-screen display, an eco driving indicator, dual-zone auto climate control aircon, smart entry wireless door lock, smart start, acoustic windscreen and a reverng camera.A hybrid system indicator in the multi-info display shows energy flow and cruising range. The classy finishing touches include brushed silver inserts and switches, attractive stitching and soft-touch padding Spacewise, repositioning of the battery has freed up more space in the boot, which will now hold 421 litres, up from 389. And new seat design and door trims have given greater comfort and extra space in the back.TECHNOLOGYBoth cars have a new belt-free Atkinson-cycle 2.5-litre petrol engine, a tad up on the earlier 2.4. It produces 118kW and 213Nm and is backed by a 105kW/270Nm 650 volt electric motor. The combined effect is 151kW with an undisclosed, but substantial, torque figure. The 2.4's combined power was 140kW.Electric motors now power all previously belt-driven components and there are subtle aerodynamic improvements that help the car achieve a very impressive 0.27 drag factor. Paired with the CVT, fuel use is down to an average 5.2 litres/100km which is better than most diesel rivals.The car also has a new EV Drive system, which lets it run on electric power alone for a couple of kilometres up to about 45km/h. Handy for coming up the driveway after midnight. The suspension has been given a thorough going-over by Toyota Technical Centre and the car now has a flat ride, more comfort and stability and excellent road manners.THE DRIVEIf ever there was a Camry to shed its 'whitegoods' image, it's the new Hybrid. It's the new flagship of the range and the sportiest. It quietly zooms to 100km/h in 8.0 seconds, about a second quicker than the outgoing model, and has the handling qualities of a sports saloon.We swished through the winding terrain of Tasmania's Tamar Valley with aplomb and marvelled at the car's agility, a word not normally attributed to a Camry. The electro steering was a tad light, but gave good feedback and increased body rigidity and the use of low rolling resistance tyres added to the handling benefits.The car's finish has also been lifted, with shutlines of 3 to 3.5mm, as opposed to the previous 5mm, making it comparable to a Lexus in that regard. It's also commendably quiet inside, thanks to the acoustic glass windscreen and other noise-absorbing materials.

There are two big surprises in the new locally made Camry Hybrid. The petrol-electric car is not only more economical than the conventionally petrol-powered Camry, but also sportier with more power and better handling.VALUEThe other big surprise is that the price premium over the standard Camry has come crashing down about $6500 (compared with the Altise $30,490) to $4500. Toyota sales and marketing director Matthew Callachor said Camry Hybrid sales had dropped last year from 6400 to 5300 because of supply disruptions but he is confident that in a full year they could sell as many as 10,000. "Price is no longer a barrier to the success of Camry Hybrid," says Callachor.The H model is down $2000 or 5.4 per cent and has $2000 worth of features above the Altise, including smart entry and start, dual-zone air-conditioning and a large-screen display audio with reverse camera, plus metallic paint (currently $400) is now free. The HL is now $41,490, down $3000 or 6.7 per cent, yet has about $3000 worth of extra features than the current model including larger touch-screen display, satellite navigation with live traffic updates, digital radio, front fog lamps, a rear lip spoiler, leather trim, power front passenger seat, rear sunshade, blind spot monitor and automatic high beam.Adding to the value of the Camry Hybrid is the extended $130 capped price servicing deal which has been extended from four to five service, from three to four years and from 60,000km to 75,000km. The servicing price is also the same as the Camry petrol model.Toyota product planning corporate manager Greg Gardner says they will also offer special commercial discounts and expects fleet sales to account for half of all their Camry Hybrid business.Compared with the current model, Camry HL adds a 10-speaker JBL audio system with a seven-inch touch-screen display, satellite navigation with live traffic updates, digital radio, 17-inch alloy wheels, an electric rear sunshade, exterior mirrors that dip when reversing and memory settings for the electric driver's seat. Options include a moon roof, rear spoiler and tow bar. TECHNOLOGYAt the heart of the Camry is the same 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine as in the new seventh-generation Camry, but purpose-built for the Hybrid. Significant changes include reducing the weight and friction and increasing the compression rate from 10.1:1 to 12.5:1. There is also new software in the hybrid synergy drive system. What all this means is more total power (151kW from 140kW), improved fuel economy (5.2L/100km from 6L/100km) and lower emissions (121g/km from 142g/km). It now sprints to 100km/h in 8 seconds neat, which is down by almost a second. Importantly, it gets five stars in the government's Green Guide with a city cycle economy of 5.7L/1090km which is down 17 per cent and better than most diesels, even on the highway (4.9L/100km).Drivers can choose from three driving modes: Normal, Eco and EV. Normal provides full power, Eco softens throttle response and reduces power losses through airconditioning and EV mode drives for a short distance on the silent-running electric motor.Gardner says it's good for about 1km. If needed, the petrol engine will cut back in. For the first time, Camry Hybrid is rated to tow. Although it's only 300kg (braked and unbraked), it will at least pull most small trailers. DESIGN The Hybrid has all the delicious design upgrades of the new Camry that convert it from standard bowls club transport to dynamic sedan. Blue around the Toyota badge is the telltale sign that this is no ordinary Camry.The differences are subtle, rather than blurting out the hybrid badge. Instead there is a bit more chrome here and there and some small hybrid badges. Inside, there is brushed aluminium, overlapping soft trim and stylish controls and instruments. It no longer looks like a hire car in here. Build quality has also been improved with more precise engineering drawings, leading to a higher degree of product and jig accuracy. What that means is the panel gaps have gone from 5mm to 3.5mm. It's now so tight they even have to worry about the thickness of the paint to ensure doors open and close properly.The result is not only a great-looking finished product, but also one that is quieter. To further improve the cabin hush, there is an acoustic glass windscreen and extra sound absorbing material. It has 46mm of extra legroom in the back, while the boot has more space thanks to the relocation of the DC converter to the front and the battery being moved forward 100mm.SAFETYGardner expects the Camry Hybrid to retain its full five-star ANCAP crash safety rating with its raft of improved active and passive features. There are now seven airbags, adding a knee bag for the driver, seat belt warning indicators for all five seat belts, a reversing camera, reverse parking sensors, hill start control and a bake override that gives priority to the brakes if the driver hits both pedals at the same time. The HL adds rain-sensing wipers, auto high beam dipper and a blind spot monitor from the petrol Camry. Gardner said the dippers required special testing in Australia because the reflectors on our roadside posts triggered the headlight dipping function. It had to be adjusted to only pick up car headlights. Meanwhile the blind spot monitor was adjusted for Aussie lane widths. DRIVINGWhile the new petrol Camry is more powerful and dynamic, the Hybrid is even more so. The Camry Hybrid used to be the puny young sibling. Now it's the sporty elder brother. Gone is the lifeless steering and lumbering handling, thanks to a team of Aussie techs who tuned the suspension for our atrocious roads. Suspension nerd and motorcycle fanatic Stuart Morse led the team who did such a good job accounting for the extra 105kg and different weight distribution characteristics of the hybrid that the US has taken the suspension specs for the sports version of their petrol Camry."We targeted the damping particularly for high speed impacts and I think we got the handling closer to the SX," he says. "The balance is also better. Not better grip but better balance." Camry Hybrid also features a quicker steering ratio and new electric power-steering map which gives it better turn-in and better feel. However, the extra power from the updated engine and motor combination still provokes some mild torque steer on acceleration. Throttle response is crisp in normal mode, even chirping the tyres if you are on white paint or turning a corner. ECO modes smooths that out without making it feel doughy. Despite extra power and more solid suspension, the cabin is remarkably quiet at all times except under heavy acceleration and the final stages of braking when the regenerative brakes make a slight whirring sound.Although it's not strictly a continuously variable transmission it behaves like one, but much better than most. It doesn't scream when you accelerate and seems to react quickly when braking or accelerating.VERDICTThe sums finally add up. You can pat yourself on the back for saving fuel and reducing emissions, while at the same time pat your back pocket where your wallet has been saved from a hefty slug for going hybrid. Passengers will enjoy the extra comfort, quiet and room while the driver will be surprised by the dynamics.SIDEBARIt's hybrid season at Toyota. The Camry Hybrid will be closely followed on to the showroom floors this month (MARCH) by a facelifted Prius and a Yaris-sized Prius c. In the second half of this year, Toyota will add a Prius v wagon.  Toyota sales and marketing director Matthew Callachor says they are expanding their range of hybrids. "By the middle of this year, we will be offering hybrids priced from around the mid-$20,000s all the way to the mid-$50,000s," he says. "Greater affordability, familiarity and sales will help us achieve real market acceptance. "At the moment, hybrids are bought mainly by innovators and early adopters. They are turned on by technology, fuel and the environment." He says most of these innovators and early adopters are aged under 35 as they have a better understanding of hybrid technology. "They are more likely to believe it is worth paying a premium for hybrid," he says. "They are more likely to trust hybrid technology and they certainly understand that hybrids are better for the environment than diesel cars." Callachor says the novelty of hybrids had worn off now that the company had sold more than 3.5m hybrids worldwide.  "And many of the world's major manufacturers, including Holden, are promising hybrids," he says. "We welcome that development. "From the earliest days, Toyota has actively encouraged all carmakers to embrace hybrid technology - and we have licensed our technology to several other companies." Callachor says Toyota is also introducing its hybrids to motorsport with a return to Le Mans this year with a pair of new hybrid race cars and the first hybrid vehicles to enter the FIA World Endurance Championship. "Motorsport improves the breed and our target this year is to demonstrate the performance level of these cars, and particularly the hybrid powertrain."

Maybe it's time to leave the cardigan in the wardrobe and whack on sunscreen instead of a hat - the new Camry is here.While it's not going to have the young hordes screaming into Toyota dealerships to sign up en masse, there's more to like and less to elicit adjectives like boring, banal or beige. The Atara SX replaces the Sportivo and that's what we're in this week - the second-to-top model of the revitalised Camry range.VALUEToyota says the Atara SX wears a $2000 higher pricetag than the outgoing equivalent Sportivo model but has more than enough gear to offset the rise. Aimed at private buyers and user-chooser lease buyers, the $35,990 six-speed auto-only sports model gets a model-specific rear bumper and lip spoiler, as well as sports pedals, sports-tuned suspension, black-tinted headlamps, trip computer, power-adjustable driver's seat,  sport-oriented leather-trimmed interior and a sports steering wheel has audio, phone and cruise controls.The SX features list also has a touchscreen-controlled six-speaker infotainment system, with Bluetooth, USB and 3.5mm inputs and while there's no standard satnav, the screen also displays the image from the reversing camera but there are no parking sensors.TECHNOLOGYTop of the list of technological changes is the engine, which has grown to 2.5 litres and is now running variable valve timing on both sides - it was previously only on the intake valves.  The engine offers 135kW and 235Nm in the Atara (up 2kW and 4Nm over the Altise thanks to the Atara SX's dual exhaust, says Toyota) and runs on 91RON ULP, but doesn't get direct fuel injection. Teamed with a six-speed auto, the fuel use claim is 7.8 litres per 100km - better by one litre than the 40kg heavier superseded model despite the extra 18kW and 17Nm.DESIGNThe new Camry hasn't grown in overall length or wheelbase but is 10mm lower in overall height and 5mm wider - despite that, Toyota is claiming an increase in interior space. There's a more angular snout design, which is reminiscent of the Accord Euro, with a squarer rump, but it's not a classically pretty or handsome car, but it's not bland either. The Atara SX has been given a sportier appearance with a new bumper, side skirts and a dual exhaust system.Toyota says the A-pillar is almost 10mm thinner to improve the driver's range of vision. The cabin is far less dull and claims by Toyota that there's more space, particularly for rear passengers, appears to have merit - despite a slight lowering of overall height, rear head and leg room are enough for me to easily and comfortably sit behind my own driving position. Boot space - even with a full size alloy-wheel spare - is 515 litres, more than a Falcon or Commodore, with a bootlid that goes well past the vertical for easier loading.SAFETYA five-star crash test rating is worn by the new Camry, which gets seven airbags (dual front, side and full-length curtain and a driver's knee bag), as well as stability and control systems that can no longer be switched off by the driver. The safety list also includes anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.DRIVINGGone are the days of the Camry being a dullard to look at or drive. Granted, it's no fireball either. What it is is an inoffensive, roomy, capable family sedan that is value for money. The new look instruments (set within a plush new dashboard) are easy to read and there's no shortage of information on offer to the driver (some of it even useful) from the trip computer beneath the speedometer or within the touchscreen infotainment monitor. The touchscreen (which can suffer a little from sun-glare) makes controlling the sound system and Bluetooth phone easy, but I'd have though satnav could have been standard. The seats are well-cushioned but need more lateral support, but there's no shortage of head or legroom, particularly in the rear, which is not always something that can be said in this segment. The cabin is quiet - except when the squealy tyres are complaining - and the boot is more than useful, despite the welcome full-size proper spare tyre. The driver has good vision and the external rearvision mirrors are an appropriate size (Holden and Ford, take note) and the driver gets automatic headlights but not rain-sensing wipers.Ride quality is well towards the firm side and can get a little jittery on smaller bumps and ruts - when engaged in more enthusiastic driving the bigger bumps are generally dealt with well. The sports model has reasonable body control and corners with cardigan-less enthusiasm, although the Bridgestone rubber was noisier than is ideal.One for the parents is the seatbelt use indicator for the back three seating positions - it's not unique to Toyota but it should be on any vehicle with more than two seats. The engine has got more punch than the outgoing car and carries a little less weight - it's not going to set hearts a flutter with its soundtrack but it tries hard and works reasonably well with six-speed automatic.VERDICTToyota's new Camry has been given more mainstream appeal with less inert looks - the same can be said for the drive experience - that will make the choices even tougher for those shopping in the medium segment. The criticisms are few for the sports-tuned Camry - it's roomier, quieter, has a smooth driveline and is capable and comfortable - but it still lacks the charisma that endears some of its opposition to the families they cart.

Mid-sized cars are not too small and not too big; they're just right. A perfect balance of power and efficiency, comfort and agility, and performance and environmental consciousness.

Yawn, it's a new Toyota Camry. It's a common reaction when Brand T revamps or revises its locally-made foundation model, even though it's been Australia favourite mid-sized car for the past 17 years - two more than the Commodore at overall number one.Yet the latest Camry is surprisingly good in plenty of ways. Cabin quality is up and the sea of grey is gone, advanced safety equipment is available, it drives impressively and it has the potential to re-boot Toyota Australia's exports to the Middle East.This Camry is the seventh generation to carry the name, the fifth generation to be built in Australia since 1987, and finally picks up the sort of stuff that makes the car worth buying and not something you get as a backhanded compliment in the company car fleet."We want to bring peace of mind to our customers. A car you could completely trust," says Keiichi Yoneda, deputy chief engineer on the car.His team - together with a talented crew from Australia - have done well and the car now deserves to be compared with the Ford Mondeo, Mazda6 and Subaru Liberty on its considerable strengths, including an unchanged showroom sticker.VALUEThe latest Camry pricing is sharp, with the basic Altise still going from $30,490 despite a major upgrade and more standard equipment. Even the fully-loaded Atara SL - which replaces the Grande - is only $39,990, although there are Camry hybrid and V6 Aurion models to follow in the first half of next year and they will definitely cost more.Toyota has again tweaked the model lineup, splitting the range - as it has done in the past - with the newly-named Atara models to provide a slightly sporting look that is aimed at private customers and not the fleet buyers who sign the line for the majority of Camry purchases.Toyota says the inevitable mid-range price increases on the Atara S and SX, which replace the Atevo and Sportivo, are more than offset by extra equipment.On that front, the Altise has a six-speaker sound system with Bluetooth and auxiliary inputs - although there is only one power plug in the centre console - alloy wheels and the usual power steering and windows, while the loaded Atara SL gets leather trim, JBL sound, satnav on the seven-inch touch screen, digital radio, a reversing camera, blind-spot monitoring and automatic high beams, automatic mirrors and more in a package that as good as recent Lexus models.Perhaps best of all, especially for people paying their own way, Toyota's capped-price service plan now runs for four years and 75,000 kilometres, with up to five services at $130 a time.TECHNOLOGYThe new Camry is truly new, from the body to the suspension and powertrain. There is a bunch of good new stuff in the Camry, from the six-speed automatic gearbox and 2.5-litre engine to the safety equipment including seven airbags with new knee protection for the driver.Toyota says the engine makes 135 kiloWatts and cuts fuel use to 7.8 litres/100km, although that's also helped by the six-speed auto, with paddle shifts on the three Atara models and a sports driving mode that even blips the engine on downshifts.There is new electric power steering - to cut fuel use - a trip computer on all models, and the walk-up through the range includes keyless entry on the S and SX and the advanced stuff on the Atara SL.DESIGNThis Camry is never going to win a style award, but it cuts a smoother line than previous models and shows Toyota is at least trying to do something about its reputation as a fridge-on-wheels. There is some veiled aggression in the Atara models but buyers are likely to be more interested in the giant boot - with a terrific opening - and the improvements to cabin space that come with the new model.The driver's seat is down by 15 millimetres and there are also gains in rear-seat knee room and more space for a third adult on the back bench. The new interior is more plush, with colour contrasts instead of dull grey, and the latest dashboard display units look good and work well. It's the same story for the seats, which have slightly better shape and nicer trim.SAFETYThe Camry is almost certain to get five stars from ANCAP, thanks to the improved strength of the basic body structure, and those seven airbags. There is also ESP stability control and traction control, while the rear camera and blind-spot systems are a worthwhile addition for an Australian-made car.DRIVINGThe new Camry is a car you can actually enjoy driving. And that's a big deal. It's quieter than before, more comfortable than its predecessors, but also has a sharpness that means you can have fun as well as trouble-free Camry-style motoring.For the first time, I feel like I'm sitting in the car and not on it - thanks to the lower-set driver's seat - and there is good response from the engine with a slick six-speed shift. The new powertrain makes the Camry a touch more lively in city traffic and - once you flick across to the manual mode - the transmission responds well to driver commands for twisty roads.The ride quality is a little compromised on the cars that ride on 55-series tyres on 17-inch alloys, with the most compliant feel in the basic Altise, but the cabin is very quiet in all conditions. Like the majority of good cars, the Camry experience gets better over time. It's not a rip-snorter out of the gate, but you could happily turn its nose across the continent and feel confident of making the trip with no fuss or bother.It's going to take a Carsguide comparison to put the Camry into sharp perspective against cars such as the Ford Mondeo and Mazda6 - as well as all the other hopefuls crowding the mid-sized class - but it's a major advance with real potential to win new friends.VERDICTThis is the car Toyota has needed to finally bury the Camry Chicken, which starred for so long in Australian advertising because a stuffed puppet was more exciting than the car.

Toyota's perennial Camry has been the best selling medium sized car for 18 straight years in Australia.But like other Toyotas it has come under increasing pressure from other car makers, particularly the Koreans who have delivered some outstanding competition in the past year or so.Lampooned in some quarters as the proverbial white-goods on wheels, Toyota has tried to get back to basics with the new, seventh generation Camry. The emphasis is on quality, reliability and durability, not to mention an effort to make the car more fun to drive.We've got to say is better than ever, with more power, better economy and a roomier interior. But fun? We'll let you decide . . .  The new Camry goes on sale this month but you'll have to wait until early next year for a new hybrid, petrol/electric version.ENGINEThe switch to a larger engine flies in the face of the current trend to smaller, force-fed units to achieve the same result. The 2.4 has been replaced by a larger, more powerful 2.5-litre four cylinder petrol engine with 0-100km/h taking a claimed 9.3 seconds.It's technically more advanced with dual VVTi and an acoustic control induction system (ACIS), but still misses out on the benefits of direct injection. Power is up 13 per cent to 133kW and torque has increased by six per cent to 231Nm in the Altise, with slightly more output in Atara models which feature a free-flowing dual exhaust system.ECONOMYDespite the power increase new Camry uses less fuel, down 11 per cent to from 8.9 to 7.8 litres/100km. In real life however the car is bound to use more fuel than this. We saw between 9.1 and 10.8 litres/100km during the launch program. Engine emissions meanwhile have been reduced 25g to 183g/km.CHANGESIt's the same physical size but weighs 35kg less than the car it replaces. The line up consists of four models starting with the Altise followed by the Atara S, Atara SX and Atara SL. The Altise looks different from the other three, with a different front radiator grille and apron and is targeted at the price conscious fleet market.The more expensive, twin-exhaust Atara models feature a three piece grille and twin exhausts and are aimed at the private buyer. S replaces the Ateva, SX replaces the Sportivo and SL replaces top of the line Grande. There's no manual and the five-speed auto has been replaced by a six-speed with steering wheel mounted gear shift paddles in the higher grade models. You can use the paddles at any time and in sport mode it blips the throttle on downshifts.The hydraulic steering has been surplanted by an all electric system, with a firmer, heavier feel (but not too heavy) that stays centred without the need for constant driver input. It also adds some weight in corners to help prevent over correction. The traditional handbrake has been replaced with a foot operated brake. Not a biggy but some people don't seem to like them and as one card suggested it means no handbrake turns. Really though it's just a matter of getting used to it.NEW STUFFThe top of the line model comes with auto high beam that dips the lights automatically when its senses on-coming traffic. It is also equipped with a blind spot warning system that flashes a warning in the mirrors when there is car beside you that you can't see with your exterior mirrors. It also adds a DAB+ digital radio system, complete with traffic updates.THE DRIVEIt has a solid, big car feel. Nice and smooth and quiet. Sits nicely on the road and corners flat with plenty of grip. Local suspension tuning and the recalibrated steering have been designed to produce a more engaging drive. Drop a wheel in the dirt and the stability system quickly sorts it out. Conversation is easy even on coarse bitumen and the car we drove had adjustable lumbar support.Both the i45/Optima and Accord Euro however still deliver more power, but 135kW is more than adequate for the job, especially in combo with the smooth-changing six-speed tranny. There's a 15mm bigger gap between seats and rear passengers benefit from 46mm more legroom.SAFETYHasn't been crashed tested yet but has been designed and is expected to receive five stars. Comes with seven airbags including a driver knee bag and full complement of safety aids. A reversing camera remains a $500 option on the entry level Altise. It's standard with the rest.GOODIESAltise is with 16-inch alloys, trip computer and an upgraded sound system with six speakers and controls on the steering wheel. Atara S also features foglamps, 17-inch alloys, smart entry and smart start, reversing camera, dual-zone air-conditioning, 6.1-inch touch-screen display audio, premium steering wheel and gearshift knob and an electric drivers seat with lumbar support.Atara SX is distinguished by unique rear bumper, rear lip spoiler, sports pedals, sports suspension, black-tinted headlamps and sports leather-accented interior. Top of the range Atara SL features JBL premium audio with 10 speakers, a 7-inch touch-screen display with satellite navigation, digital radio, RDS live traffic updates, reversing camera with back-guide monitor, blind-spot monitor, automatic high beam, electric front seats and rain-sensing wipers.HOW MUCHYou get all this for the same starting price of $30,490, with a four year-warranty that includes fixed price servicing at $130 a pop for five services. Atara S is $33,490, Atara SX is $35,990 and Atara SL is $39,990.