Toyota Camry Reviews

Fuel prices have edged higher in the past week and that's the direction they'll keep going for now.This week the Australian Institute of Petroleum fuel price report shows the national average for unleaded petrol rose by 1.5 cents a litre in the past week to 137.7 cents.The metropolitan average rose by 1.8 cents to 136.3 cents, while the regional average rose by 0.9 cents to 140.5 cents.CommSec chief economist Craig James says: "The bottom line is that motorists should expect petrol prices to edge their way higher if the positive mood on financial markets continues.Filling up the car with petrol is the single biggest weekly purchase for most households, so the future course of petrol prices will be keenly watched by any consumer-dependent business."But surely not so closely as they're being watched by you. With that in mind, we've found the cars that on current prices can be fuelled for about $1000 in a 15,000km driving year.These cars get Carsguide's Triple-F rating - they are all family and fuel friendly. We've used the manufacturers' claims for combined conditions, so if you're driving is mainly urban you'll go north of these numbers; if there's a good open road component it will be south.We've taken broad averages to arrive at our round figures (see below) but they are indicative of what you can achieve with judicious driving and making your visits to the bowser on the days of the lowest pricing.ANNUAL JUICE USE TAKES INTO ACCOUNT:National average price in the 12 months up to Friday July 27 according to Australian Institute of Petroleum15,000km annual averageManufacturer's claim for combined fuel useULP: 134.7 centsDiesel: 137.9 centsFAMILY SEDANToyota Camry HybridPrice: from $34,990Thirst: 5.2L/100km unleadedAnnual juice use: $1068.60If Toyota is synonymous with sci-fi looking hybrids, its best one is cloaked in anonymity. Indeed it doesn't get much more anonymous than a Camry, the Hybrid version of which looks exactly like the common or garden petrol version.It shares the good bits - seven airbags, five-star crash rating and a full-size spare wheel - but its economy is staggering: 5.2L/100km versus 7.8L/100km for the petrol Camry.  It's also quieter. In addition to using one-third less fuel, it costs $130 for each of the five services for the first four years or 75,000km.The price premium - $1,500 more than an equivalent petrol-only model - might pay off but the Hybrid model can tow only 300kg and the boot is slightly smaller. The top version, with near-Lexus levels of luxury, costs $41,490.FAMILY WAGONHyundai i40 Tourer dieselPrice: From $34,490Thirst: 4.7L/100km dieselAnnual juice use: $1,001.10In contrast with the gormless i45, Hyundai has done a great deal of local adaptation work on the i40 sedan. Even if the wagon does not yet have its specially-adapted-for-Oz suspension settings, it is a much better proposition than the i45.That miraculous fuel figure is for the manual, the action of which is a bit like stirring a stick though thick mud. Yet while the auto is claimed to use almost a litre more per 100km, on open road run between Sydney and Brisbane Carsguide recorded only 4.4L/100km.In any case, the sheer driveability of a diesel combined with a good auto makes it preferable. In solely city duty, the i40 is more likely to use above 8.0L, which is surely still worth it given the diesel's open road flair.SMALL SEDANHonda Civic HybridPrice: $35,990Thirst: 4.4L/100km unleadedAnnual juice use: $937.20Honda does a couple of obvious hybrids and one that's far less so. And the Civic version is arguably the best of its breed. The new Civic is a big jump from its distinctly average predecessor. It is up on quality and is simply far better to drive.It uses two power sources - petrol engine and electric motor - but unlike the Camry (and Prius) which can separate the two when needed, in the Civic Hybrid they work in tandem.This is technically simpler but returns higher fuel figures. The Civic Hybrid gets 4.4L/100km against the Prius's 3.9. Still, it's more spacious than the old model and needs smaller batteries so the boot is bigger.The rear seats don't fold down to increase luggage space. It gets a five-star crash rating, electronic stability and traction control, brake assist and six airbags, but a space-saver spare.SMALL HATCHVolkswagen Golf BluemotionPrice: $28,990Thirst: 3.8L/100km dieselUnlinkAnnual juice use: $809.40Golf can be played in a range of colours but the most efficient is blue. In VW-speak, it's BlueMotion, the in-house term for those selected models tuned for maximum economy and minimum emissions.The Golf BlueMotion costs $28,990 $1000 more than the Golf 77TDI that it replaced but comes only with a manual gearbox. But you're prepared the shift for yourself in order to save the planet, aren't you?A plethora of fuel-miser tech here  low-rolling resistance tyres,  stop-start system, brake energy recuperation, slippery aerodynamics, tall gear ratios and a gearshift prompt indicator  are added to the already frugal 1.6-litre turbo-diesel. It's also a brisk performer with Golf's usual excellent handling and ride comfort. It works as well in city traffic as it does loping along a country road.COMPACT SUVMazda CX-5 Maxx Sport dieselPrice: from $39,040Thirst: 5.7L/100km dieselAnnual juice use: $1,214.10This slips us well over the grand mark, but torque isn't always cheap especially not 420Nm of it. CX-5s are selling like cold beers at the cricket because they are at least in diesel form very lively, economical and practical wagons.There's no doubt the CX-5's success is due to it enlarging in the appeal of the Mazda3 hatchback. But it's a better vehicle thanks to the SkyActiv tech that covers body, engine, transmission, suspension and platform. The bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine has class leading economy via its six-speed auto, despite the added weight of all-wheel-drive. Compact enough for comfort in city traffic, it's also very roomy with excellent rear seat leg and head space. The cabin could be a bit more stylish, but it’s simple and the controls are easy to operate. The rear seats split and fold flat. On the road the diesel version slaughters the petrol model.CITY CARFord Fiesta TDCiPrice: from $21,490Thirst: 4.4L/100km dieselAnnual juice use:  $937.10In any guise the Fiesta is well made, affordable and a driver's delight. As a diesel it's also lean running. Made in Thailand, it's big on value. The 88kW/200Nm make this lightweight city car something of a hot hatch, with steering and handling to match.As with other diesels originally derived from Europe, you have to change gear for yourself, though with the arrival of the next EcoBoost petrol engines next year, Ford's excellent twin clutch automatic could become available. Sedan and hatch are identically priced.Though the five door brings the extra load flexibility of its ilk, the sedan's boot approaches that of the next class up in terms of capacity. It'll swallow a monthly grocery shop all right. The diesel is specially calibrated for maximum fuel efficiency and features a coated particulate filter to keep emissions low. The Zetec spec, at $23,490, is worth the extra spend.

Tell people you drive a Camry and they look down their nose at you.

As well as providing plenty of performance, the Camry Hybrid provides interior comfort and very good ride and handling.VALUEImportantly, Toyota has reduced the price of Camry Hybrid H to $34,990 - a significant $2000 under the superseded model. The upmarket Camry Hybrid HL carries a recommended retail price of $41,990. This is a $1500 increase, but includes $4500 in equipment gains over the old model.The Hybrid uses about a third less fuel than the petrol powered Camry. Let’s do some financial calculations: if it uses unleaded petrol at $1.50 a litre and is driven 20,000 km a year for three years the fuel saving would be $2340, placing the Camry Hybrid within the same economic ball park as the regular Camry petrol.TECHNOLOGYArguably the best feature of the new Camry Hybrid is that it feels like a normal car. It has lots of lovely torque right off the line due to the assistance provided by the electric motor that produces full grunt right at the bottom end of the rev range.Which is something that will appeal to Aussie drivers during their unofficial traffic light Grands Prix. OK not many Camry owners drive like that, but who knows, this Hybrid may well lift the enthusiasts’ impression of Toyota’s Camry and increase sales by a substantial amount.There’s 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.More realistically, the Toyota hybrid has superb acceleration particularly in the critical passing range between 80 km/h and 120 km/h. Thus making of ease of overtaking and therefore added safety.The official combined consumption is 5.2 litres per 100 km (down by 13 per cent on the superseded Hybrid), with a city cycle of 5.7 litres/100 km and highway cycle of just 4.9 litres/100 km.At the heart of the Camry Hybrid is a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and high torque electric motor. Power is delivered to the front wheels via an electronic continuously variable transmission. It is a potent, yet seamless, combination.DESIGNToyota has enlarged the boot and giving the car light towing ability. Though in both of these often-important areas it does lag behind the standard petrol Camry. The outgoing Hybrid Camry (note the reversal of the words in the car’s name) had no tow rating. This new generation has been rated at a modest 300 kg tow rate, enough to get a tinny to the boat ramp or a box trailer to the tip. The Camry petrol has a tow rating of 1300 kg.Boot space has been increased by eight per cent to 421 litres as a result of the hybrid battery being moved slightly forward. There is a large hatch allowing for long items to be placed in the boot, but the seat backrests can’t be folded down.Toyota has deliberately kept styling changes to the Camry Hybrid to a minimum, again to keep the ‘normal’ appearance we spoke of a moment ago. The radiator grille has a chromed upper section and a 'hybrid blue' Toyota badge. The headlights are framed by blue accented extensions. The rear end has a hybrid blue Toyota badge and the upmarket Hybrid HL gets a boot spoiler and chrome garnish.All cars have a power operated driver's seat with lumbar adjustment, the topline HL also gets power controls for the passenger seat. The Camry Hybrid HL has a blind spot monitor in the external mirrors as well as automatically dipping high beam.SAFETYCamry Hybrid gets all the same safety equipment as the petrol model: vehicle stability control, traction control, ABS brakes with brake assist, reversing camera. There is now a driver's knee airbag, taking the SRS airbag count to seven. All five seats have seatbelt warnings. It comes as no surprise it has a five-star Australasian NCAP rating.DRIVINGAs well as the improved drivetrain, Toyota has also made significant changes to Camry Hybrid aimed at improving fuel consumption and lowering emissions. There are no belt drives on the engine for the water pump, air-conditioning and power steering. These are all now driven electrically, so only consume power when they are in use.There’s an EV button which, if the battery has sufficient charge, allows the Camry Hybrid to be an all-electric car for up to two kilometres. Handy in covered carparks, as there are no exhaust fumes. The steering is much lighter than the current model but still offers good driver feedback.VERDICTToyota believes its all-new Camry Hybrid for 2012 will make hybrid cars part of the norm in buyers’ minds. After living with one for a week we have certainly come away impressed.

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.

Honda CR-Z Sport and Toyota Camry go head-to-head in this comparative review.

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."