The latest model has undergone transformation from a proven sedan to one that pushes the limits. It is a model that has enjoyed high level of goodwill.
The Camry model was first introduced in 1982 and has evolved through generations to what was launched last week.
By 2015, over 18 million units have been sold across regions.
The models introduced into the Nigeria are 2.5L and 3.5L Petrol engines.
TNL Managing Director Kunle Ade-Ojo, who was represented by General Manager, Corporate Services, Mr Bunmi Onafowokan, described the latest model as a masterpiece
Ade-Ojo said the Camry has enjoyed a high level of goodwill and acceptance not only for the superior quality engineering behind it but also for its stunning beauty.
Despite the unfriendly economy, Ade-Ojo said this had not deterred TNL. He added: “In fact, it has positively impacted on our creativity in responding to the demands of our dear customers all over Nigeria and we will continue to explore ways of keeping them satisfied and also uphold our culture of excellence.”
He thanked their dealers and reporters for their “consistent support even in this challenging business climate to ensure that we maintain our leadership position and the success of the Toyota brand in the Nigerian market”.
The firm’s Marketing Manager Mr Bayo Olawoyin, who presented the car before unveiling, said its interior projects a feeling of excellence and a driving experience that everyone appreciates.
The car’s key selling points include high efficiency, and high power next generation, dynamic force engine,” powerful acceleration and new direct shift 8AT contributing to low fuel consumption, sequential shifter that allows shift operation like in manual transmission, improved noise reduction.
It is equipped with light weight high rigidity body and new suspension, new double wishbone rear suspension system, low centre of gravity resulting from overall height, floor height, lowered hood, high rigidity body with a 30 per cent increased torsional rigidity, new four point engine mount to reduce engine vibration transmitted to the cabin, sound deadening and sound insulation material with increased areas and thickness.
The car comes with a world top class safety performance, which include high strength cabin and collision support body to effectively absorb and disperse shock and all speed dynamic radar cruise control.
It has a seven-inch colour multi-information, which displays the car’s average fuel economy, compass heading and audio presets.
The Camry offers eight-inch Multi-Media touch screen and available six speakers, 800-Watt Entune 3.0 Premium Audio. The advanced airbag standard comes with an Advanced Airbag System with advanced dual-stage SRS driver and front passenger airbags, in addition to front and rear side curtain airbags. There are nine airbags in all and all focuses on rider’s safety.
When the brake-hold switch is on and the transmission is engaged other than Park or Reverse, the brake is automatically applied. In fact, the electronic parking brake will automatically engage after three minutes if the car has not moved.
The car’s interior has been redesigned to be roomier especially for the rear occupants to enhance the luxury feel of the vehicle. The seats have also been redesigned to increase comfort for all occupants.
Now that it has been redesigned for innovativeness and style, we can only imagine how the Camry will once again come on top of sedan sales.
1. Dimensions
Curiously enough, Toyota made the Camry 0.7 inch wider with the wheelbase two inches longer, and the roof and hood height lowered by one and 1.6 inches, respectively. The front and rear hip points have also been lowered, giving the new Camry a sportier look than its predecessor. Inside, even the dashboard has been lowered significantly to maintain visibility.
2. Driving Dynamics
To provide better driving experience, the new Camry has been bolstered, something that the Japanese automaker already did for the model during its mid-cycle refresh back in 2015. There’s a new double-wishbone suspension and four-point engine that reduce noise, vibration, and harshness.
Toyota swore that drivers will notice the improved dynamics the moment they sit on the driver’s seat.
3. Powertrains
The vast majority in the lineup will get the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder “Dynamic Force Engine.” Compared to the current model with a 2.5-liter engine as well that produces 178 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, the new Camry is slated to be more powerful. It will also be competitive in terms of fuel economy.
There are two other powertrains: the 3.5-liter V-6 to be shared with the Highlander and Sienna and the Hybrid. Options for the V-6 include a four- or six-cylinder paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Camry Hybrid has the new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a revised CVT that features a new Sport mode with simulated six gears.
4. Interior
The new Camry has these features: 7-inch gauge display, a 10-inch Head-Up Display, and a center stack controls with the latest Entune 3.0 touchscreen.
5. Pricing
There are no pricing details yet, but let’s wait and see if we’ll get something out of its introduction at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show. The new Toyota Camry is expected to start its deliverables in late summer 2017.