Is the new Camry better than before?

Launched for the first time in 1997, the Toyota Camry has evolved to be one of the major players in the midsize sedan segment. Back then, it was called XV20 and was more of a bigger version of the Corona than anything else. With the first version not tasting a lot of success, Toyota still brought out the second iteration, the XV30. It was powered by a 2.4-litre 2AZ-FE engine which produced 160 PS of maximum power which was certainly more than what the 2.2-litre motor made on the XV20. However, if someone wanted more thrills, there was also offered a 3.0-litre V6 mill. The sedan boasted underwhelming 15-inch wheels which did nothing more than their job.

The year 2007 brought with it the XV40. The Camry was only getting better now. While the 4-pot engine now had a capacity of 2.5-litre, the bigger V6 now boasted a capacity of 3.5-litre. Maximum power generated was no less than 280 PS which made sure that the XV40 left a lot more sedans behind than before. The longer wheelbase of 2776 mm provided with more legroom and space inside the car.

With a sexier than before appearance and a lot more tricks up its sleeves, the XV50 made its way to the market in the year 2012. While the SUVs were receiving more attention and interest than ever before, the Camry still held its ground and continued to be the best in the class seller.

The newest Camry we have in the market is now underpinned by the Toyota New Global Architecture and is called the XV70. Do not bother to think if there was an XV60 in between the years as there was none. Automakers like to play with the numbers and so did Toyota by skipping 60. The latest sedan has got an overwhelming wheelbase of 2,820 mm which, as a result, provides the occupants with much more space inside the car.

Toyota Camry specs tell us that under the hood of the newest kid on the block is a 2AR-FE motor which is good enough for 187 PS of maximum power. The ample power is then delivered to the wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission unit. The sedan features Eco and Sport driving modes and packs in all the necessary safety features like ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, hill start assist, stability control, among others.

Gone is the bald design language of the old Camry. The best selling sedan now looks edgy and sporty. The same goes for the inside of the car as well. The interior features asymmetrical designing and has got wooden elements for that luxurious flair. Even at the back, the occupants have a lot cherish about with elements like dedicated hand-rest, cup holders, and whatnot!

The latest generation of the Toyota Camry is offered in two different variants in Malaysia. The 2.5 G will cost you Php 1.81 million and the top of the line 2.5 V can be brought home by shelling out Php 1.99 million. It won’t any wrong in saying that the Camry has just got better with time just like fine wine. It looks better, drives better, and costs better too. However, the higher costs bring home higher levels for premium-ness as well.