Toyota jazzes up 8th-generation Camry

In a renewed move to shore up its reputation as dependable, safe, and exciting luxury passenger car to drive, one of Nigeria’s bestselling car is broadening its lineup to include “a Camry for everyone” following its unveiling last week inside the Toyota Nigeria Limited showroom located inLekki, Lagos.

The Camry model was first introduced in 1982 and has evolved through generations before the 8th generation new Camry. Meanwhile, more than 18 million units have been sold across regions as at 2015.

This model has undergone a total transformation and transition, from a proven sedan to one that pushes the limits. It is a model that has enjoyed high level of goodwill. The models being introduced in theNigerian market are 2.5 liter and 3.5 liter petrol engines respctively.

For the Camry’s eighth-generation, arriving at Toyota dealerships in the country this summer, designers cast the car in a sportier mold to suit an upgraded slate of engines as well as a new entry-level model.

According to sources of the local franchisee, “Even as we emphasize feel, handling, and overall driving performance, the automakers have created a Camry that continues to improve in the areas of power output and class-leading fuel economy which are the two things that will resonate the drivers”.

The 2018 Camry was built on a new platform, called Toyota New Global Architecture, as part of a cost-saving measure to streamline the production process. Analysts say the move will support brand’s role in continuing to set the standard for versatile mid-size sedans.

Fuel efficiency will also be key in attracting and keeping Camry customers, especially as the nameplate’s new hybrid lineup boasts figures beginning to rival the segment’s standard.

While the Camry is definitely a yardstick by which other sedans are measured, it seems this segment has become increasingly crowded in the past decade and most automakers today sell a high quality, well designed midsize sedan like the Camry.

Giving highlights of the unveiled Camry, Bayo Olawoyin, brand manager, Toyota Nigeria Limited disclosed that, the engineers line of thought was to manufacture an outstanding vehicle with an appeal founded on rational aspects of quality, durability and reliability, (QDR), Improved ride control, quietness while the engine is on laced with an interior that projects an immediate feeling of excellence on one hand and a driving experience that everyone appreciates.

Olawoyin also noted that, among the key selling points are the vehicle’s leading fuel economy and driving performance, world top class safety performance, segment leading advanced human interface (HMI), impressive value and value for money and it is a high quality ride.

It comes with more efficient and powerful available LED headlights that naturally add a stylish touch to it, 7-inch colour multi information display to show current and average fuel economy, compass heading and audio presets. There is also the 8-inch multi-media touch screen and available 6 speakers, 800-watt entune 3.0 premium audio that makes occupants feel more at home with this type of audio system.

Camry offers a compelling choice of petrol engines, the all-new 2.5LDynamic Force 4-cylinder and a new 3.5L V6, each delivering a sophisticated blend of performance and efficiency.

Both engines utilize the D-4S direct-injection system, which selects the optimal injection method based on driving conditions to pack a powerful punch with enhanced fuel economy to boot. The new 2.5 liter engine has improved performance by approximately 6% over that of the outgone model.

In terms of specifics, the 2.5 liter version has fitted into it 215/55 R17 tire size, comes with 6-speed automatic transmission, 8 inches display audio, DVD, 6 speakers, dual auto AC, 1-12V console box, 2 USB at rear, push start button, cruise control, clearance/back sonar, and reverse camera.

On the other hand, top of the range 3.5 liter version comes with everything like the 2.5 liter variant, but in addition to enhanced tyre size 235/45 R18 , 8 speed automatic transmission and 3-zone auto air conditioning system.

MIKE OCHONMA