Al Beeber
Alberta Newspaper Group This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
With the same fuel economy as a compact sedan, the redesigned 2012 flagship Camry is going to have many buyers asking whether they should go small or go in style.
After driving the XLE four-cylinder model, I'm convinced the answer is obvious. The Camry for 2012 is better than ever and that means bad news for other automakers.
Redesigned with sharp creases and slightly more aggressive styling, the Camry should be at the top of any shopping list.
This week's tester is a prime example why the Camry is a top-selling car.
The 2.5-litre four-cylinder mid-sized Camry gets a five per cent increase in horsepower from 169 to 178 for 2012 but fuel economy also increases to 40 mpg city and 50 mpg highway. This is Corolla country. But the roomy Camry will fit five adults in supreme comfort.
The available 3.5-litre, 268-hp V6 also gets better fuel economy thanks to tweaking. It is rated at 34 mpg city and 44 mpg highway which is four-cylinder kind of mileage.
Both engines are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions which have a new final gear ratio to allow faster driving at lower rpms.
The SE V6 model gets paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Camry interiors have been enlarged without increasing vehicle size through "improved design, waste space reduction and the use of thinner, lighter materials," according to Toyota.
However, the company achieved the roomy interior that graces the XLE should be applauded. Even with a sunroof, the XLE has an airy atmosphere that even taller drivers will feel comfortable in. Cabin quality is first-rate with soft-touch surfaces and rich, luxurious leather. This may be a Toyota but the interior quality shouts "Lexus."
The 60/40 split folding backseat, with cupholders mounted in a folding armrest, is a place even the long of limb will feel at home with nearly 39 inches of legroom.
The front buckets of the Camry are perfectly shaped with good side bolstering to keep bodies in place during aggressive driving.
The instrumentation is a work of art with not only large, legible gauges but an instant fuel economy readout with separate dial for average economy within easy view of the driver's eyes. An Eco light illuminates to show drivers when they are being light of foot.
The upscale XLE features a 6.1-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard with a navigation system. This car features Toyota's Entune technology that offers a variety of data services and mobile apps.
The navigation and sound systems are simple to use and with redundant controls for the latter on the tilt/telescoping steering wheel, drivers have fewer distractions.
This top-line four-cylinder model also includes such stuff as a power sunroof, leather heated seats, eight-way power driver and four-way power passenger seat, dual-zone climate control, projector headlights and a backup camera.
Safety features include 10 airbags, vehicle stability control, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist and four-wheel anti-lock brakes.
At highway speeds, the Camry is as quiet as a nursing home at midnight. The car cuts through the air like a hot knife through warm butter. The four-cylinder engine is responsive and pulls this car easily.
For a price of $33,336.45, it may well be considered a luxury car bargain. A base LE model with many of the same features as the XLE can be purchased for a mere $26,826.45. Other models include the sportier SE and SE V6 models and the top line XLE V6 which has a starting price of $33,700.
Buyers who value attitude may want to opt for the SE which is definitely the bad-boy of the Camry lineup with its side skirts, lowered stance, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels and sport-tuned suspension.
In any trim, the Camry is a spacious and competent hauler that deserves a place in the driveway.