Revealed at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show is the
all-new version of Toyota's mid-size sedan, Camry. The popular model
took a stylistic step forward when the current model launched in 2011, and
another stride when the facelift arrived in 2014, but takes a much bigger leap
with the introduction of this latest iteration.
Adopting the Japanese automaker's “Keen Look” design
language, the new Camry looks sportier. It sits lower to the ground and with a lower
hood to cut a sleeker profile without sacrificing interior space.
The relatively sportier theme continues inside with
a more driver-oriented cabin space, and promises a more upscale look and feel
with premium, soft-touch materials and more ergonomic seats. It naturally also
incorporates new infotainment features, including a 10-inch head-up display,
seven-inch instrument display, and eight-inch center touchscreen.
Based on the Toyota New Global Architecture, the new
Camry uses more high-strength steel and new molding technologies to improve
structural rigidity without adding too much weight. That ought to make it both
handle better and safer as well, aided by all the active safety features Toyota
could throw at it – including standard pre-collision system, pedestrian
detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning (and correction),
automatic high-beam assist, and ten airbags.
The best-selling car in America for 15 years running, the Camry enters its eighth generation
with three engine options – and bucking the trend, none of them are
turbocharged. There's a 2.5-liter four and a 3.5-liter V6, both mated to a new
eight-speed automatic transmission. And this being a Toyota, of course there's
a hybrid powertrain – based on the 2.5 and paired with a CVT.
Buyers will also be able to choose between four trim
levels, dubbed LE, XLE, SE, and XSE, with the latter two adopting a sportier
appearance. Whether the more athletic look will be enough to lure new buyers
remains to be seen, but one way or another the Camry isn't likely to be knocked
from its perch any time soon.