TOYOTA CAMRY

Easy-breezy elegance, along with Toyota's trademark quality levels and overall finesse

- HALLEY PRABHAKAR

TOYOTA CAMRY HEV ELEGANCE

Engine: 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol, strong hybrid

Weight: 1,645kg

Gearbox: e-CVT automatic

Power: 230PS

Torque: 221Nm

Price: 48 lakh ex-showroom

The Indian automotive market has witnessed some fierce competition amongst leading carmakers, each vying to offer world-class models from their international portofolios to the discerning Indian car buyer. And one of the few models to have graced Indian roads generation after generation is the Toyota Camry. Introduced in 2002 as the fifth generation model, the Camry has steadily evolved into a very unique sedan, transforming into a strong hybrid over the last few generations. Fast forward to today and the all-new ninth generation Camry Hybrid has just been launched. We took it for a spin in and around Bangalore, and came back feeling thoroughly impressed and relaxed.

Over the years, the Camry has transformed from a conservative-looking sedan into a bold, sporty, and sophisticated offering. The ninth generation model embraces Toyota's 'Hammerhead' design language, creating a striking first impression. The sleek LED headlamp units with integrated DRLs remind of the sharp lighting signature of the Supra. The expansive lower grille, coupled with intricate honeycomb-like structures, and neatly integrated fog lamps add to the car's aggressive demeanor. The sculpted bonnet and sharp bumper lines further enhance its dynamic stance, helping it look very striking from the front.