Toyota Camry

In a shrinking market of D-segment sedans, the 2019 Toyota Camry represents an alternative to the trendy SUV for those who enjoy driving. Underpinned by the TNGA platform, it handles superbly whilst maintaining the comfort that the Camry has always been known for. 

As a fully imported model from Thailand, the sole variant is priced at RM 196,888, which is thereabouts of the Honda Accord and Volkswagen Passat.

Design

It takes on a more sculptured design compared to its predecessor, with strong shoulder lines that extend from the front fender all the way to the tail lamps. The front bumper is aggressively styled, likely in an attempt to shed some of the elderly images.

Dimensions

Lighting

All lightings are LED, from the LED projector headlamps to the indicator.

Wheels

The sole 2.5V variant wears 18-inch wheels within 235/45 R18 rubbers

Dashboard

The centre console is angled slightly towards the driver, giving a more driver centric feel. Material quality is high with soft touch plastics on the upper dashboard, and even the harder plastics at the bottom feels decent to the touch.

Space and practicality

There is a cleverly thought out storage space under the wireless charging tray and a decently sized centre storage space. Door pockets are rather small and do not extend across the length of the door panel. Cabin space is average, a Honda Accord feels more spacious inside.

Boot

Boot space is below average at 493 litres. As a comparison the Honda Accord has a 570-litre boot while the Passat has a massive 586-litre boot space.

Safety features

The sole variant is equipped with 7 airbags, stability and traction control, blind spot monitor with rear-cross traffic alert, and the full suite of Toyota Safety Sense that includes:
•    Pre-collision System
•    Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
•    Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
•    Automatic High Beam

Comfort features

8-way power adjustable front seats, with lumbar support & memory function for the driver seat and “boss” switch and collapsible headrest for the passenger seat.
Powered rear sun blinds and manual sun blinds for rear windows.
Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents.
Powered tilt and telescopic steering adjustment.

Infotainment

There is an 8-inch infotainment display with JBL audio system, sound is channeled through 10 speakers and sounds great. The infotainment system is easy to use with large and easy-to-read fonts. However, there is no Apple CarPlay/Anrdroid Auto compatibility.

Engine

The Camry is powered by a 2AR-FE 2.5-litre naturally aspirated Dual VVT-i engine. It produces 184 PS and 235 Nm of torque.

Transmission

Transmission duty is handled by a 6-speed automatic transmission. 

Drivetrain

Drive is sent exclusively to the front wheels.

Acceleration

0-100 km/h is completed in 10.5 seconds during our tests. Turbocharged rivals like the Honda Accord and Volkswagen Passat will undoubtedly be quicker.

Engine performance

Putting the notion of the outdated engine aside, it is actually a decent performer. Power delivery is linear, refinement is excellent at a cruise and is fast enough for most.

Transmission performance

Shifts are precise but can be a little hesitant to kickdown unless the throttle is firmly depressed.

Steering and handling

The TNGA magic can be felt at first turn of the wheel; the way the body reacts to steering inputs and how it sits through corners would impress even BMW drivers. And the Camry does it without sacrificing comfort, at all.

Sound proofing

Noises from typical sources like tyre, wind and powertrain are well suppressed. At 110 km/h, the sound level meter recorded an average of 67 dB with moderate traffic.

Passenger comfort

Despite its dynamic capabilities, ride comfort is second to none. It’s as if there is a layer of cushion that remains ride composure through broken surfaces. Front seats are supportive while the rear seats can be a little upright to some.

In mixed driving conditions, the Camry averaged 7.7-litre/100 km, which is commendable for a large D-segment with a 2.5-litre engine.

There are only 2 obstacles to consider when buying the Toyota Camry – price and powertrain. At RM 196,888, it is quite substantial but the equipment level makes the case for itself, especially when compared to rivals like the locally-assembled Volkswagen Passat and Honda Accord. (Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry vs VW Passat – Which is best for you?)

Of course, having the newer Dynamic Force engine would be preferred but the 2AR-FE engine does not feel lacking in any particular area at all.

The Camry’s USP though, is its chassis. The balance of handling and comfort is just spot on and for those keen of driving, that alone might be enough to seal the deal.