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We’ve waxed lyrical about the driving dynamics of the Toyota Camry and how the handling didn’t come at the expense of comfort. But there are a few areas that could do with some improvement, which we hope the upcoming facelift will address.
Keyless entry access for all doors
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While the Toyota Camry does come with keyless entry, it is only on the driver’s door. For all other doors, you’ll have to lock/unlock it using the good old-fashioned way of digging into your pockets and taking out the key fob.
Even the biggest Toyota fan will find it difficult to justify that in a car that costs nearly RM 200k (RM 188,763 with SST discount, RM 196,888 without SST discount).
Also read: Deal breakers: Toyota Camry’s Smart Entry needs an upgrade
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
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The Toyota Camry’s infotainment system is nicely integrated to the centre console, but it lacks one crucial feature in this day and age – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
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For the smartphone generation, you’re left with just Bluetooth connectivity. The last we checked, even a Perodua Axia SE features Bluetooth connectivity on its head unit. In a car costing this much, we’d expect a few more options.
Powertrain can be improved
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In isolation, the aging port injection 2AR-FE 2.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine is decent in terms of power delivery and refinement. Nothing exceptional and sufficient for what it is.
But when compared to rivals like the Honda Accord and Volkswagen Passat, the Camry does come up short. It churns out 184 PS and 235 Nm whilst the Honda Accord (201 PS, 260 Nm) and VW Passat (190 PS, 320 Nm) are packing more in their armoury.
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It’s also not as fuel-efficient as said rivals. We recorded a fuel consumption figure of 10.5-litre/100 km in the Toyota Camry. In comparison, the Honda Accord returned 8.8-litre/100 km while the Volkswagen Passat achieved an impressive 6.5-litre/100 km.
The solution is perhaps the Dynamic Force engine that everyone has been going on about for the Camry, since it makes more power and boasts 40% thermal efficiency.
Also read: Pros and Cons: Toyota Camry - Brilliant to drive, but is that enough?
When is the Toyota Camry facelift coming?
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Earlier this year, UMW Toyota outlined the models that are set to be introduced here in the fourth quarter of 2021, which is anytime between October and December. While the infographics merely stated “sedan”, all clues point to the Camry.
Also read: 2021 Toyota Camry facelift, new GR model launching in Malaysia, Q4 2021 - UMW confirms
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The Toyota Camry was recently facelifted in Japan, sporting an angrier look in addition to improved Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), as well as a new Android Auto and Apple CarPlay-supporting infotainment system. So, things are already looking up.
Also read:
New 2021 Toyota Camry facelift launched in Japan: 10 variants, improved TSS ADAS
Ratings: 2019 Toyota Camry 2.5V - Top marks in comfort, 173 pts overall
