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Ninth-Gen Toyota Camry: Features, Specs, and Pricing Breakdown - A Sedan for the Modern Driver

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  • CarGraze
  • Dec 20, 2024
  • Car Info

Detailed Review of The Ninth-Generation Toyota Camry XV80

In a market dominated by SUVs, Toyota has remained loyal to sedan enthusiasts with the ninth-generation Toyota Camry, codenamed XV80. With its sleek design, updated hybrid system, and sporty Sprint Edition tweaks, this Camry has a lot to offer. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this car a standout choice.

Design and Aesthetics: Sportiness Redefined

The Toyota Camry XV80 boasts a sophisticated design inspired by Lexus’ spindle grille treatment and Toyota’s Hammerhead styling. Its sporty red colour is eye-catching, complemented by C-shaped LED DRLs and asymmetrical placement of the front parking camera. The Sprint Edition ups the ante with:

  • Black alloy wheels and roof (though achieved through a sticker wrap).
  • Lip spoiler and diffuser treatment at the rear.
  • C-shaped LED tail lights for a modern finish.

However, some aftermarket elements added by dealers could use better fit and finish, especially the rear diffuser.

Dimensions and Practicality

The Camry retains its platform dimensions, with minor tweaks:

  • Length: Over 4.9 meters.
  • Wheelbase: 2.8 meters.
  • Ground clearance: 145 mm (sufficient for most speed breakers).

The 524-liter boot is spacious and practical, housing the vehicle’s regular battery while the hybrid battery resides below the co-passenger seat, slightly compromising rear legroom.

Hybrid Powertrain: Efficiency Meets Performance

Under the hood, the Camry XV80 features a 2.5L Dynamic Force engine paired with Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system. Key specifications include:

  • Engine Power: 187 PS.
  • Hybrid Battery Output: 136 PS.
  • Combined Output: 230 PS.
  • Claimed Mileage: 25.49 km/l (real-world efficiency of 16-17 km/l).

The transition between electric and petrol power is seamless, offering a smooth drive. However, the EV mode’s pure electric range is limited to 2 km.

Driving Dynamics: Comfort Over Aggression

While the Camry’s suspension leans towards comfort, it maintains decent road handling. The ride quality is plush, making it ideal for chauffeur-driven owners. That said, the sedan exhibits noticeable body roll during spirited driving due to its soft suspension.

Driving highlights include:

  • Three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport.
  • eCVT gearbox with paddle shifters (though manual shifts are largely symbolic).
  • Adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and other ADAS features.

Interior Comfort and Features

Step inside, and you’re greeted with premium materials and thoughtful ergonomics.

The Camry combines luxury with functionality:

  • Seats and Space: Leather upholstery with power-adjustable front seats (including lumbar support and memory function). Rear passengers enjoy a reclining feature and an electrically adjustable sunblind.
  • Infotainment: A 12.3-inch display with JBL’s nine-speaker system. Wireless Apple CarPlay is supported, though Android Auto remains wired.
  • Climate Control: Three-zone climate control ensures optimal comfort for all passengers.
  • Other Features: A 10-inch head-up display, 360° parking camera, and an electric sunroof (Toyota amusingly calls it a “moonroof”).

Safety and Reliability

Toyota prioritizes safety with:

  • Nine airbags.
  • UV-cut glass and Nanoe X air purification technology.
  • Standard ADAS features, including forward collision warning and lane departure alert.

Moreover, Toyota’s hybrid battery comes with an impressive 8-year/1.6 lakh km warranty.

Pricing and Competition

Priced at approximately ₹57.2 lakh on-road in Mumbai, the Camry is positioned as a premium alternative to rivals like the Skoda Superb, BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. While its sporty aesthetics appeal to younger buyers, its real charm lies in reliability, comfort, and ease of ownership.

Final Thoughts

The Toyota Camry XV80 is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to sedans in an SUV-driven world. With its hybrid efficiency, luxurious comfort, and sporty Sprint Edition styling, the Camry is more than just a car - it’s a statement.

If you’re seeking a sedan that blends practicality with performance, the Camry XV80 deserves a spot on your shortlist. Kudos to Toyota for keeping the sedan legacy alive!

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