SUVs, with their higher ground clearance and bulkier frames, have managed to lure the majority of buyers away from traditional saloons.

But, if you’re the type that still prefers a sleek, low-slung drive, the Toyota Camry Hybrid has made a return to Singapore.

Don’t change what isn’t broken

The Camry has been a staple in our local climate and is adored by generations of fans for its size and refined drive. Yet, it’s often been the poster car for…well, uncles on a budget.

Still, Toyota has dialled up the luxury with the new Camry Hybrid to the point where it could easily pass for a Lexus.

The exterior has been given a thorough refresh, with sleek headlight signatures reminiscent of the Toyota Prius. It’s elegant and commanding; honestly, if you covered the badge, some folks might actually think it’s an actual Lexus. 

Inside, it is chock full of features like voice-activated controls, electric and ventilated seats, a digital rearview mirror, and a panoramic sunroof. The old and dated infotainment system is gone, replaced by a new 12.3-inch unit running wireless Apple CarPlay.

The quality speaks for itself. Soft-touch plastics, leather seats, and a robust selection of trims and switches that feel solid to the touch. You could say it matches, if not rivals, the class leaders in build quality. 

Space, as expected in a Camry, is plentiful. The backseat comfortably seats three adults with room to spare for legs, shoulders, and heads alike.

The 500-litre boot might not lead the class, but it’s more than sufficient for groceries, luggage, and golf bags.

Smooth Ride with a Touch of Sportiness

The Toyota Camry isn’t destined for the race track or car park rallies, but Toyota has engineered it with more than just functional appeal.

This new hybrid variant is powered by a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine that delivers a respectable 224bhp and 221Nm of torque. It hits 100km/h in 7.2 seconds; faster than the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

But the Camry doesn’t prompt you to test those limits. It’s meant for a more refined drive. It glides over bumps and imperfections with ease, isolating you from external noise and wrapping you in cool comfort, even as the air-conditioning borders on arctic at times (Toyota air-conditioning units are on another level).

Before you know it, you’ll want to cruise, not conquer, the road ahead.

Yet, should you decide to take on a series of bends, the Camry delivers with controlled body roll, firm and progressive braking, and precise (if slightly numb) steering. It’s not a thrill-seeker, but it’s capable enough to keep you engaged.

Value in Every Inch

At a smidgen over SGD$240,000, the Toyota Camry Hybrid offers an impressive amount of car for the price. It’s not a small investment, but with today’s car prices, getting this level of refinement and features in an executive sedan feels like a steal. 

For those who value reliability and premium comfort, you cannot go wrong with a Camry. 

Technical Specifications

Toyota Camry Hybrid

Engine: 2,487cc 4-cylinder 
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 228 bhp (Combined)
Torque: 221 Nm
Gearbox: CVT (A)
0-100km/h: 7.2 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Fuel Economy: 19.6 km/litre (claimed)

Price: S$259,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Toyota Singapore

Photo Credits: Joel Tam (@joel_tam)

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Launched on 29 August at a pop-up showcase outside Wisma Atria, the new Camry is offered in a single variant, aptly named Elegance.

The latest Camry cuts a sharper figure compared to its predecessor. Borrowing design cues from the new fifth-generation Prius, it features those eye-catching ‘hammerhead’ headlights and a lower, sportier stance.

The C-shaped taillights add to its dynamic appeal, making it clear that this isn’t your average executive sedan.

But while the exterior is all about sportiness, the interior takes a different turn; one of refined luxury. The seats, possibly the most plush ever in a Camry, are upholstered in genuine leather and ventilated for added comfort, a welcome touch in our tropical climate.

For those familiar with Lexus, the Camry’s cockpit will feel like home. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, known as the Toyota Audio Multimedia System, bears a striking resemblance to the one in Lexus models, offering a user experience that’s a step above the systems found in other Toyota models.

And with a nine-speaker JBL Premium Audio system as standard, your favourite tunes are set to sound better than ever.

Another welcome update is the move from analogue meters to a sleek digital instrument panel, aligning with what today’s buyers expect.

The backseat isn’t left out either. Passengers can fold down the centre armrest to reveal a control panel that allows them to adjust the temperature, move the seats, and deploy the sunshade, among other convenient functions.

Under the hood, the Camry Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-litre inline-four engine paired with an electric motor, drawing energy from a lithium-ion battery. The petrol engine churns out 185bhp and 221Nm of torque, while the electric motor contributes 134bhp and 208Nm of torque.

However, since these peak figures occur at different points, Toyota calculates the total system output at a respectable 228bhp, propelling the sedan from zero to 100km/h in just 7.2 seconds.

This new Camry Hybrid is also the quickest and most powerful Camry we’ve ever had in Singapore. The previous 2.5-litre non-hybrid model, with its 206bhp, took 9.2 seconds to hit 100km/h.

Fuel efficiency is another strong suit, with Toyota claiming a combined figure of 5.1litres/100km, making this the most fuel-efficient Camry ever officially sold by Borneo Motors. 

Safety is also a top priority, with the Camry Hybrid coming equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, the brand’s latest suite of safety features. This includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Lane Departure Alert, all designed to keep you safe on the road.

Starting at $246,888 with COE, the Camry Hybrid is now on display at the Camry pop-up showcase outside Wisma Atria, open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm until 8 September 2024.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!