Model Tested: 2018 Toyota Camry XLE Hybrid Sedan
Engine: Hybrid Synergy Drive — Gas/Electric, 2.5-Liter Dynamic Force DOHC 4-cylinder, plus Nickel-Metal Hydride battery-powered electric motor; 208 net Horsepower
Transmission: Electronic Continually Variable Transmission with sequential shift mode
EPA Rating: 44-mpg city, 47-mpg highway, 46-mpg combined
Base Price: $32,250
As Tested: $37,245
Driving modes: EV, Normal, Eco, Sport
Performance: Power and acceleration are respectable, and better than the previous models. But for some reason we expected to be blown away and weren’t. However, the increased fuel economy did blow us away. We drove this vehicle all week and returned it with a half-full tank of the gas it came with.
Safety Features: Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection;
Blind Spot and Lane Departure monitors;
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert;
Adaptive Cruise Control;
Smart Stop Technology;
10 Airbags;
10″ Color Head-up Display;
Enhanced VSC;
Stability and Traction Controls;
Automatic High-Beams;
Four-wheel ABS Disc Brakes;
5-Star safety rating.
Comfort: Excellent fit and finish;
High-Quality, tasteful, interior materials;
Good Ergonomics;
Dual-Zone climate control;
Premium 6-speaker JBL Clari-Fi audio system with AM-FM-SiriusXM Satellite radio;
Connected navigation and app suite;
Qi-Compatible wireless Smartphone charging;
Comfortable 8-Way adjustable Driver and Passenger seats;
Bluetooth phone and voice command controls;
Power tilt/slide Moonroof
Utility: 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system;
Backup camera;
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth controls;
USB Port with iPod connectivity;
18-inch chrome-finish alloy wheels;
Anti-theft system;
LED Headlights
WOW Factors: Much better fuel economy than EPA ratings;
Longer, lower and wider than previous model;
Crisp, racy styling somewhat out the Toyota mainstream;
Runs in EV-mode longer and faster on flat roads;
Transition from EV-mode to gas is almost unnoticeable;
Great interior room
Bottom Line: The redesigned 2018 Camry is clearly an improvement in an evolutionary and incremental way, and will undoubtedly maintain its position as the top-selling midsize sedan. It’s also unquestionably more stylish, and the hybrid not only offers terrific fuel economy, but is a much better overall performer in every way in EV-mode than previous models.
Comments