9th Generation Toyota Camry Debuts in USA

Toyota has unveiled the all-new 9th generation Camry saloon in the USA which will replace the current 8th gen XV70 model that went into production in mid-2017.

The all-new Toyota Camry is underpinned by the same GA-K iteration of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform that was also used by its predecessor. However, there are some tweaks such as new dampers for improved on-road behavior and comfort.

In terms of design, the new Camry features Toyota’s latest ‘hammerhead’ fascia also seen on the Prius, Crown Sport, and new C-HR. In addition to becoming even more compact than before, the LED headlamps include C-shaped daytime running lights while the sculpted lower intake with patterned trim is framed by subtle air curtains.

At the rear, the taillights mimic the C-shaped design seen at the front and are joined by a more spaced-out ‘Camry script’ on the boot lid. Other changes include a reshaped number plate recess and the termination of the characteristic wrinkle that on the previous generation model connected the taillights to the bumper at the base of the boot aperture.

Inside, the redesigned dashboard’s main feature is a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, however, lower versions come with an 8-inch screen. In front of the driver is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (a 7-inch unit is included in lower variants), a redesigned steering wheel, and a 10-inch head-up display that comes standard on higher trims.

The climate and comfort controls are button-based (no dials) and located higher above the central air vents on the center stack. As we continue below, we come across a conventional gearbox, cupholders, more car controls, and a somewhat closed-off section on the front passenger’s side.

Camry comes in 4 trim levels, namely LE, SE, XLE, and XSE in front- and all-wheel drive configurations. All variants of the 9th-gen Camry in the US will come with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure assist, road sign assist, automatic high beam, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adding on the Premium Plus Package with the XLE and XSE nets buyers traffic jam assist, front cross-traffic alert, lane change assist, a panoramic view monitor as well as front and rear parking assist with automatic braking.

In terms of powertrain, with the addition of two electric motors, the 2.5L naturally aspirated inline-4 cylinder petrol engine in the all-new Camry houses the fifth generation of the Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5), which generates an overall system output of 225 hp.

The AWD model has a third electric motor mounted on the rear axle, which increases the system’s overall output to 232 hp; this configuration is known as E-Four. Both powertrains use a lithium-ion battery and an electronic CVT (E CVT), however, Toyota has not yet disclosed the latter’s energy capacity. Pricing is yet to be revealed & is expected to become available ahead of its formal launch which is expected to take place towards the first half of 2024.