For so many years Toyota has always been known for producing efficient, reliable and to-the-purpose cars. You won’t normally expect performance oriented adrenaline driven vehicles from the Japanese automaker. However last year Toyota announced to change its image and consumer perception by launching a performance version of each of its core models.
Toyota Camry which also had an impression of a dreary steadfast transportation is longer that boring, in fact it was crowned as the bestselling car of 2019 in USA– a market where SUVs and crossovers have overshadowed conventional sedans during the last few years.
Related: 2019- Best Selling Cars of the World
However this doesn’t mean its sales weren’t affected at all. In fact the Camry sold 336,978 units in 2019 compared to 429,335 units in 2015. But when you compare the numbers with its arch rival Honda Accord which sold 267,567 units in 2019 compared to 355,557 units in 2015, you will realize how well the Camry has been doing in a highly competitive market that is tilting in favor of crossovers and sports utility vehicles. In the first month of this calendar year, Toyota sold 24,824 units of Camry– 64% more than its rival Honda Accord which sold 15,099 units and is suffering from declining sales.
Unlike most automakers in USA, which have cut production of their sedans and coupes, Toyota is not pulling out of traditional passenger cars anytime soon. The company sees the abandonment of these segments by others as an opportunity to grab market share, which it has. In the standard midsize sedan segment, Toyota has gained 5% more market share between 2015 and 2019, rising from 15% to 20%.
According to analysts, the consumer preference toward higher-riding crossovers and SUVs is here to stay. The Camry was once Toyota’s bestselling vehicle, but now that title belongs to Toyota’s RAV4 midsize crossover SUV. But Toyota has been spicing up the Camry, in keeping with Toyota President Akio Toyoda’s directive to stop producing “boring” cars. For example, Toyota shocked many in the industry when it released a sport-tuned version of the humble sedan bearing the TRD (Toyota Racing Development badge) for the 2020 model year.
Toyota Camry TRD
For how many more years the Camry will be able to battle the SUV onslaught is yet unknown; however one thing is for sure, that the current breed of Toyota cars is getting more & more stimulating.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
