AVC40R Camry

TOYOTA’S totally redesigned, sixth-generation Camry – the fifth to be made in Australia – introduced a completely new front-wheel drive platform, as well as a new four and six-cylinder marketing strategy designed to give the company a two-way bet in the volatile large family car segment.

For the first time since 1988, no Camry V6 is offered – that’s the job of the new Aurion, basically a Camry V6 with a fresh name, revised nose and tail, and a host of other modifications.

The Camry’s 2AZ-FE engine is a 2.4-litre twin-cam VVTi four-cylinder unit producing 117kW of power at 5700rpm and 218Nm of torque at 4000rpm.

It powers the four-pronged Camry range – fleet-chasing Altise, sporty Sportivo, pseudo-luxury Ateva and flash Grande. Like before, only a four-door sedan shape will is offered, so there’s no Camry wagon.

A five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission are the gearboxes on offer.

All models include anti-lock brakes, dual front airbags, air-conditioning, cruise control, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking with an alarm, powered driver’s seat adjustment and automatic headlights-on.

The Grande includes four more airbags, stability control, Bluetooth, satellite navigation and leather trim.

The tracks are wider, the wheelbase is longer, and the body some 15 per cent stronger than the 2002-generation Camry, for much improved steering, handling and roadholding capabilities.