Camry

By Daniels Ekugo

When Toyota Nigeria Limited, sent me press materials on the revamped Toyota Camry, I knew I was in for something big. Manufacturers don’t send such appetizing press releases, one of which is a technical breakdown of the car, just giving it a big hype. After spending a day perusing the different Camry models, I can confidently say that you should believe the hype. The new Camry rocks.

Now in its 8th generation, the Camry has been the best-selling car globally for the past 15 years. This midsize sedan has a reputation for being a a bit boring. It’s the car for those who don’t care about cars. But for the 2018 model year, the company adopted the Toyota New Global Architecture, giving the Camry a completely new platform along with updated engines, transmissions and technology.

According to the Managing Director of TNL, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, whose speech was read by the General Manager, Corporate Services, Mr. Bunmi Onafowokan, the new generation Camry was yet another masterpiece from the stable of Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Japan to be sold in the Nigerian automobile market.

The Camry model, Ade-Ojo said in his speech, was first introduced in 1982 and has evolved through generations to what was now being described as the 8th Generation All New Camry. He said as at 2015, over 18 million units of this delectable model had been sold across regions, adding that the model had “undergone a total transformation and transition, from a proven sedan to one that pushes the boundaries of technology. It is a model that has enjoyed a high level of goodwill and acceptance not only for the superior quality engineering behind it but also for its stunning beauty.

“It is no exaggeration that the rich history of this model already imbues it with outstanding attributes peculiar only to all its siblings in our model line-up. From its upgraded, trendier exterior to its spacious interior design, the latest model of the Camry (being introduced in the Nigerian market) available in 2.5L and 3.5L engines will readily arouse in its lovers a driving pleasure unparalleled in its class. Indeed it is a remarkable package of safety, comfort and performance in equal proportion.”

He said TNL had not been deterred by the nation’s economic downturn. “In fact, it has positively impacted on our creativity in responding to the demands of our dear customers all over Nigeria and we will continue to explore ways of keeping them satisfied and also uphold our culture of excellence.

“In fact, it (the economic landscape) has positively impacted on our creativity in responding to the demands of our dear customers all over Nigeria and we will continue to explore ways of keeping them satisfied and also uphold our culture of excellence”, he added.

TNL’s Marketing Manager, Mr. Bayo Olawoyin, in his presentation noted that the new Camry has high efficiency, high power next generation “Dynamic Force Engine” with powerful acceleration and new direct shift 8AT contributing to low fuel consumption.

He also said it has sequential shifter that allows shift operation like in Manual Transmission, improved noise reduction.

He said the new Camry is “equiped with light weight high rigidity body and new suspension, new double wishbone rear suspension system, low centre of gravity resulting from overall height, floor height, lowered hood, high rigidity body with a 30% increased torsional rigidity, new four-point engine mount to reduce engine vibration transmitted to the cabin, sound deadening and sound insulation material with increased areas and thickness.

“Safety body with a leading global rating and advanced safety, high strength cabin and collision support body to effectively absorb and disperse shock, all speed dynamic radar cruise control.”

Describing the engine, he said “Camry offers a compelling choice of petrol engines, the all-new 2.5L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder and a new 3.5L V6, each delivering a sophisticated blend of performance and efficiency. Both engines utilize the D-4S direct-injection system, which selects the optimal injection method based on driving conditions to pack a powerful punch with enhanced fuel economy to boot. The new 2.5L engine has improved performance by approximately 6% over that of the outgone model.

“For those who love comfort first, the rear seat can be reclined at the touch of a button, reduced gap between windshield and roof to reduce wind noise, a hood silencer to keep engine noise out of the cabin, rear control panel allows power seat, power sun shade and AC adjustment from the rear cabin of the vehicle.”

Other attributes of the new Camry according to Olawoyin include: World Top Class Safety Performance; Segment Leading Advanced Human Machine Interface (HMI); LED Headlamp With LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL); Colored Multi Information Display.

The 2.5L Engine comes with a 215/55R17 tire size, 6 Speed Automatic Transmission, 8 inches Display Audio, DVD, 6Speakers, dual auto AC, 1-12V console box, 2 USB at rear, Push Start, Cruise Control, Clearance/Back Sonar, Reverse Camera.

And for the bigger 3.5L Engine, it comes alongside a 235/45R18 tire size, 8 Speed Automatic Transmission, 8 Inches Display Audio, DVD, 6 Speakers, 3-Zone Auto AC, 1-12V console box,2USB at rear, Push Start, Cruise Control, Clearance and Back Sonar, Reverse Camera, Rear seat control panel, reclinable rear seat.

New Direct Shift 8-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission with Eco, Normal and Sport Modes

Camry’s newly developed direct shift 8-Speed automatic transmission improves acceleration from a stop, provides a smooth ride even at high speeds and helps enhance fuel efficiency. The three distinct available drive modes give you even more control. Sport mode indulges your spirited side with a sharper acceleration feel, Eco mode adjusts throttle input to maximize your efficiency. Normal mode blends fuel economy with performance. Thanks to this choice of drive modes, a perfectly tailored drive arrives with the push of a button.

The revamped Camry offers a compelling choice of petrol engines, the all-new 2.5LDynamic Force 4-cylinder and a new 3.5L V6, each delivering a sophisticated blend of performance and efficiency. Both engines utilize the D-4S direct-injection system, which selects the optimal injection method based on driving conditions to pack a powerful punch with enhanced fuel economy to boot. The new 2.5L engine has improved performance by approximately 6% over that of the outgone model.