The new Camry uses the Toyota New Global Architecture platform to drive gains across design, driving performance and fuel efficiency.
10 Jul 2017 | 5292 Views | By Autocar Professional Bureau
Toyota Motor Corporation today took the covers off its completely redesigned Camry in Japan and announced the start of sales at all local dealers. Built at the Tsutsumi plant, the carmaker has a monthly sales target of 2,400 units in Japan.
The original Camry debuted in 1980 as ...
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Toyota Motor Corporation today took the covers off its completely redesigned Camry in Japan and announced the start of sales at all local dealers. Built at the Tsutsumi plant, the carmaker has a monthly sales target of 2,400 units in Japan.
The original Camry debuted in 1980 as the rear-wheel drive Celica Camry. Initially sold exclusively in Japan, it was renamed Camry in 1982 and was redesigned as a front-wheel drive sedan for global markets. Since then, the Camry has evolved into Toyota's global midsize sedan, sold in more than 100 countries worldwide. Cumulative sales have topped 18 million vehicles5, including unparalleled success in the United States, where it has been the best-selling passenger car for 15 consecutive years6.
The new Camry design, according to Toyota, aims to test the limits of performance and intelligence, infusing the high-end sedan with a refined feel.
The design team began with a blank slate, using Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) as the basis for the all-new platform, units, electronics, and other core components. The end goal was to achieve beautiful design, responsive driving, and premium ride performance. Augmenting these core features are a Human Machine Interface (HMI)7 to make driving easier, a high-class interior cabin with well-cut features, and state-of-the-art active safety systems. The new Camry redefines the standard for high-end midsize sedans.
TNGA at work
The carmaker says the TNGA-based design has lowered the engine and passenger layout to create a striking silhouette. The new Camry has a slim upper grille with a bold, three-dimensional lower grille. The low centre of gravity accentuates the overall wide stance. The bi-beam LED headlamps feature three-level stacked LED clearance lamps that provide high-quality visibility, offering a wide periphery and range of vision.
Inside the expansive cabin, the navigation display, colour head-up display, and multi-information display are integrated to present information in a way that optimises the driver's operational view and visual movements that allow the driver to focus on driving. The centre cluster panel, which controls the navigation and heater settings, adopts a flush-surface design.
The responsive driving performance originates from the optimal weight balance offered by the newly designed TNGA-based platform and exceptional vehicle stability and minimal sway during high-speed driving.
All four of the engine mounts are hydraulic engine mounts (a first for Toyota), and the optimised placement of the mounts minimises vibration and noise to ensure an exceptionally smooth ride. The suspension features newly developed MacPherson struts in front and double wishbone format in the rear, ensuring responsive driving and premium ride performance.
The parallel rack electronically controlled power steering features responsive handling. The newly developed steering column enhances rigidity and improves steering ability.
The body adopts a ring-shaped frame which limits torsional movement to ensure superior control stability. Body rigidity is further enhanced through the use of Laser Screw Welding, a state-of-the-art welding method for vehicle bodies, and structural body adhesives. The extensive use of ultra-high-tensile hot-stamp steel throughout the Camry reduces its weight while improving collision safety.
The new Camry combines an all-new TNGA-based 2.5-litre Dynamic Force Engine, offering maximum thermal efficiency of 41 percent and high output, with the ever-improving hybrid system (THS II) to deliver fuel efficiency of 33.4 km/litre and exceptional driving performance.