New Toyota Camry Vs Old Camry: Top Differences You Need To Know

Published: Friday, December 13, 2024, 18:59 [IST]

The ninth-generation Toyota Camry has been launched in India, with bookings and deliveries now underway. Priced at Rs 48 lakh (ex-showroom), it is Rs 1.83 lakh more expensive than the previous model. This new version boasts significant updates to its design, interior, and hybrid engine. We examine these changes to determine if the price increase is warranted.

Design & Exterior Changes

The latest Camry features a refined front design with less chrome and a repositioned 'T' logo above a narrow grille. The blue halo around the logo has been removed for a more traditional look. Drawing inspiration from Lexus, the front bumper appears sleeker, while bracket-like elements give it a wider stance. The headlights are now LED without projectors, and the LED fog lamps are closer together.

On the side, new 18-inch machined alloy wheels have a star-like pattern, and 'HEV' lettering next to blue dots on the fenders highlights its hybrid nature. A slim chrome strip runs along the car's length. At the rear, slimmer 'C-shaped' tail-lights replace larger ones from the previous model, connected by a thin chrome strip across the dual-tone bumper.

Interior Features & Safety Enhancements

Inside, one of the standout upgrades is a 12.3-inch touchscreen replacing the older 9-inch unit. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and includes Toyota i-Connect for connected car features. The upholstery has been updated to yellow-brown soft leather, maintaining 10-way power-adjustable seats.

The new Camry also introduces Level 2 ADAS safety features like Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) to keep the car centred in its lane and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) for unintentional lane change warnings. A Pre-Collision System (PCS) helps detect potential collision risks, complemented by a 360-degree rearview monitor.

Engine Specifications & Performance

The updated Camry retains its 2.5-litre petrol-hybrid engine but now delivers 187hp at 6,000 rpm compared to the previous 178hp at 5,700 rpm. Torque remains at 221Nm within the same rpm range. With Toyota's fifth-generation Hybrid System (THS 5), combined output increases from 218hp to 230hp, improving fuel efficiency from 23.27kpl to 25.49kpl under standard test conditions.

Dimensions Comparison

In terms of dimensions, only the length has increased by 35mm to 4,920mm; width and height remain unchanged at 1,840mm and 1,455mm respectively. The wheelbase stays at 2,825mm with a consistent tyre size of 235/45 R18 and a fuel tank capacity of 50 litres. Interestingly, despite being longer, kerb weight has decreased by 20kg to 1,645kg.

Pricing

The ninth-gen Camry's price hike seems justified given its comprehensive updates in design, interior features, safety enhancements, and powertrain improvements over its predecessor. With an ex-showroom price of Rs 48 lakh compared to Rs 46.17 lakh for the outgoing model, these enhancements offer added value for buyers seeking luxury and performance in their sedan choice.