The Toyota Camry might not be your idea of a dream ride, but it keeps on keeping on, the ninth generation model now on sale in New Zealand.
Toyota NZ calls it a category-leader, though competition is pretty slim these days. No, can’t think of any direct competitors actually. Mondeo has long gone, Accord is not offered here, the Sonata neither, the Mazda6 has gone too, while the Superb is wagon only.
Anyway, the 2024 model has received a styling update and a redesigned cabin. Meanwhile the hybrid powertrain has also been updated with fifth generation tech, adding efficiency.
Toyota calls this latest Camry ‘more premium and refined than ever’. It looks pretty sharp, with a ‘blade’ running between the C-shaped headlights while the front grille is said to promote a ‘wide stance and sleek profile’.
Three grades will be available in New Zealand; the GX, SX and ZR, all powered by the same 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain, driving the front wheels via the usual e-CVT device. The 2.5-litre four, which can run on 91, makes 138kW and 221Nm, while the hybrid system outputs a total of 170kW, up 10 on the old model. As to fuel consumption, that improves with the GX and SX grades rated at 4.4L/100km while the ZR does 4.5
The new Camry is 4920mm in length and 1840mm wide. Luggage capacity is quoted at 524 litres while it can tow up to 400kg.
There’s little to distinguish the grades visually. The GX and SX roll on 17s, the ZR on 18s. The other difference regards the lighting, the higher grade models with full LEDs.
Read our 2024 Toyota bZ4X Pure review
The ZR gains more features such as a panoramic roof, rain sensing wipers and privacy glass. It also gets black leather trim. The SX has a powered driver’s seat, the ZR adds power adjustment to the passenger seat and front seat heating and ventilation.
The GX has an eight-inch screen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, while the SX has a larger 12.3-inch display with wireless charging. The ZR also gets a 12.3-inch instrument screen and a head up display.
The Camry has all the usual Toyota Safety Sense systems; Pre-Collision System with vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle and motorcycle detection. Other safety features include Emergency Steering Assist, Intersection Collision Avoidance Support, Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Emergency Driver Stop System.
Toyota NZ says stock has landed in New Zealand and is ready to go.
Toyota Driveaway Pricing
The Toyota Drive-away price includes all on road costs: WOF, registration, a full tank of fuel, the Toyota Care Service Advantage fixed price servicing package, floor mats, and a three year or 100,000 km warranty.
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