The interior is exactly what I expected, beyond intuitive, like I had all been trained to be ready for Toyota's simple
 |
| The interior is exactly what I expected, beyond intuitive, like I had all been trained to be ready for Toyota's simple stereo and HVAC arrangement in the dash mounted control panel since birth. (Photo: Jonathan Yarkony, Canadian Auto Press) |
stereo and HVAC arrangement in the dash mounted control panel since birth. The dash is comprised of very nice rubberized plastic, the vents are large and maneuverable, the stereo buttons are large and easy to read and the three HVAC knobs integrate extra functions within the knob inset. The front chairs are sturdy and adjustable, and in the case of my tester that included the 'B Package', the power-adjustable driver's seat helping me settle in to a comfortable position easily. The back seat is roomy enough for many shopping bags and/or comfortably seats three, but it's not exactly a limousine-like setting. Then again, I don't think it claims to be.
A twist of the key brings to life a quiet and sneaky engine. It's virtually silent at idle and so smooth taking off under mild
 |
| The 2.4-litre four-cylinder is virtually silent at idle and so smooth taking off under mild acceleration that the only thing quieter must be hybrids on battery power alone. (Photo: Jonathan Yarkony, Canadian Auto Press) |
acceleration that the only thing quieter must be hybrids on battery power alone, or the Lexus ES 330 or RX 300/400h, all based, more or less, on the Camry. I suppose I'll find out in a couple weeks when I drive a Lexus hybrid, truly the best of all worlds (those worlds being luxury, efficiency and power, too).
Meanwhile, the Camry's 4-cylinder is a model of efficiency without any electrical assist whatsoever, tackling commuting with the ease and grace of a dolphin at play. The engine produces 154-horsepower at peak and delivers 160 lb-ft of torque, more than enough for daily duties in and around town. Estimated
fuel consumption is an even 10.0 L/100 km in city conditions and 6.4 L/100 km out on the open highway, assuming you drive 90 km/h and never hit any traffic or hills (i.e. you can never go by estimates, but at least all automakers use the same parameters coming up with fuel consumption ratings so it's easy to figure out which one is more efficient in any given market segment).
