2024 Toyota Camry detailed ahead of launch

The new 2024 Toyota Camry has been detailed for Australia ahead of its arrival here – in three versions, all featuring hybrid power – in the second half of this year.

The ninth-generation Camry’s adoption of an all-hybrid powertrain line-up was confirmed back at its global reveal in November 2023 and, as expected, the all-wheel drive version to be sold in North America, where the existing V6 option will be axed, won’t be offered in this market.

Instead, XV80-series mid-size sedan will be available in Australia exclusively with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels with help from Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system for the first time.

Toyota says the result is 168kW – up from 160kW – and 173kW for the AWD sold in other markets.

The Japanese brand says the new hybrid system enhances “driveability, acceleration and fuel economy” with its new transaxle, motor and lithium-ion battery.

Toyota Australia says its first new Camry line-up since 2017 (although it rides on the same GA-K platform and also carries over the current model’s roof and front doors) will comprise the Ascent, Ascent Sport, SL trim levels, following the axing of the mid-range SX variant.

Standard equipment highlights for the entry-level Ascent will include an 8.0-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7.0-inch driver’s display, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and tail-lights, fabric seat trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic power windows, electric parking brake, two more rear USB-C ports and an expansion of Toyota Connected Services functionality.

The Ascent Sport will add a bigger new 12.3-inch infotainment interface with satellite-navigation, high-grade LED headlights, daytime running lights and tail-lights, a wireless phone charger, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, leather-clad steering wheel and shift knob, eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, LED courtesy lamps and scuff plates.

The flagship SL will go even further with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, heated steering wheel, rear privacy glass, rear camera washer, 18-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, heated exterior mirrors with memory and reversing function, leather-accented seat upholstery, power steering wheel adjustment, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat, paddle shifters and a nine-speaker JBL premium sound system.

Full specification and pricing details will be announced closer to the new Camry’s local release and Toyota Australia sales, marketing and franchise operations boss Sean Hanley has declared there is still a market for traditional sedans like the Camry in Australia, where the unquenchable thirst for hybrids continues.

“Camry is proof that there is still a market in Australia for sedans, especially when they offer the value, efficient performance and good looks buyers are after,” he said.

“Combined with the increase in safety equipment and technology, the space, comfort and reliability of the new Camry range ensures it will continue to resonate with private and fleet buyers alike.”

The new safety tech Hanley refers to comprises front and rear parking support brake, blind spot monitoring, safe exit assist, rear cross-traffic alert and driver monitoring, plus improvements to the pre-collision and active cruise control systems.

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