Camry lifts economy

Toyota's Camry has lifted its game in terms of average fuel consumption with a revised model range that also subtly alters the locally built car's looks, features and pricing.

Most significant is the drop in quoted average fuel consumption figures, which have descended from 9.9L/100km to a more competitive 8.8L/100km.

This compares with 8.7L/100km for the 2.5-litre Mazda6 auto and 8.9L/100km for the automatic 2.4-litre Honda Accord Euro.

Previously the 2.4-litre four-cylinder Camry was no more fuel efficient than the 3.5-litre V6-engined Aurion -- which Toyota continues to claim is the most economical locally-produced six-cylinder car, with a quoted average of 9.9L/100km.

The base 4.0-litre six-cylinder Ford Falcon XT returns a combined-cycle fuel consumption figure of 10.1L/100km, ahead of the 3.6-litre V6 Holden Commodore Omega at 10.6L/100km.

The 11 per cent improvement in the Camry's average fuel consumption figure has been achieved by mechanical changes including a "flex lock-up" control for the torque converter clutch to extend its operating range by including a half-engaged position, modifications to the electronic fuel injection that shut off fuel supply on deceleration at 800rpm compared with 1100rpm previously, as well as changes to the shift points in the auto transmission.

A one-way clutch has also been fitted to the alternator pulley to reduce drag on the crankshaft.

Keen Camry observers will most likely spot the feature lines on the bonnet and the curved grille bars on Altise, Ateva and Grande. The Sportivo gets an extra rev-up with black mesh on the grille and lower intake, as well as a new front spoiler. The side mouldings have been removed to make it "sportier and more contemporary".

All Camrys now get LED taillights which, Toyota says, also contribute to the improved fuel economy through their reduced power drag.

Wheel trims on Altise, as well as the alloy wheels on Ateva, Grande and Sportivo are new too.

Inside, the revised range offers Bluetooth functionality across the board, front, side and curtain airbags, new-look instruments, a handbrake warning chime, an auxiliary audio input and a power socket to replace the ashtray and cigarette lighter.

From Ateva upwards, there's a rearview camera and dual-zone climate-control, while the top-shelf Grande gets "smart" entry and startup, electrochromatic rearview mirror and a punchier sound system.

Altise and Grande prices remain unchanged, while auto Ateva and Sportivo models have been reduced by $1,260.

Prices for 2009 Toyota Camry

Altise manual $28,490
Altise auto $29,990
Ateva auto $32,990 ( - $1,260)
Sportivo manual $33,750
Sportivo auto $33,990 ( - $1,260)
Grande auto $39,990

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