Facelifted Camry in Toyota Showrooms
If you drop by at the Toyota showroom, you’ll see a slightly different Toyota Camry 2.2GX. The overall shape is the same but there are some subtle cosmetic changes that freshen up the looks of this executive sedan.
The latest Camry has a more elegant front grille with chrome trim and is now equipped with multi-reflector headlamps that have a crystal-like appearance. At the rear, a redesign of the light clusters gives a larger look that enhances visibility. A new design for the wheels is also used; as before, these wheels are original Toyota accessories. For the latest Camry, customers have a choice of five colours.
Inside, there’s the same high-class feel with fitments such as an oak-_coloured leather wrapping for the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake lever. For those who desire even more luxury, leather upholstery can be provided as an extra-cost option.
For enhanced motoring pleasure, the driver can enjoy a wider variety of music with the upgraded audio system which now includes 6-CD changer and 6-speaker system. For a limited period, UMW Toyota Motor is offering this option, said to be worth RM1,500, for just RM150 extra. Customers must, however, indicate that they wish to have this upgraded audio system installed when they order their new Toyota Camry.
The list of upgrades is rounded off by the improved remote control for the central locking/security system. The unit is slimmer, making it easier to handle and keep in the pocket. For extra convenience, there is also an extra button which unlocks the boot remotely.
No changes have been made to the mechanical areas although, like other manufacturers, Toyota has a policy of continuous improvement so it is possible that little details here and there have been improved or refined.
The locally-assembled Toyota Camry 2.2GX is powered by the Toyota 5S-FE 4-cylinder 2.2-litre engine with a Direct Ignition system. The engine delivers torque smoothly, thanks to the use of two balance shafts installed within the engine. An electronically-controlled 4-speed automatic transmission is standard and provides smooth shifting with minimal losses in power and fuel economy.
The independent MacPherson strut front/independent dual-link rear suspension arrangements are mounted on subframes which help reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).
Safety is always a top priority for Toyota and it has its own tough in-house – GOA – which the Camry had to pass. GOA stands for ‘Global Outstanding Assessment’ and in setting these in-house standards, Toyota was ‘tough on itself’ and set exceptionally tough levels. Some standards are comparable to those presently required in many countries while others were ahead by a number of years. And some, like rear-end collisions and roll-overs are not even mandatory in any country’s regulations.
The aim of GOA is to ensure that the vehicle’s bodyshell can effectively absorb the enormous forces of a collision and provide adequate ‘survival space’ for the occupants to keep injuries to a minimum. ‘Survival space’ is not yet a requirement of any country’s safety regulations but Toyota demands it. To achieve this is not easy, which is why ‘GOA-certified’ bodyshells are only progressively being introduced as new generations of models are designed.
Besides the strong body structure, the cabin also has many sections which are more energy-absorbing to minimise injuries to the occupants’ heads. Airbag Supplementary Restraint Systems for the driver as well as the front passenger are standard, giving a very high level of protection for the occupants. Other safety features include a laminated windscreen and ABS to prevent skidding during braking.
The on-the-road price (Peninsula Malaysia) for the new Toyota Camry 2.2GX with metallic finish is RM168,229.26. Prices for East Malaysia will be slightly higher due to shipping costs while prices in Langkawi will be lower due to the omission of duties.
