Updated Toyota Camry for 2013
The commonly used analogy used to describe Toyota in the industry is that it moves like an oil tanker – slow to change direction, but does so with maximum conviction once it sets its mind to it. In essence, Toyota does not act without reason, but it remains smart enough to react rapidly to the needs and wants of the consumers.
Take the Hilux for example, Toyota was content with selling it with the least powerful engine in the market for the longest time, but the moment it sensed that consumers were being seduced away by the wave of newer and powerful trucks led by the Ford Ranger, immediately came the Toyota Hilux VNT with upgraded engine outputs.
Next example, Toyota Camry, leading seller of the D-segment since 2006. The latest generation was introduced in Malaysia last year and unsurprisingly, the 2.0-litre variants carried over the predecessor’s engine and transmission. Many critics slammed it, but buyers who put their money down had no issues living with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and as such, there was no reason to change that.
Where’s the ‘kaizen’ in that you may ask. Well, here’s the reality, Toyota’s first priority is the voice of its buyers, and if customer feedback shows enough people complaining about something, you can bet it will be fixed in no time. One of the main talking points of the current Camry is that Toyota had surprisingly done away with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) altogether for all variants. Most D-segment models today offer some form of electronic stability control in their higher-end variants, even the previous generation Camry.
Toyota got a lot of flak for this astonishing omission and to its credit, this shortcoming has been fixed less than a year into the Camry’s model cycle. UMW Toyota Motor today announced that the new Camry will feature VSC in the 2.0G and 2.5V models. The VSC package also includes Traction Control (TRC), thereby addressing one of Camry’s the biggest criticisms. It is of course important to note that although the presence of VSC enhances the vehicle’s overall safety, it does not overcome the laws of physics – you still need to slow down for corners.
The exterior design remains unchanged, but the 2.0G and 2.5V variants now get black-coloured interiors with their leather upholstery upgraded to a smooth grain. The 2.0E base model retains its beige interior. Keyless entry and push-start button, previously exclusive to the 2.5V, is now offered in the 2.0G as well. All variants will also feature ISOFIX child seat mounts.
UMW Toyota Motor continues to offer the Camry with an array of cost options that include a custom-designed aerokit, Toyota Premium Security & Solar Film (standard for 2.5V), and DVD audio video navigation with reverse camera.
The updated Toyota Camry will be available on display in Toyota showrooms nationwide beginning 17 May 2013. Prices for the 2.0E and 2.5V are unchanged at RM149,915.30 and RM180,917.10 respectively on-the-road with insurance in Peninsula Malaysia. The 2.0G, meanwhile, gets a RM1,000 price increase to RM158,915.30.
On a separate note, UMW Toyota Motor is running the Amazing Toyota Value campaign during the month of May offering the following promotions:
– Pearl White paint for the Vios 1.5G, 1.5G Limited, and TRD Sportivo for RM800.
– Free Toyota DVD-AVN system with reverse camera for Hilux double cab 2.5G M/T, 2.5G A/T, and 3.0G A/T.
– Downpayment rebates for Vios, Camry, Altis, Prius, Prius c, Hilux, and Avanza.
Pictures: Official Toyota release.
