The 2024 Toyota Camry made its grand debut in India on December 11, setting the stage for a new chapter in the sedan’s legacy. This ninth-generation model arrives with a refreshed design, enhanced features, and an updated powertrain, marking a significant evolution from its predecessor. With a starting price of Rs 48 lakh (ex-showroom), the new Camry represents a Rs 1.83 lakh price hike but promises a host of premium upgrades that justify the increased cost.
Key Features and Upgrades
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
The 2024 Camry introduces the latest version of Toyota’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), known as Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This suite includes advanced safety features like a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, auto high beam, and lane departure alert. These enhancements not only elevate safety but also offer peace of mind for drivers in various driving conditions, making the Camry a standout in its segment.
360-Degree Camera
One of the most anticipated upgrades is the inclusion of a 360-degree camera, a feature previously unavailable in the India-spec model. This addition provides a comprehensive bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, simplifying parking and maneuvering in tight spaces for greater convenience and safety. This feature, becoming increasingly common across modern vehicles, further enhances the practicality and appeal of the new Camry.
Toyota i-Connect
Toyota has also integrated its i-Connect system into the new Camry. This connected car technology allows users to remotely access and control various functions of the vehicle via a smartphone app. Features like remote locking/unlocking, checking tyre pressure status, and even starting the engine remotely enhance convenience and offer an added layer of security to the ownership experience.
Larger Infotainment System
The 2024 Camry now boasts a substantial upgrade in the infotainment department with a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen unit replacing the 9-inch system found in the previous model. This new system supports in-built navigation, a voice assistant, and wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Combined with a 9-speaker JBL sound system, it offers an immersive in-car entertainment experience, ensuring occupants are both connected and entertained throughout their journeys.
Bigger Driver’s Display
Accompanying the larger infotainment screen, the new Camry features a 12.3-inch driver display. This new display replaces the smaller 7-inch unit available on the old model, offering more information at a glance. It provides detailed readings not only on driving stats but also on hybrid system data, tire pressures, and ADAS status. This makes for a more informed and controlled driving experience, especially beneficial for long-distance trips.
Continued Premium Features
Despite these new additions, the 2024 Camry continues to offer the hallmark features that have made it a popular choice. The cabin remains a plush and comfortable space with 10-way powered front seats featuring memory and lumbar functions, rear powered seats with touch-based controls for climate and seat settings, and three-zone automatic climate control. The inclusion of a single-pane sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless phone charger, and a 10-inch heads-up display ensures a premium driving environment.
Performance Upgrades: Powertrain and Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2024 Camry retains its 2.5-litre strong-hybrid powertrain. This updated engine promises a more refined driving experience with a slight boost in performance while maintaining high fuel efficiency. The engine produces a combined output of 184 bhp and 300 Nm of torque, making it powerful yet efficient, suitable for both city commutes and highway cruising. The Camry’s hybrid powertrain remains a key attraction, offering an impressive ARAI-rated mileage of 23.27 km/l, which underscores Toyota’s commitment to fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Competitive Edge Against Rivals
The 2024 Camry continues to square off against the likes of the Skoda Superb in the Indian market. Its blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge features provides it with a competitive edge. The Skoda Superb’s traditional strengths lie in its solid build quality and spacious interiors, but the Camry’s hybrid powertrain and modern tech features make it a compelling alternative for buyers looking for an eco-friendly sedan without sacrificing luxury.
Market and Future Prospects
As Toyota prepares to introduce the 2024 Camry to international markets, it is expected to make a notable impact. The sedan is also anticipated to take center stage at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, where it will showcase its capabilities alongside other electric and hybrid vehicles. This is part of Toyota’s broader strategy to establish a more prominent presence in the Indian automotive market and solidify its position as a leader in hybrid technology.