MANILA, Philippines - The best-selling executive sedan in the Philippines just received a bolder and sportier makeover as it faces stiff competition in the segment this year. The 2015 Camry boasts of a design that straddles between excitement and refinement. The valiant stance exudes a strong presence that complements its luxurious and iconic title.
“In the spirit of ‘Always Better Cars,’ we are committed in constantly improving and bringing new and exciting changes to delight our customers,” says Michinobu Sugata, president of Toyota Motor Philippines. “Since its introduction to Philippine shores in 1996, it has been very much welcomed by executives and customers with a discriminating taste for comfort and an excellent ride.”
The new Camry features a heavily revised front-end that somewhat mimics its North American sibling. Taking its design cue from the new Vios and Corolla Altis, the 2015 Camry now features Toyota’s signature “keen look” design that lends a sportier, bolder shape. The complex headlamp cluster features LED daytime running lights for the first time with HID projector headlamps. The front bumper is re-sculpted to feature a more aggressive and dynamic shape with horizontal slats. The fog lamps have been repositioned to fit into the hexagonal lower grille as well. At the side, the rocker panel and bottom sections of the front and rear side panels have been modified for a better flowing silhouette while the rear has new LED tail lamp clusters along with a new chrome trim that runs between the combination lamps.
Inside, it receives similar upgrades featuring better materials as well as a host of cutting-edge technology. The new Camry features a new High-Definition meter with multi-information display that offers a better view of various vehicle information day or night. It also adopts a new clear blue interior illumination as well. Moreover, it’s now available in two interior colors: two-tone flaxen (beige)/black for the 2.5V and 2.5G and black for the 3.5 V6.
Joining the G and V 4-cylinder variants is a new driver-oriented S variant for the first time. The Camry S exudes a sportier appeal and is visually differentiated by its five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels and dual tail pipes with diffuser. Inside, it gets a monotone black interior (same as the 3.5 V6) with red stitching. The Camry S also has a three-spoke sports leather steering with and exclusive paddle shifters for direct control. The changes are capped off by sport pedals.
“We understand that there are some owners who prefer to drive their own Camry. In response to this need, our newest variant, the Camry S, will definitely satisfy their need to be behind the wheel. Drivers will now have a more empowered feel,” says Sugata about the Camry’s new variant.
The 2015 Camry balances power and comfort with its choice of drivetrains. They’re largely carried over with the 2.5G, S, and V models getting the 2AR-FE 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with Dual VVT-i producing 178 horsepower and 231 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the 3.5 V6 is powered by the smooth 2GR-FE engine with 277 horsepower and 346 Nm of torque. All models receive a six-speed automatic gearbox with Super ECT and sequential shift function. Plus, they all receive a re-tuned suspension system and re-calibrated electronic power steering for improved handling and ride comfort. The 2.5S adds performance dampers for the front suspension as well.
Ensuring safety for all occupants, the new Camry offers a wealth of active and passive safety features. It has front and side airbags as standard equipment along with ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, and brake assist. Front and rear proximity sensors are standard equipment as well. The V receives curtain and driver’s knee airbags, a rear parking camera, and vehicle stability control with hill-start assist control or HAC.
The 2015 Camry is assembled in Japan for the 3.5 V6 and Thailand for the 2.5-liter models and is available in a wide range of eight colors: Attitude Black, Gray Mica Metallic, Gray Metallic, Silver Metallic, Thermalyte, White Pearl, Grayish Blue Mica Metallic, and Dark Brown Mica Metallic. Prices are as follows: P 1,511,000 (2.5G), P 1,645,000 (2.5S), P 1,745,000 (2.5V), and P 2,128,000 (3.5 V6).