50 I I MAR 19
I
t’s all about the design! Well, that’s what
the 8th generation Toyota Camry Hybrid
is trying to be. Is there more to it let us
find out?
Toyota Camry has had its share of fan
following that not only like this premium
saloon for its exterior design but for comfort
and practicality. Can the 2019 edition go
beyond to create something special for
the end consumer, well for that lets take a
closer look, shall we?
how iS it on the outSide?
The 7th generation Toyota Camry looked
elegant but had attributes of a boxy design
that in the 8th generation has been given
a miss. The all-new Toyota Camry is not
only bigger in dimensions but also very
nice to look at no matter from which angle
you lay your eyes on it. But before we get
to that, let us inform that the dimensions
have been altered on this premium sedan.
In comparison to its predecessor, the
latest generation is 35mm longer, 50mm
wider and 25mm lower (Length 4885mm,
Width 1840mm & Height 1455mm) due
to which the new Toyota Camry is more
appealing. Circling back to its design,
upfront you get an aggressive fascia that
is highlighted via a sleek grille. Pair of
LED headlamps alongside LED DRLs is the
striking point out here and so is the massive
grille positioned on the lower half of the
front bumper providing it with a distinctive
look. It thus houses a pair of fog lamps as
well. The availability of a muscular hood
ensures that no matter where you are,
the moment this vehicle goes by you will
stand-up and take notice of it. Now to the
sides, with the dimensions out of our way
let us say that the new iteration breaks the
shackles. Its 18-inch wheels and wider set
of tyres provide the vehicle with a sticking
stance. Though looking at our Indian road
conditions, a low ground clearance could
be an issue especially while traveling a full
load. The sloping roofline blends perfectly
into the rear tailgate. This particular section
stands to provide a curvaceous design
as the availability of slim taillights boost
up its prominence. The blue colour touch
provided to the logos in the front as well as
the rear reiterates its ‘Hybrid’ attribute.
how iS it on the inSide?
Earlier the interiors were a bit plain but
now with the advent of this new model
DESIGNED TO IMPRESS
things have drastically improved for the
better. For instance, the dashboard is
completely new, the layout will have you
engulfed to experience each and every
element as you gaze from the driver’s
seat (right to left). The steering wheel
feels more compact than before, the
instrument cluster gets new dials that look
up-market with a multi-information display
right in the center. Move away and the
8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
greets you instantly. This particular unit
comes compatible with a 9-speaker JBL
audio system that sounds really good.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks
it does not offer Apple CarPlay and nor
does it have Android Auto. To make
up, Toyota has provided Mirror Link but
that too does not work with all phones.
These aside, some of the other stand
out points are wireless phone charging
which is a first for this sedan, ventilated
front seats which will be liked by most
of us, its leather perforated seats feel
well cushioned and comfortable. While
the rear needs a mention for its window
blinds, reclining seats and center armrest
that also doubles up as command center
featuring touchpad controls for A/C and
infotainment system.
TOyOTa CaMRy