2009 Toyota Camry Updated, Gains Improved Fuel Economy

TOYOTA AUSTRALIA HAS ANNOUNCED a series of upgrades to its Camry range focusing on improved fuel economy and value.

The Japanese manufacturer says it has improved fuel usage on the automatic models by 11 percent, with the Camry now consuming just 8.8 l/100km on a combined cycle, courtesy of a number of changes to its 2.4 litre engine.

A flex lock-up control system has been introduced to the Camry range, enabling the torque convertor clutch to maintain a half-engaged position, and subsequently improve efficiency.

The electronic throttle has been re-mapped, as has the auto-transmission with altered shift points, while the minimum rpm to prevent stalling and rough idling has been lowered to 800rpm. Power output remains unchanged however, producing 117kW at 5700 rpm and 218Nm of torque at 4000rpm.

There are also a number of styling revisions, starting with the fascia, which incorporates refreshed lines beginning at the bonnet and continuing to the front bumper. The Altise, Ateva and Grande models features changes to the grille.

The refreshed Sportivo now boasts its own unique grille, featuring an all-black lattice pattern, while Toyota has also redesigned the front spoiler and removed the side mouldings for a more sport-orientated look.

Improvements have also been made to the rear styling of all models, with 12 LEDs added to the tail-lights to improve safety and efficiency of power usage.

Inside, there are new interior trims and seat fabrics on offer.

Despite the changes, Toyota has managed to maintain the price of the automatic entry-level Altise and for the top-of-the-line Grande. Meanwhile, the automatic Ateva and Sportivo will benefit from a price drop of $1,260.

NEW FEATURES

Camry Altise

• Side and curtain airbags
• Bluetooth^® telephone hands-free system (with steering-wheel controls)
• New audio system with two additional speakers (total: six)
• Auxiliary audio-input jack
• Sunvisor lamps
• LED tail lamps
• Seat back pockets

Camry Ateva

• Rear-view camera
• Dual-zone climate control air-conditioning
• Bluetooth^® telephone hands-free system
• New audio system with 4.3-inch colour LCD display
• USB/MP3 input
• Sunvisor lamps
• Auxiliary audio-input jack
• LED tail lamps

Camry Sportivo

• Dual-zone climate control air-conditioning
• Push-button heater control and LCD display
• Bluetooth^® telephone hands-free system (with steering-wheel controls)
• Auxiliary audio-input jack
• Sunvisor lamps
• LED tail lamps

Camry Grande

• Smart Entry
• Smart Start
• Rear sonars
• Enhanced premium audio system
• Rear-view camera
• Electrochromatic rear-view mirror
• Auxiliary audio-input jack
• LED tail lamps