Toyota Hybrid Camry And Camry Awarded 5-Star ANCAP Rating

Toyota's Hybrid Camry has achieved the top 5 Star rating in the Australasian New Car Assessment Program's crash safety testing, the company confirmed this week.

The regular petrol-powered Camry range has also been upgraded to 5 stars, from its previous 4 Star rating.

The 5 Star rating applies to Hybrid Camry and Camry models built from May 2011, thanks to the addition of a passenger seatbelt warning system and updated steering column across the range.

The news comes after it was reported last year that, without those features, the Hybrid Camry would likely share the regular model's 4 Star rating.

Earlier this year, the Hybrid Camry was awarded The Motor Report's 2010 Best Buy Award, chosen for its refinement, build quality and green credentials.

ANCAP testing has confirmed that Camry and Hybrid Camry, produced here in Australia, are strong cars that provide excellent protection for occupants," Toyota Australia's David Buttner said.

"This was no surprise because Toyota's own extensive tests ensure all our vehicles meet or exceed safety standards in every country in which they are sold."

Standard safety features in the Camry and Hybrid Camry range include six airbags, vehicle stability  control, traction control and anti-skid brakes.