2016 Toyota Camry Hybrid

This is the first Camry this writer has been enthusiastic about. This hybrid version of the popular 4-door sedan is a delight to drive. Not only is it whisper quiet, the seats are very comfortable and supportive, and the acoustics easy to live with. More so, though, we were especially impressed with Toyota’s 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder Hybrid engine.

When selecting a Camry Hybrid, engine choice will be easy. They all feature the same 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline-electric hybrid engine, which produces 156 horsepower. Fuel Economy is good: the Hybrid LE delivers up to 43 mpg city/39 mpg highway, while the sporty Hybrid SE and XLE offer up to 40 mpg city/38 mpg highway.

Drivers can keep an eye on how the power is being routed, or battery charged by the energy monitor. All Camry Hybrid trim levels feature three selectable driving modes that allow for various types of driving: Normal, EV and ECO mode. These modes not only affect the Hybrid’s ride, but also determine the ratio of electricity to gas used by the engine.

The three trim levels include LE, SE and XLE. Our test Camry Hybrid was the SE model, with a total vehicle price of $29,820. One expects to pay more for a Hybrid version of any vehicle on the market today. We found the SE model to be just about right, including features we would want.

The LE entry-level trim version offers quite a few nice features, including 8-way power adjustable seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, an integrated backup camera, Entune audio with 6.1-inch touch screen display and keyless entry/push-button start. This is all consumers get-which is a lot, at $26,800. Sorry, no options available.

The SE Hybrid sedan is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, a stiffer sport-tuned suspension, rear spoiler, and leather trimmed steering wheel. The SE allows for some fun when driving a Hybrid car. Often thought of as ‘dull and utilitarian, Toyota’s Camry Hybrid version offers an opportunity to inject a bit of fun into the hybrid experience.
Additional options include a power tilt/slide moonroof and Entune Audio Plus with navigation, Entune Premium Audio, and Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging.

The XLE Camry version offers top-of-the-line luxury. Features include leather upholstery, heated front seats, Entune Audio Plus with navigation and SiriusXM features, LED daytime running lights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and 17-inch alloy wheels. The available optional packages include features like power tilt/slide moonroof, Entune Premium JBL Audio with navigation, blind spot monitor, Qi-compatible wireless smartphone.

Once again, Toyota has done it up well. As anyone out on the road knows, Camry’s outnumber many available sedans today. Pricing is reasonable, the dash is well situated, easy to read and most functions intuitive. The fuel economy, of course, goes without saying.

We drove the Camry Hybrid to Joliet’s Autobahn this week and enjoyed a very relaxing, satisfying ride. A fellow autowriter commented several times what a nice sedan it is.

SPECS
MSRP: $27,995; total vehicle price $29,820; destination $835
Engine: 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder, DOHC 16V w/VVT-1, Hybrid Synergy Drive System, 141 hp., 199 lb. ft. torque
Transmssion: Electronic Continuous VAR Transmission, CVVT
Wheelbase: 109.3 in.
Length: 190.9 in.
Width: 71.7 in.
Curb weight: 3,555 lbs.
Height: 57.9 in.
Fuel Economy: 40/38 mpg.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.1 gal.
Class: FWD, 5-passenger sedan
Wheels: alloy, 17-inch
Tires: 17-inch optional (standard 16-inch)
Warranty: 3 yrs./36,000-miles Basic; 8 yrs/100,000-miles Hybrid component; 5 yrs/60,000-miles Drivetrain; 2 yrs/25,000-miles Free Maintenance