Hybrid Vehicles Guide

Overview: The Camry Hybrid is a vehicle that Toyota can bank on. Its good looks, surprisingly powerful engine(s), and renowned Toyota reliability are sure to accelerate it to the front of the crowd. And, of course, its increased fuel economy is a winner.

Detail: Like the insanely popular Prius, power to the Camry hybrid comes from a dynamic duo: a 2.4 liter four, as well as a 105kW electric motor. Toyota claims that the electric assist kicks in silently and without instruction, and our experience seems to show the same.

Initial Impression

The hybrid is certainly a slick looking car, and we much prefer this body versus the Prius. The lines of the Camry are subtle, yet there are distinct enough to give the car character and poise. For a first time or small car buyer, the Camry hybrid will more than likely be the exact look that they are seeking.

The fit and finish of the Camry is typical Toyota – well built, well upholstered, and very functional. The instrument cluster is easy to read, and all of the critical buttons and switches are in good positions that are easy to access.

Driving Impression

Rather than do a review on the technology and gadgetry of the Camry hybrid, we see it fitting to review the actual drive and feel of the car. The way we see it is that in for a hybrid vehicle to be successful it needs to drive and act like a regular car, only with improved range and economy.

The Camry hybrid does just that, and though the two motors are capable of operating independently of each other, the driving mechanics show that the motors are able to operate in unison without a hit on performance or ride quality. In fact, our experience showed quite the opposite: stomping the gas pedal resulted in a surprising amount of torque which surged the car forward.

We noticed that the car was eerily silent when cruising at low speeds or gallivanting through the city. Mash the throttle, however, and the 147 horsepower gasoline engine kicks in as well, resulting in acceleration that made us rethink what a hybrid car truly is.

Conclusion

The Camry hybrid has changed what the meaning of a hybrid car is and, because of its capabilities, we are left wondering how many more hybrid products are just as capable. The Camry hybrid’s ability to get up and go surprised everyone that took it for a spin, and the seamless integration of the electric motor is certainly testament to just how far this technology has come.

We recommend that you book a test drive if you’re looking for a mid-sized car, as this hybrid will not be something you want to miss.