By Milo Rivera
As Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) begins to cap off a 2021 full of momentous accomplishments – including a good number of new model introductions, the inaugural Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) Gran Turismo (GT) Cup, and a successful revival season for the GR Vios Cup, among others – they have given the motoring public one last treat before the year draws to a close.
Coinciding with their holiday thanksgiving festivities, TMP officially revealed the latest addition to their aggressively growing Hybrid-Electric Vehicle (HEV) lineup: The 2022 Toyota Camry HEV. The ever popular executive sedan has further re-asserted itself as a top choice in its class – providing quality, durability, reliability, and elegance as a standard. And now, we can include “environmental friendliness” in there too as the Camry finally makes its smooth transition from a conventional gasoline engine to a hybrid-electric system. This is all part of Toyota’s drive to broaden electrification in the global industry.
Although it’s pretty difficult to aesthetically decipher what’s new with the 2022 Camry at a first glance, Toyota assures that this is “all part of the plan” as an intricate refresh instead of a pervasive makeover was made to retain its distinguished, prominent identity.
Yet for those who want to delve deep into “what’s new” with the new Toyota Camry, you would first notice its more aggressive stare thanks to prominently black bumper and grille finishes with chrome trimmings. In addition, look out for the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system (Apple CarPlay and Android Audio compatible) at the heart of the interior the moment you step in, along with a new leather upholstery finish to further boost the dignified experience.
For the passengers at the back, you now have full independence over the rear climate control and rear door automation with the use of the digital control panel found on the rear center armrest. Rounding off the highlights for the new Camry include a 9-speaker JBL sound system, zonal automatic climate control, wireless phone charging, a new moonroof feature, LED ambient lighting, a Blind Spot and Panoramic View monitor, and a Rear Cross Traffic alert.
The 2022 Toyota Camry’s 2.5-ltr, four-cylinder gasoline engine itself produces a maximum output of 178 PS with 221 Nm of torque. Combine it with its electric motor and you get a total system maximum output of 211 PS. And to complement the exquisite performance handed out by this sedan is its extensive provision of safety through a more comprehensive “Toyota Safety Sense” system. This system comprises more intelligent pre-collision and Lane Departure and Tracing assists – in addition to the standard ABS, EBD, stability and traction control technologies.
Lastly, this executive eye-catcher comes in three color options: Platinum White Pearl Mica, Metal Stream Metallic, and Attitude Black Mica.
In a country wherein SUVs, pick-ups, and compact sedans are pretty much the mainstream choices nowadays, a holistically sound executive sedan would honestly be a good preference to take you from point A to B with utmost comfort, safety, and functionality – not to mention if you want to “arrive in style” as well. As for the 2022 Toyota Camry, not only would you appreciate the fruits of its prestigious character, you’d also be assured that each drive is journeyed with an invaluable purpose, as its predecessors have proven as well. And for a price tag starting at PHP 2,335,000, this car might just be all that fits your desire.
