Toyota had to do something, what with the new Honda Accord and Nissan Altima redesign's....
NEW-GENERATION TOYOTA CAMRY AND CAMRY HYBRID GAIN INTERIOR ENHANCEMENTS IN THEIR SECOND YEAR
New soft-touch material on LE and SE grades
Blind Spot Monitor adds rear cross traffic alert
Display Audio screen now standard on base models
Following the introduction of the all-new seventh-generation Toyota
Camry and Camry Hybrid for 2012, these midsize sedans enter the 2013
model year gaining enhancements to interior design and comfort and
safety technology. The Blind Spot Monitor system, with availability
expanded to the Camry SE grade, adds a rear cross traffic alert
function.
America's best-selling car for 14 of the past 15 years, the Toyota
Camry introduced a bold, sophisticated new design with a more spacious
interior, improved driving dynamics and an even quieter ride than before
when it debuted for 2012.
The 2013 Camry Hybrid, which achieves 43 city MPG, also gains the
interior enhancements of the gasoline Camry. A new soft-touch material
is used on the front door panels on the Hybrid LE, as well as on the
gasoline LE and SE grades, replacing harder plastic material used in the
2012 models. On LE grade models (including Hybrid), interior armrests
now match interior color, replacing black. On models equipped with
leather seating, the door panels feature new stitching accents.
In other changes for 2013, the Display Audio screen becomes standard
for the Camry L grade and Camry Hybrid LE. The gasoline Camry is offered
in entry-level L, value-driven LE, premium XLE and sporty SE grades,
with a four-cylinder engine on L and LE and a choice of four-cylinder or
V6 on SE and XLE. The Camry Hybrid is offered in LE and XLE grades.
Introduced in 1983, the Toyota Camry would later establish the
template for the modern midsize sedan, setting benchmarks for Quality,
Dependability and Reliability (QDR), along with a comfortable, quiet
ride. Since that time, Toyota has sold more than 15 million Camry models
worldwide.
Performance and Efficiency
The 2013 Toyota Camry offers three powertrain choices, including a
2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, a 3.5-liter V6 and the Hybrid
Synergy Drive. The 2.5-liter four offers 178 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft.
of peak torque and, teamed with the standard six-speed automatic
transmission, returns 25 MPG city / 35 MPG highway EPA fuel economy
ratings, among the highest in its class.
The 2.5-liter engine employs Dual VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve
Timing-intelligent), which controls valve timing on both the intake and
exhaust camshafts for optimal performance and efficiency at all engine
speeds. The Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) helps optimize
torque over a broad engine speed range.
The DOHC 3.5-liter V6, available in the SE and XLE grades, delivers
268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 rpm.
This engine also gained enhancements in the 2012 redesign, resulting in
impressive 21 MPG city / 31 MPG highway fuel economy ratings. The V6
uses chain-driven camshafts and Dual Variable Valve Timing with
intelligence (Dual VVT-i).
The gas-engine LE, XLE and SE models come equipped exclusively with a
six-speed automatic transmission that offers a sequential manual shift
mode using the console shifter. Intelligent control adapts shifting
strategy in response to driver input, with fast kick-down. The Camry SE
exclusively offers "D range" sequential shifting, which allows manual
shifting with the new steering wheel paddle shifters even when the
console shifter is in the "D" mode. Also exclusive to the Camry SE, the
automatic transmission features faster shift times when in "S" mode,
along with downshift blipping control to emphasize a sense of
sportiness.
Camry Hybrid Achieves 43 MPG City
The new-generation Camry Hybrid debuted a highly revised version of
the brand's Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, including a new 2.5-liter
four-cylinder engine.
The EPA-estimated 43 mpg city/39 mpg highway/41 mpg combined ratings
for the 2013 Camry Hybrid represent a more-than-30 percent boost in fuel
economy compared to the original Camry Hybrid. The gain was due largely
to the new hybrid powertrain, but also due to lighter vehicle weight
and optimized aerodynamics.
Through its unique transaxle, the Hybrid Synergy Drive system combines
output from the four-cylinder engine with a small high-torque electric
motor. The system produces a combined 200 horsepower and varies power
between the gas engine and electric motor, or combines both, as needed.
The 2.5-liter engine, like the 2.4-liter it replaced, uses the
Atkinson cycle (delayed intake-valve closing for an expansion ratio
greater than compression ratio) to achieve maximum efficiency. The
Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system on the intake
camshaft enhances torque, which is greater than with the previous
engine. An electric water pump, a roller-rocker type valvetrain and a
variable-output oil pump help to reduce internal friction, boosting
economy.
A water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system helps to ensure
the lowest possible emissions at all vehicle speeds and helps increase
fuel efficiency. By cooling and controlling exhaust gas injected into
each cylinder, the system eliminates the need to richen the air-fuel
mixture to control cylinder temperatures.
The 2013 Camry Hybrid meets AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial-credit Zero Emissions Vehicle) standards.
Because there are situations in which the gas engine in the Camry
Hybrid shuts off, air conditioning and power steering systems are driven
electrically. New efficiency measures in the Hybrid Synergy Drive
system include reducing internal losses in the transaxle, improving
motor-voltage control, and optimizing the regenerative braking. The
proven nickel-metal-hydride battery, located in the luggage compartment
behind the rear seats, features enhanced air-cooling. Its more compact
size, along with moving the DC/DC converter to the engine compartment,
results in a trunk that is 2.1-cubic feet larger than in the
previous-generation Camry Hybrid.
Lighter overall vehicle weight also contributes to better performance
and fuel economy. A 7.6-second zero-to-60 acceleration time places the
Camry Hybrid between the four-cylinder and V6 models. Lower rolling
resistance tires, available for the first time in 17-inch size, also
help boost fuel economy.
An EV Drive mode allows the driver to operate the Camry Hybrid on the
electric motor alone for up to 1.6 miles at lower speeds (below
approximately 25 mph). The EV indicator illuminates when the vehicle is
being propelled solely by the electric motor. A driver-selectable ECO
mode optimizes throttle response and air conditioning output to
prioritize maximum fuel economy.
Applying the brake in the Camry Hybrid converts the electric motor to a
generator that captures the kinetic energy from the still-spinning
vehicle wheels, storing it in the hybrid battery pack. Putting the
shifter into "B" uses regenerative braking as a form of engine braking
for enhanced control on steep descents. Hill-start assist control helps
prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when starting off on an
incline when the brake pedal is released.
Exclusive exterior and interior design touches and badging
differentiate the 2013 Camry Hybrid from other Camry models. A
Hybrid-exclusive instrument cluster with Hybrid System Indicator and
fuel consumption indicator helps the driver to operate the car as
economically as possible. Instantaneous fuel economy is shown with LEDs
(light emitting diodes) around the outside of the average fuel economy
gauge. The car's Multi-Information display graphically shows fuel
economy in real time and can also show energy flow, and cruising range
information.
Hybrid-exclusive trim is used on the instrument panel and door switch
bases, upper console panels and shift knob. The Camry Hybrid also
features its own exclusive seat fabric in ivory or light gray, and an
exclusive leather and Ultrasuede® is also available. A three-dial
Optitron gauge panel with chrome-accented outer rings provides a
luxurious appearance.
Exterior Design
The new-generation Camry employs an elegantly simple but modern form,
emphasizing a wider, lower stance than previous models. The design
conveys an "architectural statement" through crisp, precise character
lines, accented by dynamically shaped headlights. A strongly curved door
cross-section and defined rocker panel molding (chrome accented on LE
and XLE) give the Camry an expressive appearance. Fog lights are
standard on the XLE and SE grades.
The Camry LE and XLE feature additional exterior chrome trim, and the
SE grade has its own lower-body design and exclusive fine-mesh upper
grille section. The SE also features a three-part lower grille section
housing fog lamps, along with black sport trim headlamp bezels. The more
prominent rocker panel moldings on the SE cleanly link to integrated
front and rear underbody spoilers, emphasizing width, and the trunk lid
carries an integrated spoiler.
Interior Design
While featuring nearly the same external dimensions as the previous
generation, the new-generation Camry offers a more spacious interior.
Toyota optimized interior elements to gain additional space and to
enhance driver and passenger comfort. As one example, tilt range for the
standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel was increased 33 percent over
the previous-generation model. And the middle rear seat gained two
inches of legroom in the redesign.
The prominently curved center cluster appears to float over the
instrument panel, reducing its visual mass. Soft textures used on the
upper instrument panel, upper door trim, door panels, armrests, and
center console armrest contribute to refined comfort in the Camry.
Stitching on the instrument panel soft padding and matching
stitching-look trim elsewhere helps to create a sense of luxury.
Aluminum-color and chrome trim are used judiciously.
The LE and XLE grades feature either ivory or gray seating color; the
Camry SE features unique upholstery in black-on-black or black-on-gray.
Seat comfort, long a Camry strong suit, received extensive attention to
detail in the 2012 redesign. New seat frames, higher seat backs and
longer seat cushions all combine to enhance driver and front passenger
comfort. The SE's sporty front seats provide thicker, more supportive
side bolsters.
The 2013 Camry offers four seat-covering materials: fabric in the LE
and XLE; fabric with SofTex™ trim in the SE, standard leather trim on
the XLE V6 (optional in the XLE four-cylinder), and Ultrasuede®with
leather available for the SE and XLE Hybrid. Heated seats are standard
on the XLE V6 and are available for SE, XLE four-cylinder and Hybrid
with variable temperature control.
Two steering wheel designs, with integrated audio and Bluetooth®
controls, are featured: a four-spoke for LE; a leather-wrapped
four-spoke for XLE; and a sporty three-spoke, leather-wrapped wheel for
the SE, which offers paddle-shift control for the six-speed automatic
transmission.
Controls in the Camry impart a high-precision feel when used. The
console's front section offers a 12V accessory connector and an
easy-to-access USB/input jack port for connecting iPods and other media
devices. A sliding rear console door, rather than the more traditional
flip-up design, enables easier access from either front seat.
All grades feature a standard 60/40 split folding rear seatback to
expand cargo capacity. The seats can be lowered by a remote release from
the trunk area. Rear-seat side airbags are standard across the line,
and an armrest with cup holders adds comfort and convenience.
Advanced Connectivity
All 2013 Camry models feature a standard Bluetooth® wireless
connection for compatible hands-free phone calls, and a phone book
transfer function is available. A standard USB port allows playing music
and video from portable audio devices, using the vehicle sound system
and available in-dash display screen, and includes full iPod®
integration.
The Camry L and Camry Hybrid LE models gain the Display Audio 6.1-inch
screen for 2013. On the Hybrid, the screen also displays the energy
monitor and fuel consumption data. On models with the available
integrated back-up camera, the display functions as the monitor. The
screen also offers a new value-driven navigation system and serves as a
portal for Entune®, Toyota's innovative new multimedia system. An
available HD Radio system enables CD sound quality from digital FM
broadcasts, and has features that maximize analog and AM broadcast sound
quality. The system includes HD Radio with iTunes® tagging and SiriusXM
Satellite Radio™.
The top-of-the-line audio is equipped with a new seven-inch Premium
HDD Navigation system with Entune®and JBL. This system offers a new
split-screen feature that allows for simultaneously displaying
navigation and audio information.
Camry also offers the JBL GreenEdge™ audio system that combines an
eight-channel amplifier and door-mounted acoustic lens speakers. The
GreenEdge™ amplifier achieves a 66-percent reduction in overall mass and
a 50-percent enhancement in sound efficiency, and the speakers produce a
higher sound output with the same power or less consumption of
conventional models.
Entune Multimedia System
The Camry's available Entune multimedia system leverages the user's
smartphone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully
integrated access to navigation, entertainment and information services.
Toyota Entune offers support for engaging mobile apps, such as Bing,
OpenTable, and movietickets.com, along with accessing useful
travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information
(location and price), stocks, and sports. Toyota Entune brings the
largest selection of music options available to a vehicle, including
iHeartRadio's 750+ stations, and Pandora's personalized music service.
The audio systems combined with Entune feature a best-in-class,
advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver
to stay focused on the road by eliminating the need to memorize
thousands of voice commands. The system also allows for audio read-back
and replay capabilities for text messages, with the ability to respond
by pre-set "Quick Reply Messages" such as: "I'm driving and will reply
later."
A Benchmark for Midsize Sedan Quietness
Long lauded as a benchmark for ride smoothness and quietness in the
midsize segment, the new-generation Camry takes both attributes to an
even higher level of refinement. To reduce noise throughout the entire
cabin, focus was placed on suppressing noises that stand out. As
powertrains have become more refined and quieter, wind noise and road
noise have tended to become more noticeable to drivers and passengers. A
low noise reading (in decibels) does not always equate to a
subjectively quiet interior. Vehicle occupants' perception of quietness
also depends on the type and frequency of the sound.
Additional insulation was placed in areas where such noticeable sounds
might enter the cabin. Sound absorbing materials silence any noise that
manages to penetrate the interior. In particular, engineers focused on
suppressing noises that are near the frequencies of human speech to
provide an environment that is more comfortable for conversation.
Measures that focus on reducing wind noise include stronger door and
rocker area seals; optimized placement of sound insulating materials;
foam applied in the roof, pillars and door openings; acoustic glass used
for the V6 and Hybrid model's windshield, and special bracing of cowl
intake louvers. The dashboard structure and assembly was thoroughly
optimized to prevent noise intrusion, including the use of sandwiched
sheet steel that uses asphalt foam to absorb vibration energy while
increasing sound blocking effectiveness.
A dash outer silencer uses an air layer between the dash panel and
sound absorbing felt. An inner silencing layer uses soft and hard felts
to block a wide range of low-to-high frequencies.
Damping-coating thickness and application areas were optimized for
reduced floor-panel vibration and noise penetration through the floor,
and a new type of carpet also helps eliminates noise. Silencer panels
installed in the rear-wheel housings, and new sound-absorbing materials
added to the trunk's interior side trim further reduce road noise from
the tires and wheel housings.
Exceptional Handling and Ride
A rigid body structure, revised front suspension, redesigned rear
suspension and aerodynamics all help to imbue the new-generation Camry
with greater straight-line stability and crisper steering response,
while also enhancing overall ride comfort.
The Camry body structure uses a greater amount of high tensile steel
(440 Mpa or higher) than before and even stronger high tensile strength
sheet steel (590 Mpa or higher), resulting in a stronger but lighter
body than the previous model. A flared design on the doors and fenders
enables the use of slimmer but stronger construction. High tensile
aluminum bumper supports are lighter yet stronger than before. Newly
developed plastic for the bumper covers and cowl louvers reduced weight,
as well.
The front-suspension towers are directly connected through the cowl to
increase rigidity, and the attachment method and reinforcement braces
have been strengthened. The all-new rear underbody and rear subframe
increase lateral force control and torsional rigidity.
The McPherson-strut front suspension now uses inversely wound coil
springs that enhance straight-line stability. Shock-absorber damping and
stabilizer-bar thickness have been optimized as well. The proven
dual-link rear suspension was redesigned with new geometry (increased
toe-in during cornering and braking) and retuned components to enhance
cornering stability.
Inspired by Formula One racing technology, the rear-combination lamps
and side-view mirrors on the new Camry incorporate aero stabilizing fins
that create air vortexes on the body sides to contribute to handling
stability. Underbody aerodynamic elements regulate airflow under the
vehicle, also contributing to ride smoothness.
The Camry SE model features specific suspension components and tuning,
including exclusive steering knuckles and lighter, stiffer lower front
control arms. The front and rear springs are exclusive to this model,
and the shock absorbers feature internal rebound springs for greater
cornering roll resistance. The rear suspension No. 1 control arm uses a
pillow-ball bushing to further enhance handling agility.
Camry's electric power steering (EPS) control system regulates
power-assist response based on vehicle speed and steering-input rate.
The vehicle-speed sensing feature ensures light effort during low
speeds, changing to moderate effort during higher speeds. A different
power-assist ratio for the SE grade provides a more sporty feeling than
the LE and XLE. With electric power steering, electricity is only
consumed when assist is necessary, helping to improve fuel economy.
Electric power steering is also more environment-friendly, as it does
not require hydraulic fluid.
The LE grade features standard 16-inch wheels; the SE comes standard
with five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, and the V6 SE offers the first
18-inch alloy wheels on a Camry. The latter feature is a unique
twist-spoke design with 225/45R18 all-season tires. Camry SE models will
also offer tires that have more grip. The Camry XLE comes standard with
17-inch alloy wheels featuring an elegant 10-spoke design.
Safety and Security
All 2013 Camry models are equipped with 10 standard airbags:
dual-stage advanced SRS front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side
airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver's and front passenger's knee
airbag.
The Camry's body structure is designed to help absorb collision-impact
forces and help minimize impact deformation to the passenger cabin.
High-strength steel is used for B-pillar and rocker panel reinforcements
to help manage overall body deformation in the event of certain side
collisions. The seat frames also are designed to help absorb side
collision loads. The inner-hood structure and front-edge construction
are designed to help reduce pedestrian injuries in a collision.
Toyota's Star Safety System™ includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC),
Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic
Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. It also features the
Smart Stop Technology brake-override system, and Camry is equipped with
an electronic tire pressure monitoring system.
Another available safety system, Safety Connect, can access a call
center with a live operator who can dispatch police and emergency
vehicles. The system combines automatic collision notification and a
stolen vehicle locator feature, which can track the location of the
stolen vehicle via GPS and help guide police to recover it.
The available Blind Spot Monitor uses sub-millimeter wave radar to
detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots. When the system detects a
vehicle in the adjacent lane, it alerts the driver using indicators on
the side mirrors. If the turn signal is on when the there is a vehicle
in the blind spot of the driver's intended lane, the indicator on the
corresponding mirror will flash. New for 2013, the system incorporates a
rear cross traffic alert, which can be especially helpful when backing
out of a driveway or parking slot.
In vehicles equipped with one of the display audio systems and backup
camera, when the vehicle is shifted into Reverse, the audio display
screen shows the image of what the camera captures, along with an
overlay of positioning lines representing the parking space and distance
to obstacles.
Peace of Mind Warranty Protection
Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to
all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional
60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against
corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components,
including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module
and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.
The Camry will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary
plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside
assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
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