2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid Review

The Camry is available in many different trim levels, ranging from basic to luxurious, with either a four-cylinder engine or a V6. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine incorporates some changes for improved smoothness and makes 158 hp and 161 lb-ft of torque. It comes with either a five-speed manual or automatic. The V6 is a new 3.5-liter that develops 268 hp and 248 lb-ft and is paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission. The V6 has Toyota's Dual VVT-i (variable valve timing with intelligence) system, which helps optimize power and efficiency through the entire operating range.

The Camry Hybrid pairs an Atkinson-cycle 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine making 147 hp with a 40-hp electric motor system-together producing a combined output that nearly matches that of last year's Camry V6. Power is delivered through a continuously variable transmission. The Hybrid also includes an "ECO" button that limits the power drawn by the climate control system and slightly increases fuel economy.

All 2007 Camrys come with increased safety equipment, including anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and brake assist, along with seat-mounted side air bags and side-curtain air bags. Vehicle stability control (VSC) is available as a standalone option ($650), while Camry Hybrid models come with standard vehicle dynamics integrated management (VDIM), a new stability control system that brings together inputs from the throttle, brakes, and steering and is able to make minor corrections to maintain stability.

Besides the new Hybrid, Camrys come in four different trim levels, including the economical CE, mid-range LE, lavishly equipped XLE, and sporty SE. The CE, which starts at $18,470 and is only available with the four-cylinder, while the LE, XLE, and SE can be had with either engine. CE standard equipment includes air conditioning, power windows, locks, and mirrors, cruise control, and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD sound system, while the LE adds more features like a power driver's seat and remote keyless entry. XLE models start at $24,900 and include a long list of upgrades including dual-zone climate control, a 440-watt, eight-speaker JBL sound system with six-disc changer and Bluetooth compatibility, a power moonroof, reclining rear seats, aluminum wheels, and fog lamps.

The sportier SE model adds a blackout grille, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a sport suspension with lower ride height to the LE's equipment.

All Camrys get a multi-function display that includes trip-computer functions such as average fuel consumption, while the Hybrid model gets features similar to the XLE inside, plus a push-button Smart Key starting system. Rear-seat legroom has been improved slightly on all the models.

Standalone options on the CE and LE include satellite radio ($449) and 16-inch alloy wheels ($795). Attention-getting 18-inch, ten-spoke TRD alloy wheels ($2,100) are available on SE styles, while remote start ($529), a moonroof ($940), and the JBL sound system ($1,000) are notable options on the LE only. Major options on XLE models include a DVD navigation system and the Smart Key system (available with the V6 only).
A new Hybrid model joins the Camry lineup for 2007, and the V6 engine gains 40% more power, while all Camry models receive improved brakes and handling. The entire Camry lineup is all new for '07, with a look that borrows cues from Toyota's Lexus luxury brand. Inside, all Camrys have a quieter, more refined ride and improved interior comfort, and more standard safety features. The Camry's wheelbase is about the same size as the outgoing model, but rear legroom has been slightly increased.

The Camry Hybrid borrows Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive, originally showcased in the Prius, to earn EPA fuel economy estimates of 40 city, 38 highway. Starting at $26,200, the Hybrid is nearly $2,000 less expensive than the Camry XLE V6. see less