Camry Hybrid scores ‘10’

This week, we’re behind the wheel of Toyota’s redesigned 2007 Camry mid-sized sedan, delivered to us in Hybrid electric dress.

Outwardly, Camry for 2007 is dubbed “all-new” from the designers. However, the artists in charge of the exterior theme did not deviate too far from the successful format that finds Camry the best-selling car in the United States. Specifically, Camry has been the top seller for eight of the last nine years, initially upending Ford’s Taurus in 1997 and falling to second just once behind Honda’s Accord in 2001. That’s an impressive history, and one that should not be “chopped up” on a designer’s board solely for the sake of re-design.

As for the new look, artists put together a sportier look without going too far. The wheelbase is 2.2-inches longer, which results in improved interior and rear seat room. The wheels are bigger than last year, as 16-inchers mated to beautiful aluminum wheels are now standard versus 15-inch last year. To differentiate a Hybrid from a regular Camry is difficult, and only until you see the Hybrid badging you’ll recognize it’s part of the Hybrid Toyota family.

Testing the Hybrid was lots of fun, as we took the Camry Hybrid to “Giants’ Despair” mountain near Wilkes-Barre, Pa. as part of the 100th Anniversary Giants’ Despair Hillclimb activities. Giants’ Despair has been around since 1906, and the Camry Hybrid performed wonderfully on the hill. More on that later.

Perhaps the best “buyer ingredients” Toyota offers are consumer satisfaction and reliability. Year after year, Toyota brands rate at or near the top in just about every “reliability” survey put forth by the consumer magazines out there.

New for 2007 is the Hybrid, which comes with the 147 horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder coupled to a 40-horse electric motor. In combination, the 187 ponies available can churn out a surprising 40 city and 38 highway EPA numbers.

However, what most impressed us is the available power when needed. Camry Hybrid’s acceleration capabilities are quite notable, as we timed from zero to 60-mph in just 8.8 seconds. The transmission is a continuously variable unit that works well and, although it takes getting used to, saves even more fuel due to its design and lack of numerous gear ratios. Gas-powered four and V-6 models are also available with conventional transmissions.

As for mechanicals, Camry joins sibling Hybrids Prius and Highlander in using Toyota’s Synergy Drive Hybrid system. The setup couples the internal combustion 4-cylinder engine to an electric motor-inverter and rechargeable battery pack in an effortless manner. The 40-hp electric motor comes in to assist with acceleration and also motivate Camry sans any engine help, although we found that once you go over 30-35 mph, the engine kicks in. Still, for in-town motoring, what could be better?

The larger tires help in cornering, as Camry surprised even the sanctioning body SCCA officials on its several runs up Giants’ Despair Mountain. We also should note that the independent suspension has been tweaked for ‘07, resulting in better handling without loss of ride comfort. All 2007 models also include a standard tire-pressure monitoring system that alerts drivers when pressure drops below a standard setting.

Inside, be prepared for more room than ever, especially for the rear passengers. Here you’ll find Toyota quality through and through, and then enjoy a comfortable and quiet ride. It’s top class all the way. There are loads of standard features, including seven air bags and excellent safety setups that your Toyota dealer will gladly explain.

Important numbers include a wheelbase of 109.3-inches, 17.2-gallon fuel tank, 10.6 cubic feet of cargo space, and a 3,680-pound curb weight. Our tester came with a $1,200 Navigation option, $30 heated power outside mirrors and a $199 Carpet/Trunk mat set. This bought the final tally to $27,909 with $580 destination.

In summary, Toyota’s Hybrid Camry receives a 10 on a scale of one to 10. It’s truly worthy of the 10, and sure to help Camry keep its “best selling car in America” title for years to come.

Likes: Hybrid system, 40 mpg for a big car, quality, durability, acceleration, reduces dependency on oil.

Dislikes: Availability might be scarce. Nothing about the car itself.