Toyota craftsmen in Georgetown, Kentucky have assembled an outstanding Camry all-wheel drive, fifth generation hybrid model. I enjoyed test driving this vehicle during a week of colder weather with some limited slick roads and freezing temperatures. The “Supersonic Red” paint was well equipped for winter weather with heated outside mirrors, steering wheel, and heated front seats. Much appreciated as freezing temperatures arrived in Colorado. The Bronco defeat made the state even colder as Superbowl aspirations blew away with missed field goals, an injured quarterback, and a second half blizzard. I did drive the Camry home on slick streets shortly after the game, already very icy roads and the all-wheel drive was most welcome.
This is a very impressive Camry model, shockingly well-equipped with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $33,625. There were options on the test drive model that included the heated features at $500 along with a multimedia upgrade of $750 and wheel locks at $90. Overall, this is a fantastic hybrid model with a 4 cylinder, 2.5L engine teamed with a hybrid time-tested system that results in a 46 mpg. overall mileage. Toyota offers three drive modes; eco, normal, and sport. I used all three modes and the four-door Camry responded very well in all modes with a combined horsepower of 232 hp. net.
The Camry has a sleek sports car appearance and is dubbed “Nightshade” for the model brand name. The 19” alloy wheels are described as finished “Satin Black” and with the bright red premium paint this is a sleek, high performance semi-sports model. And the price is very competitive in the all-wheel drive vehicle selection so vital in Colorado winter driving.
Toyota has installed all of their 3.0 Safety Sense programs including rear cross traffic and pre-collision braking. Along with the safety features there is a very handy wireless phone charger that works fast in the lower center console. Seating is comfortable with sport fabric and “Softex” trimmed seats and a five-way driver’s power seat with lumbar support.
Overall, this is a very well-designed vehicle with excellent fuel and hybrid mileage and well equipped with safety features. Toyota has excellent warranties in place and many service and sales locations. That, said, this is a price/quality touchdown vehicle.