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The hybrid
version of the Camry offers a 2.4-liter,
4-cylinder gas engine which achieves 147 horsepower and
can receive a maximum boost of 45 horsepower from the
electric motor. Thus, the combined gas/electric system can
temporarily produce horsepower of 192 horses, about
the same as the V-6 engine of today’s Camry, but 4
cylinder fuel economy.
The
continuously variable transmission powered Camry hybrid has been
estimated by the EPA to achieve 43 mpg in the city and
37 mpg on the highway. Still, these estimates are
probably higher than real world mileage. For more
on Camry hybrid fuel economy, check out our Camry
hybrid testimonials.
The Camry
hybrid is now produced in Kentucky, making it the
first Toyota hybrid produced in the U.S.. The
Kentucky plant is capable of producing more than 60,000
Camry hybrids per year, around the number of Camry
hybrids that were bought in the US in 2007. In early
2008, the Camry hybrid is selling more units compared to
last year.
Recently,
I was hybrid shopping at a Toyota dealership and I found
a good selection of Camry hybrids to be available.
Unlike Toyota's other hybrids, the Camry didn't include
any Economic Savings Bonus discounts.
Still, if
you like the Prius, but need a bit of a more refined
ride, then the Camry hybrid is your hybrid.
I love the
moonroof on the Camry hybrid, something unavailable on the Prius,
as well as the remote start. The Camry hybrid is my kind
of hybrid.
Let me be
honest, I love the Toyota Prius, but I'm a bit more fond
of the Camry hybrid.
Maybe its the fact that the Camry
hybrid is just more comfortable than the Prius. The
seats in the Camry hybrid are just better than the Prius
and the hybrid Camry can support my bad lower back in a
way the Prius just cannot achieve.
The Camry
hybrid simply does not disappoint.
Yes, the
Camry hybrid provides a little sticker shock when
compared to the standard Camry, but if you keep the
Camry hybrid for 5 to 7 years, the Camry hybrid can be a
smart financial move. And, if gas prices keep going up,
or if most of your commuting is done in urban traffic,
the Camry hybrid, like the Prius, can be a very wise
investment and hedge against energy costs.
If you
like the Toyota Camry, then you'll love the Toyota Camry
hybrid.
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