Paper or plastic? Dosa or Idli? Sidhu or Boycott? Every day, Indians make decisions on items that are surprisingly similar yet noticeably different. When it comes to buying a super luxury sedan, people are faced with an equally interesting choice. The luxury sedan in India paint broadly with attributes of comfort, reliability and snob value, hoping to appeal to as many people as possible. They are the "smart" and "sensible" choices. They are also, as an unfortunate side effect, rather bland.
It is this blandness that Toyota is hoping to avoid with its all new Camry. Toyota targets bolder styling, larger interior packaging, better performance, reduced noise, more safety features and increased value for money. The Camry strikes a new pose this year, one that is firmer and less timid. In profile, the Camry looks a little heavy due to its tall beltline and roof. Interior room and design is critical for such a car, and the new Camry excels in this area. The cabin has an open and airy feel to it and the instrument panel is clean and functional. The Camry's longer wheelbase pays the most dividends to rear-seat passengers. Safety equipment is comprehensive. The Camry, while not quite spunky, is pleasant enough to drive. The 141-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder petrol mill brews superb acceleration which is smooth and quite. So is the transmission, which provides prompt shifts. Wind noise and road noise barely register. For basic usage, the Camry acts so proper in what it does that it seems like a butler working unobtrusively in the background, making sure your life is as easy as possible. The suspension matrix is cleverly engineered and as usual has the excellent Toyota touch. For the money, though, you do get a lot of car. It's roomy, it's comfortable, it's safe and it's good looking. It would be an insult to recommend this car, because this car does not need anyone's approval. When you buy a Camry you buy one of the best cars in the world.