Presented as “reinvented”, the 2012 Toyota Camry boasts changes and improvements that appeal to 21st century drivers. Updated technology and a redesigned interior enhance convenience and comfort, while the refined exterior style makes a statement of quality and elegance. Offered in L, LE, SE, XLE and Hybrid trim levels, there is one to appeal to almost any driver. I enjoyed a full week of test driving a new Camry all over Anderson County as well as the DFW area.
Top-of-the-line is the XLE, with the most standard features. Projector-beam halogen headlamps were a feature I appreciated driving in the early dark of winter evenings on our unlit country roads of east Texas. They lit the road ahead clearly, and I had no difficulty seeing upcoming intersections, obstacles and curves in the road. A very popular feature is the power tilt/slide moon roof, which I like most in the summer months, when it can be left open just a crack to vent the heat that builds in a parked car.
Inside, there is dual zone automatic climate control with rear seat vents. The display audio system is wonderful, with a 6.1 inch touch-screen, AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod connectivity and control, and hands-free phone capability. All this and more can be enjoyed from the comfort of the 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support. The passenger seat is 4 way power adjustable, and both are leather trimmed with multi-stage heating. For increased comfort, there is a leather-trimmed tilt and telescoping steering wheel with Bluetooth hands-free phone and voice-command controls.
Of course we’ve come to expect power windows and door locks, and power adjustable mirrors, all standard on the Camry. Powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve dual VVT-I engine that delivers 178 hp, the Camry drives responsively and is very smooth and exceptionally quiet. It is truly a pleasure for driver and passengers and a luxury car without the high price.
Ten airbags, 3-point safety belts for all seating positions, and the LATCH system are basic safety features. Toyota’s Star Safety System includes enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brake system, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist and Smart Stop Technology. Toyota Care is also included, which is a complimentary maintenance plan with roadside assistance.
The MSRP for the 2012 Camry XLE is $24,725. The estimated miles per gallon is 25 city, 35 highway. Starting with a full tank of gas, I drove it for a week, including general trips to the bank, post office, doctor’s office, shopping, church, as well as to and from the DFW area and Palestine, Texas and elsewhere in Anderson County and never put in any additional fuel. A full week of not purchasing gasoline is a good week!
Visit a Toyota dealership and see for yourself. The ‘re-invented’ Camry might appeal to you also.
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