Toyota continues the roll out of country-specific versions of its new generation Camry with the launch of the Japanese domestic market (JDM) derivative of the mid-size sedan, which follows the recent introductions of the North American and Ukrainian models.
In Japan, the 2012 Camry is offered at launch exclusively as a hybrid model with power coming from a newly developed 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle, four-cylinder engine delivering 160HP and an electric motor with 143HP, for a combined maximum output of 205 horsepower.
Toyota says that the JDM Camry Hybrid delivers a fuel efficiency of 26.5 km/lt [62.3mpg US or 3.8lt/100km] under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) 10-15 test cycle and 23.4 km/lt [55mpg US or 4.3lt/100km] under the JC08 test cycle.
When it comes to the exterior styling, the JDM Camry comes closer to the Ukrainian model but sports a different front grille and bumper designs, tweaked especially for the hybrid to improve aerodynamics and consequently, its fuel efficiency.
New active safety features for the JDM Camry include a Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) function that prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting up on a hill, a Steering-assisted Vehicle Stability Control (S-VSC) system, electric power steering and braking.
In addition, the HDD navigation system has been updated and provides audio and visual warnings to the driver if the car goes the wrong way through a tollgate, on a highway or service area access road.
Pricing in Japan starts from 3,040,000 yen [US$39,300] for the base model and tops out at 3,800,000 yen [US$49,100] for the G-Package combined with a leather interior.
Hat tip to Leopaul D.!
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