Europe’s mid-size car segment is not only very competitive, but also full of nameplates that are extremely hard to overlook, such as the VW Passat, Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 508, Mazda6, Renault Talisman or the Skoda Superb.
Can America’s all-new Toyota Camry actually make a name for itself within that group? Well, based on this in-depth review by Carwow, it seems that it all depends on what your expectations are.
For starters, while the Camry does technically replace the Avensis, it doesn’t exactly fill in for it in every sense of the word. For example, the Avensis used to be available with diesel engines to compete against the TDIs, HDIs, dCIs and TDCIs of the world, but the Camry is about a whole different approach.
European buyers can only purchase it with a hybrid powertrain, comprised of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, working alongside an electric motor for a combined output of 218 HP. It does work as an alternative to certain petrol-powered mid-size saloons, says this reviewer, but as an overall product, you might find that rival nameplates will offer you better value for money.
Also read: 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid Hits UK Showrooms On April 1st
Also, while it does well for itself in terms of comfort and on-board tech, don’t expect it to feel in any way engaging to drive, neither in a straight line nor in the corners. If you want a more dynamic car from this segment, you’re probably better off with a Mazda6.
In the end though, if you want to steer away from diesels and like the idea of a hybrid powertrain, the all-new Camry will begin making sense.