Turning 37 can be a tough transition for some, but for the Toyota Camry, it's a celebratory marker for this landmark model's largest, most diverse lineup ever. The first-ever XSE Hybrid grade combines the Camry's most fuel-efficient powertrain with its highest expression of the sport and luxury blend. All 2021 Camry models debut Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, the automaker's newest version of the groundbreaking driver assist technology suite that includes automatic emergency braking. All Toyota Camry models for 2021 also get an added dose of tech and luxury with a new floating multimedia screen in 7-inch or 9-inch sizes, plus a new herringbone seat pattern on the XLE grade. Capping off the long list of enhancements, restyled front ends lend greater distinction among Camry grades. This expansion for 2021 follows a year in which Camry added an all-wheel drive option and its first-ever TRD performance model. The "L" grade has been discontinued for 2021. The LE now becomes the point of entry for the model line.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+
Toyota is a pioneering force in the adoption of Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) ever since it made the advanced safety features standard across many of its model lineup for 2017, five years ahead of the voluntary commitment by many OEMs with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to make it standard on virtually all light vehicles. For 2021, the Camry is the first Toyota model to include TSS 2.5+, the next phase in Toyota's evolution of safety systems. A number of functions that are part of the Toyota Safety Sense have been enhanced. For starters, the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), features multiple enhancements. By enhancing the system capabilities, it is now possible for the system to help detect not only the vehicle ahead but also a preceding bicyclist in daytime and even a preceding pedestrian in low-light conditions. TSS 2.5+ also enhances the PCS w/PD system with intersection support. At intersections, the system may detect an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian when performing a left-hand turn and may provide audio/visual alerts and automatic braking in certain conditions. Additional PCS functions include emergency steering assist, which is designed to stabilize the driver's emergency steering maneuvers within their lane while avoiding a preceding pedestrian, bicyclist or vehicle. Camrys that come equipped with Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), which can activate the feature above 30 mph, have a system designed to perform vehicle-to-vehicle distance controls down to 0 mph and resume from a stop. DRCC also includes a new feature that allows for smoother overtaking of slower vehicles. If traveling behind a vehicle traveling slower than the preset speed, once the driver engages the turn signal with steering input the system will provide an initial increase in acceleration in preparation for changing lanes; after changing lanes, the vehicle will continue acceleration until it reaches the preset driving speed.
Camry All-Wheel Drive is Smarter All-Wheel Drive
The all-wheel drive option that Camry debuted for 2020 is projected to account for about 15 percent of Camry's 2021 sales. The Toyota-developed Dynamic Torque Control AWD system is available as a standalone option for the four-cylinder LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade and XSE grades. Notably, the Toyota Camry AWD is a North America-only model developed in the U.S. and assembled exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky. Camry AWD uses the high-efficiency 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine teamed with an eight-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission. Dynamic Torque Control AWD provides effective traction for inclement and slippery weather while minimizing AWD's typical drag on fuel economy. The system can direct up to 50 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels, in response to acceleration from a start or slippage at the front wheels. When AWD isn't needed, the electromagnetic controlled coupling on the rear drive axle can disengage the propeller shaft to prioritize fuel efficiency. The AWD is designed to re-engage in an instant when needed and its operation is transparent to the driver and passengers. The addition of AWD does not affect passenger space, trunk room, ride comfort, cabin quietness or vehicle agility. Inside, the car has the same rear seat hip point height as the Camry Hybrid.
Toyota Hybrid System
The Camry Hybrid powertrain is the most efficient and powerful offered since the Hybrid debuted for 2007. The super-efficient Toyota Hybrid System (THS II) combines the output of the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine and an electric motor (MG1), while using that motor and a second motor (MG2) for hybrid battery charging. In the Hybrid, the gas engine employs an even higher 14:1 compression ratio and is tuned to produce 176 hp and 163 lb.-ft. of torque. Paired with the 118 hp electric motor, the total Hybrid system net output is 208 hp. The hybrid system, however, gives the Toyota Camry Hybrid performance similar to the four-cylinder gas version. Sequential Shiftmatic technology allows the driver to "shift" the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). It mimics a quick-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission via paddle shifters (on SE and XSE grades) or with the console-mounted shift lever. The Lithium-ion (Li-ion) hybrid battery pack is installed beneath the rear seat and does not reduce passenger room or trunk capacity. The battery's position also contributes to a lower center of gravity. Along with the traditional Camry Hybrid NORMAL, ECO and EV drive system modes, a SPORT mode allows for an increase in power from the hybrid system for improved acceleration response relative to throttle pedal input. The clever Auto Glide Control (AGC) feature helps to enhance fuel efficiency by calculating efficient coasting logic. AGC can be activated only when the vehicle is being operated in the ECO drive mode. When activated, AGC limits the loss of vehicle speed through engine braking, acting more like a neutral gear to allow longer coasting. An AGC indicator light illuminates on the multi-information display when AGC is in operation to alert the driver of reduced engine braking.
High Power, High Efficiency, Low Cost of Operation
The 2021 Camry offers a choice of three powertrains: 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder, 3.5-liter V-6 and next-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS II). The Dynamic Force 2.5-liter engine is a strong but smooth operator, yielding an impressive 203 hp at 6,600 rpm and 184 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,000 rpm (206 hp and 186 lb.-ft. for XSE grade, which uses a dual-outlet exhaust). Most AWD grades have 202 hp, while the Toyota Camry XSE AWD grade has 205 hp with dual exhaust. The Camry's four-cylinder engine uses a very high compression ratio (13:1) and Toyota's innovative D-4S fuel injection, which employs both direct injection and additional port injectors. The engine is chock-full of Toyota's most advanced technologies, including Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing intelligent system by Electric motor) and laser-clad valve seats. A variable cooling system, variable oil pump and a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system all contribute to the engine's high thermal efficiency and outstanding fuel economy.
Genuine V-6 Performance at a High Level
The 2021 Toyota Camry is one of the few midsize sedans to still offer a V-6 engine, and this one is a gem. The 24-valve, DOHC 3.5-liter engine is equipped with the D-4S direct injection system, along with a specially-developed VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) variable valve timing system for the intake, with VVT-i on the exhaust. The VVT-iW system can switch the engine to the Atkinson cycle, which reduces pumping losses by delayed closing of the intake valves. The bottom line: it goes fast but sips gas. Output is outstanding, with 301 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 267 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 rpm.
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