PLANO, Texas, July 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- 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 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.
All told, the 2021 Camry offers 17 different choices in the
midsize sedan segment today. Those choices include:
- Three V6 grades – XLE, XSE and TRD
- Five 4-cyl. FWD grades – LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade, XSE
- Five 4-cyl. AWD grades - LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade, XSE
- Four hybrid grades – LE, XLE, SE, XSE (new)
The wide array of choices plus Camry's alluring, coupe-inspired
design and renowned Toyota quality and value are reasons why Camry
maintains leadership in the mid-size sedan category. Camry holds
its status as America's favorite midsize sedan for 18 years running
and, as well, is one of the longest-running nameplates in the auto
industry.
Bold New Look Up Front
A new look up front distinguishes the comfort-oriented LE and
XLE grades from the sport-oriented SE and XSE for 2021. A new front
fascia for the Camry LE and XLE grades shows a more defined lower
intake area. The gas version of the LE grade also debuts a new
17-inch alloy wheel design, while the XLE features a redesigned
18-inch alloy wheel. The SE and XSE grades show off a bolder
redesigned lower fascia shape featuring a honeycomb style grille
and side vent inserts, plus new side vent accents.
Accentuating the revised design, the 2021 Camry augments its
exterior paint palette with new Blueprint replacing Blue Streak
Metallic and a new, exclusive color for the Camry TRD, Ice Edge
with a two-tone Midnight Black Metallic roof. The XSE grades now
offer the two-tone Supersonic Red with Midnight Black Metallic roof
combination.
The performance-tuned Camry TRD, which debuted for 2020, keeps
its exclusive, aero-enhanced design. The 2021 Camry TRD now comes
standard with Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, plus
heated exterior mirrors. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic
Alert are now standalone options on LE, SE and SE Nightshade
grades. XSE and XLE grades already have those features as
standard.
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.
Lane Departure Alert is designed to help notify the driver via
steering wheel vibrations or audible alert if it senses the vehicle
is leaving the lane without engaging a turn signal. When DRCC is
set and engaged, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) is designed to assist
the driver by providing a slight steering force to help center the
vehicle in its lane using visible lane markers or a preceding
vehicle.
Additional TSS 2.5+ features include Automatic High Beams, which
detects preceding or oncoming vehicles and automatically switches
between high beam and low beam headlights. Road Sign Assist (RSA),
which is designed to recognize certain road sign information using
a forward-facing camera and display them on the multi-information
display (MID). With DRCC engaged and activated, RSA can also adjust
speed up to the posted speed limit if driving slower or down to the
posted speed limit if driving faster than posted.
Toyota's Rear Seat Reminder will come standard on all 2021
Camrys. The feature notes whether a rear door was opened within 10
minutes of the vehicle being turned on, or at any time after the
vehicle has been turned on, with a reminder message in the
instrument cluster after the engine is turned off, accompanied by
multitone chimes. The 2021 Camry is the second Toyota to feature
Rear Seat Reminder, as it already comes standard on the 2020 Toyota
Highlander.
In addition to the TSS 2.5+ system, to help Camry drivers change
lanes with confidence, Blind Spot Monitor is designed to help
detect and warn you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the
adjacent lanes. Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) can offer added
peace of mind by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either
side while backing out and alerting you with a visual and audible
warning. These features come standard on XLE and XSE grades and are
available on certain LE and SE grades.
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 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.
The transformation to AWD adds just 165 lbs. (LE grade; other
grade weights vary) over FWD versions. The suspension tuning,
wheels, and tires differentiating the Camry model grades carry over
to the AWD versions. That means, for example, the Camry XSE grade
features the same sport-tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels in both
FWD and AWD versions.
All AWD grades offer an optional Cold-Weather Package, which
adds heated seats and mirrors on the LE; heated seats, mirrors and
steering wheel on the SE; and heated steering wheel on the XLE and
XSE, as heated seats and mirrors are already standard on those
grades. All other standard and optional features are shared with
the Camry FWD model grades. For 2021, The Cold Weather Package will
now be a standalone option for FWD and Hybrid grades as well.
Camry TRD: Track-Tuned, Road-Refined
Initially, the "TRD" identifier for Toyota Racing Development
was seen only on off-road toughened Toyota trucks and SUVs. Yet,
TRD has been deeply involved with all facets of Toyota motorsports
for more than 40 years, with a trophy case full from victories in
rallying, IMSA® GTO and GTP® road racing, NASCAR®, and NHRA® Funny
Car racing.
The sophisticated, high-strength TNGA-K platform that underpins
the Camry was like an open invitation for TRD to rev up the sedan's
performance. The result was the first-ever Camry TRD performance
model for 2020, and this road-tamer continues for 2021 with
upgraded standard features, including Blind Spot Monitor with Rear
Cross Traffic Alert. The JBL Premium Audio system is now an option
on Camry TRD just as it is on other grades.
The Camry TRD is equipped exclusively with a direct-injected,
301-horsepower DOHC 3.5-liter V-6 teamed with the Direct-Shift
eight-speed automatic transmission featuring sport mode and paddle
shifters. A specially-tuned TRD cat-back dual exhaust system
conveys a throatier idle and acceleration tone.
The TRD Look + Function
The aerodynamic body kit, which includes a front splitter, side
aero skirts, trunk lid spoiler, and rear diffuser, not only adds a
track-ready look but also improves high speed vehicle stability.
Camry TRD wears a gloss black front grille with a sport mesh insert
and black exterior badging.
Distinctive red pinstriping, red painted brake calipers, red TRD
badging and polished stainless steel TRD exhaust tips complete the
road-hungry look. The 2021 Camry TRD is available in solid Midnight
Black Metallic, or in two-tone schemes featuring new Ice Edge or
Wind Chill Pearl with a Midnight Black Metallic roof.
In the cabin, the TRD treatment outfits the Camry with Black
Sport SofTex®-trimmed front seats with red accents and red-stitched
TRD embroidered headrests. The leather-wrapped steering wheel also
has red stitching, and even the seatbelts are red. A shift knob
with an embossed TRD logo, along with unique TRD floor and trunk
mats, and a unique TRD meter with red-illuminated accents and
multi-information display (MID) start-up animation complete the
cabin upgrades.
TRD Handling Thrills
TRD engineers developed this special Camry's dynamic
characteristics through extensive testing at Toyota Arizona Proving
Ground, TMC Higashi-Fuji Proving Ground (Japan), and MotorSport Ranch (Texas). Chassis enhancements abound, including
thicker underbody braces that increase torsional rigidity.
The TRD-tuned suspension lowers Camry by 0.6 inches for a
reduced center of gravity and more aggressive stance. Stiffer coil
springs and sway bars increase roll stiffness by 44 percent in the
front and 67 percent in the rear. A unique set of TRD shock
absorbers, 19 x 8.5-inch matte-black alloy wheels, and optional
Bridgestone Potenza 235/40R19 summer tires complete a chassis
package that improves body control, handling agility and steering
precision.
The Camry TRD's front brakes are larger with 12.9-inch diameter
rotors and dual-piston calipers, compared to 12.0-inch rotors and
single piston calipers on the Camry XSE grade. Brake performance is
tuned to provide more direct feedback.
Foundation for Agility and Ride Comfort
Extensive use of high-tensile-strength steel in the TNGA-K
platform, along with innovative fastening methods including laser
screw welding and advanced adhesives, give Camry its rock-solid
feeling on the road. Optimally tuned MacPherson strut front
suspension and multi-link rear suspension endow the Camry with a
ride-handling balance befitting luxury vehicles. (SE and XSE grades
have sport-tuned springs and shocks.)
Camry has long been renowned for quietness in its class, and the
current-generation model improved on that by incorporating noise,
vibration and harshness (NVH) countermeasures previously found
exclusively on luxury models. Extensive sound absorbing insulation
includes foam or vibration-dampening materials throughout the
vehicle, along with a thicker dash silencer mat across the entire
firewall section. A special vibration-damping coating is applied
over a wider area of the underfloor, and noise-proofing material
encompasses more surface area under the headliner.
Striking Yet Elegant Cabin
The Camry relays information to the driver via three available
displays. New for 2021, a floating 7- or 9-inch central
touch-screen display, like that of the new-generation Toyota RAV4,
combines audio and navigation. Customizable features and smart
phone-like touch screen icons ensure familiar and convenient
operation.
For even greater functionality, Camry also offers an available
7-inch multi-information display within the instrument cluster.
Available on XLE and XSE, a 10-inch color Head-Up Display (HUD)
projects vital information, including speed and turn-by-turn
navigation directions, onto the lower portion of the
windshield.
The Camry's interior melds functionality, elegant styling, and
impeccable craftsmanship. The dash design gives the driver a sporty
cockpit-type feel while treating both the driver and the front
passenger to expansive outward visibility. A sweeping character
line flows down from the instrument cluster and bisects the center
console waterfall.
Surfaces throughout the cabin employ soft-touch premium
materials. New interior trim for 2021 in all grades gives a
sophisticated, higher-tech look with linear dark, wood inlay or
patterned metal depending on the model grade.
Long-distance seat comfort, a Camry hallmark, has been combined
with ratcheted seat design for 2021. Exquisite stitching on the
front- and rear-seat surfaces, one example of the high level of
craftsmanship, is found throughout the vehicle. New for 2021, the
XLE grade features a luxurious looking textured herringbone seat
pattern. Ventilated front seats are available on the XLE and
XSE.
Interior color choices, depending on exterior color, include
Ash, Macadamia, or Black. The sport-oriented XSE grade also
offers an exclusive Cockpit Red interior for a touch of exotic
sports car flavor.
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 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.
Direct Shift 8-speed Automatic
In all Camry gas grades, both the 2.5-liter engine and the
3.5-liter V-6 are teamed with the Direct Shift eight-speed
automatic transmission that delivers satisfyingly crisp-yet-smooth,
quick-shifting to deliver an exemplary blend of performance and
refinement. Close mid-range ratios improve passing performance,
while the wide range of torque converter lock-up yields for a more
direct driving feel while contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency.
Control logic optimizes precise matching of engine torque on
downshifts for smoother transitions.
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 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.
Toyota Audio
The base Toyota Audio system for 2021 gains a new, dramatic
looking and easy-to-use 7-in. floating touch screen display. The
system features Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay® and Amazon Alexa®
compatibility. The full-featured system includes AM/FM, SiriusXM®
with 3-month All-Access trial, Siri® Eyes Free, hands-free phone
capability, plus advanced voice recognition and music streaming via
Bluetooth® wireless technology.
Higher grades have Toyota Audio Plus with a new 9-in. floating
touch screen display. All audio systems have Connected Services
trials, which include Safety Connect (1-year trial). Most grades
also add Service Connect (10-year trial) and Remote Connect (1-year
trial). In addition, WiFi Connect (3-month up to 2GB trial), allows
up to five mobile devices to connect using 4G LTE.
Audio Plus is also offered with a JBL® 800-watt, 9-speaker
premium audio, which includes a subwoofer. The JBL system is also
part of the top-of-line available Premium Audio with Dynamic
Navigation, which provides over-the-air updates and includes a
3-year trial.
Remote Connect provides remote start and door unlock capability,
vehicle status notifications, a guest driver monitor and vehicle
finder (1-year trial). Available Service Connect can provide
up-to-date vehicle information on fuel level, maintenance alerts,
and more.
Star Safety
All 2021 Camry models have 10 standard airbags and Toyota's Star
Safety System, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control,
Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake
Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop
Technology. All Camrys also come equipped with a standard
backup camera.
Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare
Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies
to all components other than normal wear and maintenance
items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for
60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. On the
Camry Hybrid grades, all HV components are covered under the Hybrid
System Warranty for 8 years/100,000 miles. Additionally, the hybrid
battery warranty is now 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes
first. The Camry also comes standard with ToyotaCare, a plan
covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or
25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside
assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the
U.S. and North America for more
than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable,
next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands.
During that time, Toyota has created a tremendous value chain as
our teams have contributed to world-class design, engineering, and
assembly of more than 38 million cars and trucks in North America, where we have 14 manufacturing
plants, 15 including our joint venture in Alabama (10 in the U.S.), and directly employ
more than 47,000 people (over 36,000 in the U.S.). Our 1,800 North
American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.) sold 2.8 million
cars and trucks (2.4 million in the U.S.) in 2019.
Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights
the way it partners with community, civic, academic and
governmental organizations to address our society's most pressing
mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move,
anything is possible. For more information about Toyota,
visit ToyotaNewsroom.com.
Media Contacts:
Zachary Reed
469-292-3499
zachary.reed@toyota.com
Note to Editors: Photos and b-roll can be found on
ToyotaNewsroom.com
For customer inquiries, please call: 800-331-4331
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