The Toyota Camry Hybrid is not short of rivals, and at $34,990 the entry-level Hybrid H specification tested here competes most closely with the Ford Mondeo LX ($31,490), Hyundai i40 Active ($31,990), Subaru Liberty 2.5i ($32,990), Mazda 6 Sport ($33,460), Honda Accord VTi-S ($33,490), and the Altima ST-L ($35,890).
Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels (with a full-size steel spare), auto headlights, cruise control, and a six-speaker audio system with AUX/USB inputs and Bluetooth phone connectivity with audio streaming.
Those in the market for an entry-level medium car may look at the Hybrid H’s $4500 premium over the non-hybrid Camry Altise and question the value of the former, though with its more expensive powertrain hardware and additional smart key with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, 6.1-inch central display screen with reversing camera, trip computer with energy flow monitor and Eco drive level display, and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, it presents a compelling case.
Those who want sat-nav need to spend an extra $5500 on the Hybrid HL, however, which also adds a larger screen, digital radio, auto high beam and wipers, an enhanced rear-view camera with guiding lines and reversing sensors, and a 10-speaker JBL premium audio system.
Perhaps the biggest compromise of the Camry Hybrid is its reduced boot space â€" down 94 litres from the regular car to 421L due to the addition of the battery pack behind the rear seats. The boot retains the non-hybrid model’s flat floor; it’s just shorter, and only the ‘60’ section of the 60:40 split rear seats folds forward. Like all Camrys, the Hybrid also has suitcase-crushing gooseneck hinges.
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