2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid

For a few years now, the auto industry has been dramatically shifting toward greener vehicles, particularly hybrids. Right now, Toyota is the clear frontrunner with three different models: the pioneering Prius, the Highlander Hybrid midsize SUV and finally the Camry Hybrid sedan. All of them enjoy strong sales, the Prius more so than the others.

In response to critics who said that hybrids are always considerably more expensive than regular models, the Japanese auto giant made the Prius accessible to a larger number of buyers. Hot on the heels of the successful second-generation Prius, the Camry Hybrid was introduced for the 2007 model year.

This is still the good old Camry as we know it. Aside from the powertrain, the only difference separating the hybrid from the gas-powered model is the pair of light-emitting diode (LED) rear tail lamps. Of course, there are subtle “Hybrid Synergy Drive” badges on the front fenders, but overall, the bodywork is identical, with the same flowing design and timeless appeal that have made its predecessors famous. While visual ties to the Toyota family are striking, no innovative design cue can be found.

Likewise, the interior styling is particularly understated. At night, the ambient lighting is very soothing and the dashboard is pleasant to look at. While ergonomics are beyond reproach, I should mention that the hybrid-exclusive trim on the center stack is nothing more than light green plastic. One thing’s for sure: the Camry is one of the most refined entry-level midsize sedans out there.

The Camry Hybrid is rather comprehensively equipped. Satellite radio and JBL premium audio are included, making the car even more enticing for buyers.

Abundant room awaits front and rear occupants, thereby enhancing their comfort level. Given the size of this car, storage is appropriate. The trunk is very accommodating as it is, although total capacity is significantly reduced by the batteries located behind the rear seatbacks.

The seats are quite comfortable and offer a good though uninspiring driving position. This Camry boasts an ultra-quiet interior due in large part to the hybrid powertrain. When running in full electric mode, you don’t hear a peep from underneath the hood. Even when standing outside, you would never know the car is “ON”.

High-tech
No one can deny Toyota’s accomplishments on the technological front. The company really must be commended for its advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive system, which blends two sources of power: a 147-hp Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine and a high-efficiency electric motor. Together, they deliver the equivalent of 187 horsepower. The combustion engine remains inactive at idle and low cruising speeds.

While this is no racing machine, performance is pretty decent. With 199 pounds-feet of torque on top of that, accelerations are satisfying. Of course, the main goal of Camry Hybrid owners is not to record the fastest times. Rather, they aim to achieve optimum fuel economy — and they won’t be disappointed with a real-world average of 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers.

To maximize efficiency, Toyota engineers mated this hybrid powertrain to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Oftentimes, this type of transmission proves to be odd and noisy. However, with the 2008 Camry Hybrid, it’s actually a great fit. Accelerations and decelerations are extremely smooth, with no power gaps whatsoever. The transition from fully-electric to hybrid mode is also totally seamless.

Toyotas are not known for offering real excitement to drivers and the Camry is no exception. The automaker does not seem to realize that human beings — not robots — sit behind the wheel and that they like to have some fun while driving.

Handling is nicely balanced despite the added weight in the back. Cornering maneuvers are not bad at all, to tell you the truth. Compared to the Prius, the Camry’s brakes are more progressive. The regenerative braking system (which charges the batteries) is a bit present at lower speeds yet totally invisible at higher speeds.

Few worthy rivals
Handling is nicely balanced despite the added weight in the back.While pricier, the Nissan Altima Hybrid ($33,998) offers solid driving dynamics and a slightly more inspiring performance. At General Motors, the Saturn Aura Green Line ($24,240) and the upcoming Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid (about $25,000) are both less expensive than the Camry Hybrid. Of course, we should not overlook the Prius ($29,500), which offers roughly the same interior room though in a different configuration.

Wrap-up
The 2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid looks like any other Camry. However, it targets two specific types of customers: those who merely want to make a green statement and those who wish to save money on fuel. Both will be extremely pleased with this car. True, they will have to pay more upon purchasing the vehicle (when compared to a similarly-equipped gas-powered model) and wait five years until they finally start to save money, but they will significantly reduce their carbon footprint in the process. And you can’t put a price on that.


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