2007 Toyota Camry preview

Toyota can’t seem to contain its enthusiasm about the all new Camry. In March, six months ahead of schedule, Toyota is bringing its redesigned 2007 Camry, the mainstay of its lineup, into the market.

With this sixth generation model Toyota has added more detail to the otherwise mild mannered styling, which is not to suggest that the vehicle now boasts a substantial wow factor. Toyota has always chosen to evolve this model from one generation to the next. Given the success Camry enjoys in middle-class America, Toyota clearly feels it is on the right track with this car. The auto maker’s slow and steady approach will surely help to maintain its cult-like following.

Extra standard equipment has been added to the 2007 Camry CE base model, which will come with larger 16 inch wheels, enlarged four-wheel disc brakes, seven airbags and an anti-theft engine immobilizer. Other features include automatic headlights, a tilt/telescope steering wheel and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo with a plug in for your iPod or satellite radio unit. Toyota will offer three other trim levels, the LE, XLE and the new top of the line SE.

The standard engine is the bullet-proof 2.4 litre, four cylinder unit, mated to your choice of five speed standard or five speed automatic transmissions. A new 3.5 litre, 268 hp V6 engine, similar to ones found in the Avalon or Lexus IS350, is an option. The V6 equipped Camry’s will transfer that extra power through a new six speed automatic transmission with adaptive technology.

A Synergy Drive Hybrid Camry model which was also shown in Detroit, at the North American International Auto Show, will also be in dealer showrooms this year.

It only stands to reason that the Camry, North America’s No. 1 selling vehicle for the past four years, is always listed as the perennial target for other manufacturers in the full size family car segment. And that would explain the herd of “suits” foraging through the few Camry’s on display, photographing minute details and taking reams of notes. The absence of media credentials suggested these note takers were likely engineers from rival manufacturers taking note of where the competitive bar now rests.