2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid Review

Specifications

Most hybrids mean sacrificing something - space, comfort, performance. However, with the 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid you not only get the third best fuel consumption in a sedan, but you get it is a spacious and comfortable ride that has almost the same performance as its gasoline-fuelled sister.

At 33 mpg in the city and 34 mpg highway, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is exceptional on fuel even in comparison to other hybrids. Averaging 600 miles per tank between fill ups is sweet no matter how you look at it. The 2.4-Liter DOHC 16-valve VVT-i-4-cylinder Hybrid engine packs 147 hp at 6000 rpm and 138 lb.-ft. at 4400 rpm and manages to do 0 to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds, that is a full second faster then the 2.4 Liter conventional engine in the base model Camry.

The Camry Hybrid contributes only minimally to the formation of smog Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (AT-PZE) as it produces extremely low levels of hydrocarbons (HC) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions. The integrated regenerative brakes recapture energy to help charge the batteries and the power-assisted ventilated front and solid rear disc brakes come with an anti-lock braking system (ABS).

The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT) has sequential shift is part of the Hybrid Synergy Drive. This is a drive-by-wire system that has no direct mechanical connection between the engine and engine controls - both the gas pedal and the gearshift lever send only electrical signals to the computer that controls the transmission.

The front suspension has MacPherson struts and gas-filled shock absorbers as well as a stabilizer bar that allows for a smooth handling and the dual-link independent MacPherson struts in the rear continue the luxurious feel of the vehicle.

The 2009 Camry Hybrid comes loaded with several option packages. Standard features include tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control, acoustic noise-reducing front windshield, 60/40 split fold-down rear seat with security locks, adjustable headrests and seatbelt positioning clips and a defroster-linked CFC-free dual zone auto climate control with electric compressor and Plasmaclusterâ„¢ ionizer and rear-seat vents. Added conveniences such as Toyota’s Smart Key System - an advanced computerized system that uses sensors to automatically unlock the doors and start the vehicle without the use of a traditional key make life a little easier.

Safety rating on the Camry Hybrid are all top of its class with features including driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System as well as seat-mounted side airbags with curtain airbags in both the front and rear seats.

Option packages include:

• Moonroof package includes a power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade, dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors and rear personal reading lights
• First upgrade package includes 16-in. 8-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P215/60R16 tires, JBL AM/FM 6-disc in-dash CD changer with satellite radio capability, MP3/WMA playback capability, auxiliary audio jack, hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth®wireless technology, eight speakers in six locations and FM diversity reception, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink®universal transceiver
• Second upgrade package includes DVD Navigationand16-in. 8-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P215/60R16 tires, voice-activated nav system with JBL AM/FM 4-disc in-dash CD changer with satellite radio capability MP3/WMA playback capability, auxiliary audio jack, hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth® wireless technology, eight speakers in six locations and FM diversity reception, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink® universal transceiver
• Comfort and Convenience Package includes heated front seats and outside mirrors
• Leather Package — includes leather-trimmed seats and door trim with integrated armrests, driver and front passenger power seats, and dual front and rear map pockets

The 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid includes all of what is good in a hybrid with none of the bad. A substantial feeling vehicle that is comfortable, reliable, and spacious with responsive handling and a smooth ride that also averages 34 miles to the gallon - how can you go wrong?