Toyota is gearing up for big reveals with the debut of a redesigned Camry sedan and the unveiling of the Crown SUV on November 14. Both vehicles are expected to make their first appearance at the 2023 Los Angeles auto show, which kicks off on November 16.
The teaser photo released by Toyota offers a sneak peek at the new Camry, confirming that it will offer a hybrid powertrain paired with all-wheel drive, a first for the Camry lineup. This option is poised to enhance the vehicle’s performance and appeal to a wider range of consumers. While the teaser doesn’t provide many details, it’s clear that Toyota is pushing the boundaries with the new Camry.
One of the key questions swirling around the new Camry is the configuration of its all-wheel-drive system. Speculation has mounted about whether it will use a conventional setup or be designed as a “through the road” system, employing a gas engine up front and an electric motor at the rear. The “through the road” approach has been implemented in the Crown sedan introduced for 2023, as well as a few other Toyota models, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovative powertrain technology.
The current Camry, introduced for the 2018 model year, came with a new platform and three new powertrains. With this in mind, the upcoming Camry is expected to be more of a substantial update than a complete overhaul. Spy shots of prototypes point to a similar shape for the new model, suggesting that the changes will be focused on refining and enhancing the existing design rather than starting from scratch.
In terms of powertrains, the current Camry offers a 203-hp 2.5-liter inline-4, a 208-hp hybrid with a 2.5-liter inline-4 and an E-CVT, and a 301-hp 3.5-liter V-6. It is speculated that one of the Crown’s hybrid powertrains, utilizing electric motors both front and rear, may be an option for the new Camry. This would align with Toyota’s push towards electrification and sustainable mobility.
Despite changes in consumer preferences and the overall decline in the sedan segment, the Camry has remained a steadfast and popular choice for consumers. With over 295,000 units sold in the U.S. last year, the Camry continues to be one of Toyota’s best-selling models. By offering more versatile and eco-friendly powertrain options, the new Camry is poised to attract even more customers and solidify its position as a top contender in the sedan market.
In addition to the new Camry, Toyota will also be unveiling the Crown SUV on the same date. The Crown SUV, previewed by the Crown Estate concept last year, is set to make a splash in the crossover market. With both the new Camry and the Crown SUV joining the lineup, Toyota is showing its commitment to delivering a diverse range of vehicles to cater to the evolving needs of modern drivers.
Overall, the forthcoming debuts of the new Camry and the Crown SUV signal an exciting new chapter for Toyota, with a focus on advanced powertrain options, innovative technology, and cutting-edge design. Car enthusiasts and industry insiders alike are eagerly anticipating the official reveal of these highly-anticipated models at the 2023 Los Angeles auto show.