Toyota announces updates for 2021 Camry and Avalon

KUALA LUMPUR: While automakers like Ford and Chevrolet have no single sedan in their lineup in the US market, Toyota announces updates for two of its gems - the 2021 Camry and 2021 Avalon. It looks like the Japanese automaker is optimistic about the segment.

Starting with the 2021 Camry, on the outside, the sedan features several updates that separate the LE and XLE trims from their sporty-looking siblings SE and XSE. The LE and XLE, get 17-inch and 18-inch wheels, respectively. Also, both get a more defined front bumper. As for the SE and XSE models, they feature a new honeycomb grille and redesigned front bumper.

Back in the lineup is Camry TRD. On the performance front, it remains unchanged; however, from the exterior colour palette, the striking red has been replaced with Ice Edge. Features like rear-cross traffic alert and Blind spot monitoring are included in TRD’s standard specs list and remain optional in LE, SE, and SE Nightshade.

On the powertrain front, most Camry variants are powered by a 2.5-litre 4-CYL engine that makes 206 hp and 252 Nm. On the other hand, the beefier trims get a 3.5-litre V6 producing 301 hp and 362 Nm. Both these mills are coupled with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The hybrid trim consists of a 2.5-litre Dynamic Force 4-CYL mill paired with an electric motor. The combined output figures are 208 PS and 220 Nm. This mill and motor combo are paired with a CVT with six-simulated gear ratios for manual mode (eCVT).

Every single trim of 2021 Camry benefits from Android Auto and the latest version of the company’s safety suite, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+.

As for the 2021 Avalon, it gains a new Nightshade Edition (based on XSE trim) that features all things black, including grilles, mirror caps, window trims, rear spoiler, shark fin antenna, and door handles. The car now stands on new black-painted 19-inch alloy wheels.

One of the most significant additions in 2021 Avalon is the inclusion of an all-wheel drive system that promises “effective traction for inclement and slippery weather.” The AWD system models are powered by a 208 PS 2.5-litre 4-CYL mill connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Avalon TRD trim is a performance-oriented version powered by a 3.5-litre V6 unit making 301 hp and 362 Nm. It gets a cat-black dual exhaust system, beefier brakes, lower sport-tuned suspension, rear diffuser, front spoiler, and sportier side skirts.

The new Avalon Hybrid now gets a modern lithium-ion battery in place of the nickel-metal hybrid unit. The power here is sourced by a 2.5-litre 4-CYL engine and two electric motors with a combined 215 hp output. It gains a pedestrian alert system that makes a sound at low speed.

Rounding out the other 2021 Avalon changes include updated upholstery, Android Auto, revised colour palette, and USB-C power ports.

Also Read: Toyota introduces new safety tech for the Japanese market