Toyota launches new Camry Atara R version

...the Camry Atara R.

Based on the Camry Altise, it adds more than $3000 worth of equipment and features, many of which were only previously available in the more expensive Atara models.

Obviously aimed at tackling the soon to be released all-new Mazda6, the Camry Atara R has a sportier look than the standard Camry thanks to the use of a front sports bumper and grille, sports side skirts and a dual exhaust diffuser. It has 17-inch alloy wheels in place of the 16-inch, as well as front foglamps. Special-edition badges let others know you’re not in just any Toyota Camry.

Inside, the Camry Atara R has a premium three-spoke steering wheel with audio controls, a 6.1-inch screen display audio and reversing camera with fixed guidelines. It features a trip computer and eco indicator, and six-speaker audio including auxiliary and USB input with iPod connectivity.

Camry Atara R special edition is offered in a choice of exterior colours: Diamond White, Silver Pearl, Graphite, Eclipse Black, Wildfire, Magnetic Bronze, and Reflex Blue. This Camry is well equipped in the safety field, with seven airbags, vehicle stability control and traction control.

All versions of the Toyota Camry were tailored to suit Australian driving conditions and the tastes of Aussie drivers from very early in the design stage. The windscreen pillars have been slimmed down and no longer hinder the front-three-quarter vision to the extent they did before.

The front seats are spacious and provide good support. There’s plenty of knee-room and head space is better than average for this class. Seating is set up to provide good width for two occupants in back seats that are semi-individual in their shaping. The area between them is left for occasional use by adults or a child seat.

An all-new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine was developed for the latest Toyota Camry prior to its 2011 introduction. It’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission for the first time. This powertrain provides strong torque across a wide range and fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by around 10 per cent from those of previous models.

Toyota Camry is generally smooth and quiet, though rough roads may result in a firmer ride than some owners will like. As always, check for yourself by road testing a car before buying. Camry Atara R special edition is priced at a very reasonable $31,820, plus on-road costs.

Toyota Camry has the impressive record of being the number one seller in its segment in Australia for the past 18 years. This latest special edition seems sure to help it continue to remain in front for a long time to come.