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Toyota Camry Hybrid: Big Fuel Savings

April 9, 2020 by admin 6 Comments

Sporty and effienct: 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE.


Hybrid models have evolved over the years. The first models were bulbous vehicles designed to minimize airflow and maximize fuel economy. Indeed, the Toyota Prius and first-generation Honda Insight were perhaps the best representations of what gas-electric hybridization could do.

Along the way, industry leader Toyota applied its “hybrid synergy drivetrain” technology (currently known as Toyota Hybrid System or THS-II) to more models, while avoiding many of the styling idiosyncrasies peculiar to them, including overt grille shutters, integrated side mirrors, and aerodynamically designed wheels. Although aerodynamic features are in place and remain important, they’re typically part of the entire model line, not just the hybrid.


2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid Review


The 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid is an excellent example of a gas-electric model that looks a lot like its standard version. Badging differentiation is the most significant differentiator between the two, otherwise, they’re nearly identical. Released in 2018, the current-generation Camry family remains a front-wheel-drive midsize sedan with room for five. Toyota offers the Camry Hybrid in LE ($28,430), SE ($30,130), and XLE ($32,730) trims. Add $945 for the destination charge.



Exterior

The Camry Hybrid offers a sporty design with a small upper grille and a large lower intake. Narrow headlights, distinct LED accent lighting, sweeping character lines, pronounced body sculpting, a floating roof, and a notched rear end are a few of this model’s design highlights.

Among the standard features are 16-inch steel wheels, LED lighting, and a single exhaust system. The SE adds a sport mesh insert to the grille, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and a single exhaust with two outlets. Choose the XLE and this trim has chrome embellishments, heated side mirrors, and a bright metallic grille.

Interior

The Camry offers a roomy interior with space for five adults. The front seating area supplies excellent legroom, but not at the expense of the rear seat. Indeed, we found the rear split-folding seat offers some of the best legroom for any sedan, even some larger models. That said, the sloping rear roof means you must tilt your head down to avoid hitting the door frame while entering. The trunk measures 15.1 cubic feet and that’s average for the segment.

Among the standard features are full power accessories, dual-zone climate control, cloth seats, wood trim, and soft-touch materials. The list of upgrades includes NuLuxe (imitation leather) and real leather seats, power front seats, heated front seats, a power tilt and slide moon roof, an automatic dimming rearview mirror, and adjustable rear headrests.




Tech

Toyota equips the Camry Hybrid with a six-speaker audio system and a 7-inch touch-screen display. This model also has Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, Amazon Alexa, USB input and chargers, and satellite radio.

The XLE trim features an 8-inch touch-screen display. Toyota adds HD Radio, a CD player, and wireless technology. Also available is a 9-speaker audio system, a color head-up display, additional charge ports, and navigation.

Safety

Toyota gets it right in terms of safety features. All models come with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P). This package includes automatic high beams, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control. The top-trim XLE comes with blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert.

The available Driver Assist Package with the XLE trim includes adaptive headlights with automatic leveling. It also includes a bird’s eye view camera and rear cross-traffic braking.



Performance

The Toyota Camry Hybrid is all about fuel savings, but don’t poo-poo its performance numbers. Indeed, it shares the same four-cylinder engine as the base model, although it’s tuned to deliver 176 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque (compared to the 203 hp and 184 lb.-ft. for the standard Camry).

Under full throttle, however, the hybrid reaches its top performance, as the electric motor and engine combine to deliver 208 horsepower. Power routes to the front wheels utilizing a continuously variable transmission. On the other hand, the gas model shifts power to the same wheels with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A second electric motor helps replenish the hybrid battery.

Toyota’s hybrid technology has advanced over the past two decades and it shows. The system is more efficient and they’ve squeezed additional power out of them. If you thought hybrids were laggards in performance at the expense of fuel economy, you’ll be happy to know that’s not the case. Indeed, the EPA rates the base model at a stunning 51 mpg city, 53 mpg highway, for a combined 52 mpg. Choose the SE or XLE trims and the numbers are 44/47/46 mpg city/highway/combined.


See Also — High Efficiency: Hyundai Sonata Hybrid


We spent the week driving the Camry Hybrid chiefly on back roads and county lanes, with highway speeds the norm. A hard press of the accelerator and the sedan lights up. By no means is this a performance vehicle as the steering is light, handling is choppy at times, and cornering matches what you’d expect from any sizable front-wheel-drive car.

But we were thrilled to earn 43.3 mpg while covering 250 miles, knowing also that we had idled the car for several minutes here and there to enjoy the cooling air conditioner on one unseasonably warm March afternoon. We operated the hybrid in the eco mode most times but shifted to sport on occasion to see how it behaved. We didn’t notice much of a difference, so normal or eco mode should do. A fourth mode, EV, is useful for cruising parking lots as you look for an empty space.

In all, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is just as powerful as nearly any naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine in its class. That it delivers a combined fuel economy edge of at least 15 mpg is something to keep in mind when considering this sedan.



Competitive Set

The number of hybrid variants available in the midsize sedan arena continues to shrink as manufacturers abandon the segment. For instance, the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the standard model are gone and likely the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid will soon follow. Also, you can no longer purchase a Nissan Altima Hybrid.

As for the remaining models, you’ll find the Honda Insight, Honda Accord Hybrid, Kia Optima Hybrid, and the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.


Our Recommendation


We think the Camry Hybrid in any form is a terrific choice. The standard LE has the fuel economy edge, but you’re limited by the number of upgrades you can choose. Indeed, this trim along with the SE, do not offer packages. The XLE supplies both the navigation/moonroof package ($2,670) and the driver-assist package ($5,460), which builds on the first.

All told, a fully loaded Camry Hybrid may cost you just over $39,000 and that’s within the range of comparably equipped standard midsize models.



2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid Specifications


Toyota 2020 Camry Hybrid
Segment Midsize Hybrid Sedan
Price Range $28,430 to $32,730
Destination Charge $945
Standard Engine 2.5-liter, inline-four
Transmission Continuously variable
Horsepower 176 @ 5,700 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 163 @ 5,200 RPMs
Seating 2+3
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,472 to 3,572
Wheelbase (inches) 111.2
Length (inches) 192.1 or 192.7
Width (inches) 72.4
Height (inches) 56.9
Head room (f,r — inches) 38.3, 37.6
Leg room (f,r — inches) 42.1, 38.0
Shoulder room (f,r — inches) 57.7, 55.7
Hip room (f,r — inches) 55.4, 54.6
Storage (cubic feet) 15.1
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 13.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) 51/53/52 (LE); 44/47/46 (others)
Manufacturing Plant Georgetown, Kentucky

See Also — All-New 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid Tops 50 MPG

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, front-wheel drive, Midsize Sedan, NuLuxe, Toyota, Toyota Camry, TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID, TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE

Little Car, Big Value: 2018 Hyundai Accent

May 8, 2018 by admin 5 Comments

Entry-level Hyundai Accent is new and impressive.

2018 Hyundai Accent
The 2018 Hyundai Accent is an all-new subcompact sedan.
Available in three trims, a fully loaded model can be had for under $20,000.

If “entry level” represents the 2018 Hyundai Accent, then you find yourself in a laudable position. Hyundai’s smallest model has always had its accent on value, but its latest version is handsome, nimble and supplies a quiet cabin.

The Hyundai Accent remains one of the few new models you can buy for about $15,000 with a well-equipped Limited coming in at just under $20,000. Now in its 24th year and launching its fifth generation, the latest model comes as a five-door sedan only. Canada and Mexico continue to enjoy a five-door hatchback too.

2018 Hyundai Accent Overview

The 2018 Accent is a front-wheel drive, subcompact model with room for five. It is available in three trims: SE, SEL and Limited. My test model was the Accent Limited with a final price of $19,905.

Hyundai is always aggressive with its retail cash and/or financing offer. We have not seen a lease on the Accent in about a year — my recommendation is to buy one. If you must finance, you will likely acquire the title within five years. That leaves another five years of Hyundai’s powertrain warranty to keep you covered.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Hyundai Accent by the Trim

Customarily, I review models as a whole, leaning heavily on the trim presented to me. That almost always means the top trim, which also means you do not always have an accurate picture of the models available.

So, instead, we will break things down by trim and include pricing information. However, we do not include the $885 destination fee or taxes, tags, insurance or other expenses. As for discounts and other specials, you will need to head over to the Hyundai retail site for the current details.

Accent SE ($14,995)

All 2018 Accent models come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque. Hyundai pairs this engine with a six-speed manual transmission. If you prefer the six-speed automatic standard elsewhere, add $1,000 to your price.

Standard exterior equipment includes power side mirrors and 15-inch steel wheels. Inside, you will find power windows, power door locks, a tilt steering column, air conditioning, cloth seats and a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat.

Tech features include a 5-inch color display, a four-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and USB and auxiliary audio ports. Among the safety highlights you will find a rearview camera with dynamic parking guidelines.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Accent SEL ($17,295)

As is usually the case, moving away from the base model brings with it important benefits. Typically, this is where we recommend shoppers start their search as there are multiple amenities not available elsewhere offered there.

To begin, the Accent SEL comes with automatic headlights and puts disc brakes at all four corners. You will also find heated side mirrors and 15-inch alloy wheels. Inside, Hyundai adds a center console with a sliding cover and includes a front passenger seatback pocket.

Among the tech items, there is a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio. Hyundai also brings in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rear USB charging port and a seven-inch color display. The Android and Apply smartphone features are a big deal for many drivers.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Accent Limited ($18,895)

The Accent Limited is the model that seems most like the Sonata, Hyundai’s popular midsize sedan. In fact, if you called it a “Baby Sonata” you would not be too off the mark. This model has chrome touches on the grille and beltline molding and LED daytime running lights and LED tail lamps.

Further, Hyundai includes projector headlights, front fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels and a power moonroof. Inside, Hyundai supplies a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated front seats, automatic temperature control and an information display.

On the tech front you will find a proximity key with push-button start (the car senses your presence and unlocks the driver’s door), a hands-free trunk and the Blue Link connected car system. Here, you get a three-year complimentary Blue Link subscription, what provides such features as remote engine start (not on the manual), in-car maintenance scheduling, remote lock and unlock and car finder. It works with your iPhone, Apple Watch, Amazon Alexa, Android, Google Assistant and smartwatches powered with Wear OS by Google.

The Accent Limited also supplies forward collision-avoidance assist, not available on the other trims.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Packages and Accessories

What you won’t find with with any Hyundai Accent are packages as everything comes built into the respective trim.

On the other hand, you can opt for dealer-installed accessories, including a cargo tray ($80), mudguards ($115) and carpeted floor mats ($125). The Accent’s appeal is for budget-minded owners and it succeeds in that endeavor.

On the Road: 2018 Hyundai Accent

Regardless of trim, all models have a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine. With an output of 130 horsepower, you will enjoy considerably more horsepower than what similar-sized engines produced just a generation ago. Hyundai uses gasoline direct injection, delivering gasoline directly into the combustion chamber of each cylinder.

The technology means your Accent moves faster and burns less gas, although we noticed the engine is loud under hard acceleration. And as for efficiency, we’ve seen larger engines in bigger cars return a higher number than the 38 mpg highway for the Accent.

Although we cannot count on the workings of the manual, we can do with the automatic. The automated gearbox is best operated in drive mode where the shift pattern is cleaner. Yes, we noticed the Accent’s transmission has a tendency to stretch out gear shifts longer than what we like and at times hunt around for the right gear under full throttle.

Steering is light and loose feeling, not exactly supplying certainty or clarity on the road. Working in the Accent’s favor is its size, which makes it easy to enter and leave tight spaces. The Accent won’t win plaudits for ride comfort, particularly on washboard surfaces. At least you’ll know which portions of the road to notify the DOT of needed repairs. The front seats are supportive with ample head and leg room. Rear seat access is tight, but once you’re seated that space easily rivals some midsize cars. Just don’t expect to seat three adults, even in a pinch.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Hyundai Accent Parting Thoughts

The Hyundai Accent is the attainable car for consumers who might also consider a late-model used car. That said, if you are in a favorable financial position, then the Accent Limited is the best choice, simply for its many amenities.

Hyundai remains strong in the car space, even as some competing manufacturers pull back or limit their offers. Not only will you find the compact Elantra and midsize Sonata sedans, but a line of compact electrified vehicles under the Ioniq umbrella. This spring, the Veloster Coupe returns after a one-year absence, bringing with it a turbo and the first expression of the brand’s “N” performance line.

Finally, always seeming to work in the Hyundai scheme of things is its class-leading warranties. From its fully transferable new car warranty to its lengthy powertrain warranty and onto its roadside assistance plan, Hyundai offers maximum protection combined with a minimum price. That represents value with a capital V.

2018 Hyundai Accent

2018 Hyundai Accent Specifications

Hyundai 2018 Accent
Segment Subcompact sedan
Base Sticker Price $14,995 ( plus $885 destination charge)
Price as tested $19,905
Standard Engine 1.6-liter, inline-four
Horsepower 130 @ 6,000 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 119 @ 4,850 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed manual or automatic
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,439 to 3,638
Wheelbase (inches) 101.6
Length (inches) 172.6
Width (inches) 68.1
Height (inches) 57.1
Head room (f,r…inches) 38.9; 37.3
Leg room (f,r…inches) 42.1, 33.5
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 54.2, 53.7
Hip room (f,r…inches) 51.7, 50.8
Storage (cubic feet) 13.7
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 3,439 to 3,638
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) 937 to 979
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 11.9
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 28/37 (manual); 28/38 (automatic)
Manufacturing Plant Ulsan, Korea

See Also — Hyundai Kona: New B-Segment SUV

2018 Hyundai Accent photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2018 cars, Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Apple Watch, BLUE LINK, front-wheel drive, Google Assistant, Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Ioniq, Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Veloster, sedan, subcompact car

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