Toyota Camry

• The base 2.5L petrol 4-cylinder produces 201 hp of power and 240Nm of torque, tuned to an 8-speed AT. The tightly spaced gear ratios deliver smooth acceleration. The mileage on everyday KSA roads is around 17.2 km/litre, which makes it solid for a naturally aspirated petrol engine. The hybrid Camry can comfortably travel 1,300+ km on a full tank.

• The hybrid option is where things get interesting. The 2.5L hybrid system with electric motor produces 226 hp of power, has an electronic CVT transmission that is smooth and responsive. The real story is fuel efficiency: 27.7 km/litre officially. That's exceptional, but more realistic is 25-28 km/litre depending on driving conditions. Highway driving can exceed 30 km/litre with steady speeds. The hybrid feels quicker than horsepower numbers suggest because the electric motor provides instant torque at low speeds.

• The Camry measures 4,920 mm in length, 1,840 mm in width, and 1,445 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,820 mm, making it a perfect city car with enough leg room and cabin space for comfort.

• The suspension is tuned for comfort and refinement. It absorbs imperfections smoothly without feeling floaty. Highway stability is excellent even at high speeds. The steering is light but responsive. The overall driving experience feels composed and mature.

• Multiple driving modes are available on hybrids. Eco, Normal and Sport to handle wide terrain across the Kingdom. The EV mode on hybrids allows electric-only driving at low speeds for silent, emission-free operation in congested traffic.

Some observations: 

• The petrol Camry feels adequate but not quick compared to turbocharged competitors. 

• The hybrid feels significantly quicker, but fuel consumption increases if you drive aggressively. At highway speeds above 140 km/h, wind noise becomes noticeable. 

• That's normal for a sedan this size. The suspension, while comfortable, isn't tuned for the cornering sports enthusiasts might enjoy.

• The steering is responsive, and consistent across speed ranges which is good to navigate crowded roads. . At low speeds, it's easy, at highway speeds, it's composed.

• Body control through corners is composed, and the Camry leans as expected for its type and weight. The lean is controlled and predictable. The electronic stability control works effectively in the background.

• The seating position is natural, with excellent visibility. Both front and rear visibility is great. The rear camera and available 360-degree camera eliminate parking concerns, and the cabin is remarkably quiet at speed

• Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist work effectively on higher trims. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking detects objects ahead. The dynamic radar cruise control maintains a distance from vehicles ahead, helping prevent accidents. 

• On smooth highways, the suspension feels supremely comfortable. Small bumps handled well, with a ride that is gliding, not bouncy. Extended drives reveal how well-tuned the suspension is; even after six hours, you feel relaxed, not fatigued, always positive about the Camry. 

Honest observations: 

• The suspension is comfort-tuned for refinement. 

• If you want a sedan that corners like a sports car, the Camry doesn't deliver that. 

• The hybrid E-CVT lacks the mechanical feel of a traditional automatic. 

• Some drivers find this unconventional. There's no turbo. The engine just feels leisurely when pushed hard.

• The touchscreen on the base and LE trims is 8 inches, and top trims get 12.3-inch displays with navigation integration. Both systems support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The graphics are sharp, and navigation integrates smoothly with real-time traffic.

• Seating is exceptional to say the least, with generous legroom. Adults can sit comfortably even on long drives. The front seats are power-adjustable with memory function on higher trims. The seat support is excellent, and heated seats are available on mid-range and higher trims. Ventilated front seats keep you comfortable in Saudi heat.

• Leather upholstery on mid-range and higher trims is premium quality, and also standard leather, and tan-colored premium leather with stitching details on high-end trims.

• Climate control is automatic dual-zone on all trims. The higher trims come with three-zone control with rear vents. The system cools the cabin efficiently even in extreme heat.

• The 483-litre trunk is adequate for luggage and groceries. Split-folding rear seats expand space when needed.

• Storage throughout the cabin is a practical thing that Toyota is good at. There are cupholders, door pockets, and centre console compartments. The head-up display projects speed and navigation onto the windshield and is quite useful.

• The JBL audio system delivers quality sound on the top-end; other trims have standard audio that's adequate, and wireless smartphone charging is available on higher trims.

Overall, the interior of the Camry is impressive, sophisticated and a lot more refined than showy.

• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 on mid-range and higher trims includes: Pre-Collision System that detects vehicles and pedestrians and applies emergency braking, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control that maintains distance from vehicles ahead, Lane Tracing Assist that guides steering within lanes, Lane Departure Alert and prevention, Automatic High Beam that switches between high and low beams, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Safe Exit Assist.

• Eight airbags are standard: dual front, front side, and side curtain. Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners on all seats. ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard.

• ABS with electronic brake-force distribution prevents lockup. Electronic stability control helps prevent skids. Hill-start assist and auto hold are standard. Brake assist works effectively.

• The Head-up display and a 360-degree panoramic camera enhance safety and driving confidence.

• The Camry received Top Safety Pick+ ratings and strong NCAP scores. The structural engineering is proven.