With the announced demise of the Avalon after the 2022 model year, Toyota’s largest sedan offering will be the Camry. The midsize sedan is being updated with a new SE Hybrid Nightshade version equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels finished in black along with an assortment of dark accents. These include the door handles, side mirror caps, badging, window trim, and the shark fin antenna.
At an additional cost, the 2022 Camry SE Hybrid Nightshade can be had with an optional all-wheel drive. Toyota has been expanding its Nightshade offerings in recent years, but it’s only now the hybrid version of the sedan is getting the black treatment. Previously, only the conventionally powered models with FWD and AWD were offered with an elegant look.
Toyota has been offering the Camry Hybrid since 2007 and in its latest iteration combines a four-cylinder, 2.5-liter gasoline engine with a pair of electric motors. The combustion engine is good for 176 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque whereas one of the e-motors generates 118 hp. The second electric motor is used to charge the battery pack. The combined output stands at 208 hp.
Even though the hybrid focuses on efficiency, Toyota claims it delivers the performance of the conventional four-cylinder gas engine. It goes on to say the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission acts as a six-speed auto by mimicking the gear shifts, so you get the best of both worlds.
Practicality is not compromised with the hybrid since the lithium-ion battery is underneath the rear seats, therefore it doesn’t eat into the available space inside the cabin. Some will be surprised to hear there’s even a dedicated Sport mode for quicker throttle response to boost acceleration.
As far as pricing is concerned, the newly added member of the family retails for $29,615, excluding the extra $1,025 for destination and handling fees. Toyota is already taking orders for the entire 2022 Camry lineup.
Source: Toyota
