Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Toyota Camry

Today's Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency needs no introduction. Everyone is familiar with the Toyota Camry. It's one of the best selling vehicles in the U.S. In the last few months, I've had two friends become proud Camry owners. Both say they based their purchases on the Camry's long lasting reputation of reliability and value. The Camry's stellar fuel efficiency also won them over. We'll go into that a bit later.

The popular four-door mid size sedan is available in four trims: base Camry (starting at $18,920), LE, SE (sport version), and top of the line XLE. Checkered Flag Toyota's Bernard Turner, a sales consultant, shared a few minutes of his time to show me an LE model that's on display in the showroom. 

The base model has a 2.4-liter inline 4 cylinder engine (158 horsepower, 161 pound-feet of torque). All other trim models have a 3.5-liter V6 (268 hp, 248 lb-ft). Transmission choices include five-speed manual or five-speed automatic for the 4-cylinder engine, and six-speed automatic for the V6.

So back to fuel efficiency. The Camry gets 31 highway miles and 21 in the city. Its 18 gallon tank gets 560 highway miles with one fill up. Bernard gave me the scoop behind the Camry's great mpg numbers. He says that Camry engines have Variable Valve Timing (VVT). Basically VVT allows the engine and transmission to communicate with one another, resulting in the great fuel economy. It also helps the vehicle adjust to driving style and terrain, which means less wear and tear on the engine.

The comfortable and spacious 5-passenger interior is also a highlight. I hopped in the back and the Camry has  tons of space to keep three rear passengers happy. Bernard also pointed out the lowered floor hump that offers the middle-seat passenger additional leg room.

Standard features include: Multi-function remote keyless entry system with lock; Tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio controls; Multi-adjustable power driver's seat; and an AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, auxiliary audio jack, six speakers and in-glass antenna. Visit here for the full list.

Safety wise, the Camry gets a protective system of airbags (Driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System; Driver and front passenger front seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain; Driver's knee airbag), front and rear crumple zones and side-impact door beams; Direct Tire Pressure Monitor System; and more. 

If you're interested in finding out more about the Camry, visit Checkered Flag Toyota at 5301 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.