Toyota Camry: 4 Reasons To Choose It Over Mercedes-Benz And Audi Luxury Sedans

Toyota recently introduced the ninth generation of the Camry in India, bringing in a fresh look, revamped cabin, modern-day features, and updated strong hybrid powertrain. Notably, it comes with a price tag of Rs 48 lakh (ex-showroom) – costlier by Rs 1.83 lakh over its predecessor. In India, it competes not only against the Skoda Superb but also some entry-level luxury sedans, such as the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine and the Audi A4. It is worth noting that the on-sale Superb is a previous-generation model, while the new-gen Superb is set to arrive in 2025. Similarly, the Audi A4 is now the new A5 in international markets. Here is the real deal: we will show you why the new Toyota Camry deserves your attention over the A4, A-Class, and even the Superb.

Fresh Looks

The ninth generation Camry features a fresh design language that aligns with the brand’s latest models. A keen observer would notice a strong resemblance between its shark-face-inspired front end and new Prius, the Crown Signia, and the bZ4X.

We believe the overall design of the Camry is elegant but also bears a touch of sportiness thanks to the sharp cuts and creases throughout the body. What enhances its striking appearance are the low-slung stance and sloping, lowered roofline. Plus, the new 18-inch alloy wheels complement the overall design.

In comparison, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, which received a model-year update in May this year appears more conservative and compact. While the facelift adds a sportier touch, it lags behind the Camry in terms of boldness. Although the on-sale Superb looks sophisticated sedan with its typical Skoda fascia, it lacks the modern and upmarket styling the Camry offers. It is also worth mentioning that the Superb currently sold in India is an older model, while the new-gen Superb is already avalable in some international markets.

Lastly, the A4, though premium in appearance, lacks the charisma, dynamic stance, and sporty fascia of the Camry. Overall, the new Camry has an edge over its competitors in exterior design.

Best Rear-seat Experience

We recently drove the new Camry and one of its stand out highlights is the rear-seat space. In fact, it offers the best rear-seat space and comfort compared to its competitors, such as the A-Class, A4, and even the Superb. Not only is the legroom ample but even passengers as tall as 6 feet will find no issue with headroom. Not to mention the touchscreen fitted integrated into the rear armrest, allowing passengers to control the rear zone AC, seat recline angle, and rear windshield blind. The Camry also boasts a boss mode – a switch that lets the rear-seat passenger electronically adjust the front seat for more legroom.

While the spacious rear seat of the Camry is a significant advantage, it highlights a downside for the A-Class and A4. Although these are entry-level sedans, in markets, such as India, rear-seat comfort and space can often be deal-breakers. That said, the Superb excels in this area, offering generous rear-seat space. Additionally, the Superb’s rear headrests feature detachable head supports for added comfort, ensuring passengers’ heads stay in place.

An Efficient And Smooth Hybrid Powertrain

The Camry comes powered by a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with a small battery pack and an electric motor. The combined output of the strong hybrid system stands at 230 PS, while the engine solely makes 187 PS and 221 Nm. Not only that, the Camry can also be driven on an EV-only mode for several kilometres. One of the highlights of this powertrain is the fuel efficiency (claimed to be 25.49 kmpl), which is more economical than the A-Class, A4, and Superb.

The A-Class facelift is powered by a 1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 163 PS and 270 Nm and a 2-litre 4-cyliner diesel motor that delivers 150 PS and 320 Nm. Whereas, the Superb gets a 2-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol unit that generates 190 PS and 320 Nm. The A4, on the other hand, comes powered by a 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 204 PS and 320 Nm.

Value-for-money

The new Toyota Camry offers a wealth of features, a superior safety package, and an efficient strong hybrid powertrain at an economical price, making it a strong value-for-money proposition. The Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine costs Rs 46.05 lakh to Rs 48.55 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Audi A4 is priced at Rs 46.02 lakh to Rs 54.58 lakh (ex-showroom). The Skoda Superb comes with a price tag of a whopping Rs 54 lakh (ex-showroom). Given the prices of their range-topping trim levels, the new Camry undercuts all of them while offering a package that is well worth considering. Althought the A-Class’ prices overlap it is much smaller in size than the Camry.