THE NEMESIS
Toyota Motor Thailand has recently updated the Camry Hybrid with more features for model year 2016.
As well, its prices have been adjusted to go into direct contention with the Honda Accord Hybrid costing an identical 1.659-1.849 million baht.
Unlike the Accord Hybrid which has seen some small technical changes during its midlife revision, the Camry Hybrid remains exactly the same ever since it was renewed in its current generation.
The Camry Hybrid uses a 2.5-litre petrol-electric drivetrain but via a more dated nickel metal-hydride battery pack. The combined output is rated at 205hp, fuel economy at 17.9kpl and CO2 emissions at 133g/ km.
Because the Accord Hybrid spews out less than 100g/km, it can attract 10% excise tax. The Camry Hybrid, meanwhile, has to be content with 20%.
In spite of that 10% disadvantage, Toyota has managed to level prices with Honda. Furthermore, the Camry Hybrid wins the passive safety race with a total of 10 airbags in the cabin.
This could either point to the lower development costs of the Camry Hybrid or Toyota’s decision to enjoy less profit margin. The rangetopper cost 1.899 million baht last year when it was able to attract 10% under old excise rules. So instead of becoming more expensive this year (due to a 10% hike), it has become cheaper — and better equipped.
A Honda executive said at last week’s driving trials: “The car has been received well by our buyers. It also appears that our rival has acknowledged our success with the Accord Hybrid.”