Toyota Camry hybrid comes to China

The new Toyota Camry hybrid made its official Chinese market debut in Guangzhou, Guangdong Monday, auto.qq.com reported. The car will be sold by Guangqi Toyota, and is priced between 319,800 and 364,800 yuan ($50,734-$57,872), the same as its predecessor.

The Camry HEV is the most recent variation of the seventh generation Camry to be available in China. The HEV is one of the three models available in the country, sold alongside the standard edition and SE variant. From the outside, there appears to be no major differences from the standard Camry aside from the Toyota logo being emblazoned in blue and the addition of HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive) lettering on the rear. However, things change when looking under the hood.

The HEV is powered by a combination of a 2.5 L Atkinson cycle engine, an electric motor and a nickel metal hydride battery pack. The gas engine has a maximum output of 160 hp and can make up to 213 Nm of torque, while the electric motor can produce up to 142 hp and 270 Nm of torque. When operated in pure electric mode, the HEV can be driven for up to three kilometers. According to official specifications, the Camry boasts a 100 km fuel consumption rate of 5.3 L.

The Camry HEV also comes equipped with the Blind Spot Monitor, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Pre-Collision System and other safety systems.

This time around, Guangqi Toyota is employing Lexus' aftermarket strategy, offering a five year or 200,000 km warranty for the battery pack.