The Toyota Camry has long been the backbone of Australian fleets, thanks to its reliability, efficiency, and comfort. While the SUV boom has overshadowed the humble sedan, the 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a compelling argument for why four-door sedans still deserve a place in the market. With a fresh design, improved hybrid powertrain, and a premium feel, the latest Camry is a comfortable, quiet, and efficient alternative to SUVs.
A Hybrid Powertrain That Finally Feels Seamless
The 2024 Camry Hybrid is powered by Toyota’s latest 2.5L Dual VVT-i petrol engine paired with the Toyota Hybrid Electric System. This setup produces a combined 170kW, delivered through an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). The power delivery is impressively smooth, eliminating the rubber-band feel that older hybrid powertrains sometimes suffered from.
Driving through Melbourne’s traffic and out onto the open road, the new Camry felt refined and composed. Unlike some earlier Toyota hybrids where the transition between petrol and electric power was noticeable, this new system is practically seamless. The car quietly and efficiently balances power sources without the driver needing to think about it. This refinement makes the driving experience much more enjoyable—perfect for fleets with drivers who spend hours on the road.
Real-World Fuel Economy: What to Expect
Toyota claims a fuel consumption of just 4.0L/100km in lab conditions, but in real-world testing, the Camry averaged around 5.0L/100km over 500km of mixed driving in city traffic, highways, and suburban roads. Long freeway drives saw the economy dip slightly lower, but for a sedan of this size, that’s still impressive.
For fleet managers, this means cost savings over the long run, particularly for organisations running vehicles over high kilometre ranges. Compared to traditional petrol sedans, the Camry Hybrid delivers significantly lower fuel costs and emissions—critical for businesses looking to meet sustainability targets.
Comfort That Rivals Luxury Sedans
One of the biggest surprises with the new Camry is its comfort. The leather-accented seats (faux leather in some trims) are plush and supportive, making long drives feel effortless. The lumbar support and various adjustment settings ensure that even after hours behind the wheel, there’s no discomfort—something that fleet drivers will appreciate.
Noise insulation has also been improved. The Camry is whisper-quiet at freeway speeds, with minimal wind and tyre noise. The Bridgestone tyres on 18-inch wheels provide a smooth ride without excessive road noise, contributing to a premium driving experience. Unlike some hybrids that can feel underpowered when accelerating onto a freeway, the Camry delivers power in a way that feels natural and confident.
Practicality and Interior Features
For those used to older Camrys, one of the biggest improvements in the new model is the lack of battery intrusion in the boot. Older hybrid models sacrificed boot space to accommodate battery packs, but Toyota has solved that issue, offering a generous 524L of cargo space.
The 12.3-inch infotainment system (in higher grades) is a welcome update, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. The dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, and premium finishes add to the premium feel, making the Camry feel more upmarket than ever before.
Styling: A Fresh Look for 2024
Let’s be honest—sedans aren’t exactly flying out of dealerships anymore. SUVs dominate the Australian market, but Toyota has done a great job making the new Camry look sharp and modern. The redesigned front and rear styling gives it a more aggressive stance, making it more appealing to buyers who still want a stylish alternative to an SUV.
One interesting change is Toyota’s new hybrid badging. Instead of relying solely on its Hybrid Synergy Drive branding, the company has adopted the industry-standard HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) badge. This aligns Toyota’s hybrids with global terminology used across all brands, reflecting how hybrids have moved from niche to mainstream.
Pricing: What You’ll Pay
The Camry Hybrid SL, the top-spec variant, is priced at just under $60,000 drive-away, while the base model Ascent comes in at just under $45,000 drive-away. These are retail prices, so fleet buyers might be able to negotiate additional discounts, making the Camry even better value for organisations purchasing multiple units.
Who Should Buy the 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid?
The Camry Hybrid is not for everyone, but it excels in certain situations:
1) Fleet Buyers Who Need Efficiency & Comfort
If your drivers are doing long-distance travel, need fuel efficiency, and value a comfortable, quiet ride, the Camry is a no-brainer. For fleets that don’t need SUVs for off-road capability or extra ground clearance, this sedan delivers better fuel economy and lower whole-of-life costs than many comparable SUVs.
2) Private Buyers Who Value Reliability & Practicality
For those looking for a comfortable, practical, and low-cost-to-run sedan, the Camry Hybrid is hard to beat. It’s particularly suited to retirees or professionals who want a reliable, no-fuss car that’s easy to drive and park but still comfortable for longer trips.
3) Drivers Who Want an Alternative to SUVs
SUVs may dominate the market, but they aren’t for everyone. If you prefer the driving dynamics of a sedan, want a car that’s easier to get in and out of, and value a lower centre of gravity for better handling, the Camry is worth considering.
Final Verdict: A Solid Choice in a Shrinking Segment
The 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid proves that sedans still have a place in Australia’s car market. While SUVs may dominate sales, the Camry offers a fuel-efficient, comfortable, and well-equipped alternative. For fleets, it remains a practical, cost-effective option that delivers long-term value.
Even for private buyers, the Camry Hybrid punches above its weight in comfort, refinement, and efficiency. It may not be the flashiest choice, but it’s one of the smartest—especially if you want a car that’s reliable, easy to live with, and cost-effective to run.
Pros:
✅ Seamless hybrid powertrain – no more noisy transitions between petrol and electric
✅ Excellent real-world fuel economy – ~5.0L/100km even in mixed conditions
✅ Supremely comfortable interior – perfect for long drives
✅ Quiet and refined driving experience – almost luxury-like feel
✅ Good boot space with no battery intrusion
Cons:
❌ Sedan body style may not appeal to all buyers
❌ No AWD option for those in rural areas
❌ Higher trims push pricing closer to luxury car territory
The Camry Hybrid may not be the flashiest car on the market, but it remains one of the smartest choices for fleets and private buyers looking for a balance of efficiency, comfort, and reliability. If you’re looking for a practical car that will stand the test of time, the 2024 Camry Hybrid is one of the best options available.
