The first market to welcome the new 2024 Toyota Camry is the United States, as the model goes on sale there today. Pricing is finally announced for the market too; with the range starting from USD 24,800 (~ RM 118,457), it is about USD 400 (~ RM 1,900) cheaper than its predecessor.

In full, here's the base prices of the Toyota Camry in the USA:

• LE - USD 24,800 (~RM 118k)
• SE - USD 30,700 (~RM 146k)
• XLE - USD 33,400 (~RM 160k)
• XSE - USD 34,600 (~RM 166k)

Hybrid-only, new look, TSS 3.0

The highlight of the ninth-gen Camry is its new, hybrid-only powertrain: every variant comes with the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5) that's mated to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine. Front wheel drive versions make a combined 225 PS.

For the first time on a Camry Hybrid, there's also the optional Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for all variants. This adds a rear motor, and bumps total power output to 232 PS, 30 PS more than what the outgoing model has. 

All hybrid variants are paired to a lithium-ion traction battery, and an e-CVT transmission. Toyota claims that the Camry returns fuel-efficiency figures of 43- to 51 MPG, or roughly 5.5- to 4.6 litres/100 km.

Enhancements to the driving capabilities of the new Camry also extends to retuned suspension with a sharper focus on responsiveness and agility, and all models, like before, maintain its multi-link rear suspension setup. SE and XSE grades get sports shock absorbers all around, and a larger diameter stabiliser bar in front.

Also read: New 2024 Toyota Camry (XV80) debuts in USA; no more ICE, only hybrid, Crown-inspired looks

A newly-developed braking system (comprising of a new pump motor) complements the on-road capabilities, and drivers can choose between Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes too.

As usual, the Camry nets LED head- and taillights all around, with the main look being more than inspired by recent models like the Crown and Prius. Per the American market there's a lot of factory customisation to do – a few wheel options, blacked-out badges, up to 12 colour combinations, and accent packages.

The interior also boasts an all-new look, but thankfully it looks to still be relatively traditional with a bevy of buttons coming along with its two big digital displays. Key differences between variants are trims and colour options, along with sporty touches like aluminium pedals and paddle shifters.

Shared across the range however are new memory seats, which now comes with a longer cushion, and softer headrest that's been moved rearwards. XLE and XSE grades also get standard acoustic glass too.

The Camry gets a 7-inch digital gauge cluster as standard, though pricier models gain a 12.3-inch unit. Head-up display (HUD) is also optional, and so is the 12.3-inch infotainment display with wireles Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Other comfort features extends to a Qi wireless charger, five USB ports, a panoramic sunroof, and Toyota Drive Connect in-car telematics with voice-controlled assistance and over-the-air updates (OTA).

On the safety front, the Camry comes with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 3.0, which includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Road Sign Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Proactive Driving Assist braking and steering assist

2024 Camry in Malaysia

As for Malaysia, we will have to wait and see for its arrival though Headlight Mag speculated that the new Camry could be making its way into the Kingdom in October 2024. The automotive outlet reported that the Thai-spec 2024 Camry could be based on the Chinese-spec model instead.

Since the outgoing Malaysian-spec XV70 Camry is fully imported (CBU) from Thailand, suffice to say that once the new XV80 is launched there, we might get our hands on one not too long after. The XV70 Camry is available in Malaysia in the sole Camry 2.5 V variant which starts from RM 219,800.

Also read: Toyota Camry Hybrid to make a comeback in Malaysia? Previewed at UMWT's Beyond Zero event