New Delhi, August 24, 2012: Toyota Kirloskar Motor launched the seventh-generation Camry today. It will be positioned in the premium D and E segments and has already received 50 bookings in the last 10 days. It carries an introductory price tag of Rs 23.80 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) but prices will be spiked up once demand escalates. The premium saloon, powered by a 2.5-litre dual VVT-i petrol engine, will be available in only one variant fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission with a sequential shift.

The premium Camry saloon will not be available with a manual transmission and will come in CKD form to India, unlike the earlier model which was brought in completely built form to India, said Hiroshi Nakagawa, managing director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, at its launch. But despite the relief to the company in terms of high custom duties imposed on CBU imports, the CKD version will not be lower priced than the CBU due to rising input costs, a depreciating rupee versus the dollar and the appreciating yen, clarified company officials.

At present 35 percent of the premium car segment in the country that accounts for one percent of the total market, and touted to be worth around 24,000 units, is petrol-engine powered with the balance 65 percent being diesel-driven. This segment is experiencing a growth of 15 percent annually and is expected to maintain this momentum in the future as well.

The new Camry will be 3okg lighter than its predecessor, facilitating higher fuel efficiency with about 10 percent localisation content, said Michihiko Sato, chief engineer, Toyota Motor Corporation. Some chassis components and springs have been localised so far.

SHOBHA MATHUR