For years, the Toyota Camry has been the “understated” choice for India’s elite—CEOs, politicians, and those who value comfort over flashiness. But with the arrival of the 9th Generation Toyota Camry 2026, the script has changed. This isn’t just a minor facelift; it is a tech-heavy, hybrid-only beast that looks sharper than ever.
Launched at an expected ex-showroom price of ₹48.00 Lakh to ₹50.00 Lakh, the 2026 Camry targets a very specific buyer: someone who wants Mercedes-level comfort but with the legendary “fill it and forget it” Toyota reliability.
QUICK SPECS TABLE: What’s Under the Hood?
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 2.5L, 4-Cylinder Petrol + 5th Gen Hybrid System |
| Combined Power | 225 BHP (FWD) / 232 BHP (AWD) |
| Max Torque | 221 Nm (Engine) + Electric Motor Assist |
| Transmission | e-CVT (Electronic Continuously Variable) |
| 0-100 kmph | ~7.8 Seconds |
| Boot Space | 427 Litres |
| Ground Clearance | 160 mm (laden) |
EXTERIOR DESIGN: From “Boring” to “Bold”
The most striking change in the Toyota Camry 2026 is its “Hammerhead” front fascia. It looks aggressive, borrowed straight from the new Prius and Crown global models.
- Front Profile: The sleek C-shaped LED DRLs and a massive honey-comb lower grille give it a low-slung, sporty stance.
- Side Profile: The 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels look premium, and the character lines are much sharper than the outgoing model.
- Rear Stance: The “Camry” lettering across the boot and the new C-shaped tail lamps make it look wider and more planted.
INTERIOR, COMFORT & FEATURES: A Private Jet on Wheels
Step inside, and you’ll realize why people pay ₹50 Lakh for a Toyota. The 2026 model has ditched the old-school wood inserts for a more “Tech-Luxe” vibe.
- Dashboard: You now get a massive 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. The software is snappy, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Chauffeur Comfort: This is where the Camry wins. The rear seats are power-adjustable (recline function), and you get a dedicated touch panel in the center armrest to control the AC and sunblinds.
- Premium Bits: A 9-speaker JBL Audio System, a Head-Up Display (HUD), and a panoramic sunroof (a first for the Camry in India) elevate the experience.
- Missing Features: While it has almost everything, some might miss the “Massaging Seats” found in higher-end Europeans.
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ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS
The 2026 Camry is Hybrid-only. There is no pure petrol or diesel option.
The City Drive
In city traffic, the Camry is a silent assassin. It starts in EV mode, making it eerily quiet. The steering is light, making it surprisingly easy to maneuver through Mumbai or Bangalore traffic despite its nearly 5-meter length.
The Highway Drive
When you floor the pedal, the 2.5L engine wakes up seamlessly. The 225 BHP output feels punchy, and the 0-100 kmph sprint in under 8 seconds is respectable. However, the e-CVT “rubber-band” effect is still slightly noticeable if you’re an aggressive driver.
The Suspension (The Pothole Test)
The suspension is tuned for comfort. It absorbs Indian potholes and expansion joints with a muted “thud.” It isn’t a corner-carver like a BMW, but for long highway cruises, it stays incredibly stable at 120 kmph.
REAL WORLD MILEAGE: The Shocking Truth
This is the Camry’s “Trump Card.” In a country where fuel prices are always a concern, the Camry delivers like a hatchback.
- ARAI Claimed Mileage: 25.49 kmpl
- Real World City Mileage: 18 – 21 kmpl (Hybrid shines in stop-go traffic)
- Real World Highway Mileage: 16 – 19 kmpl
SAFETY: Built Like a Tank
Toyota hasn’t cut corners here. The 2026 Camry comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (ADAS).
- Airbags: 9 Airbags as standard.
- ADAS Features: Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Pre-Collision Braking.
- Build: Based on the TNGA-K platform, it feels incredibly solid.
THE COMPETITION: Camry vs The Germans
Since the Skoda Superb is now a CBU (expensive), the Camry faces competition from entry-level luxury brands.
| Feature | Toyota Camry 2026 | Audi A4 | BMW 2 Series GC |
| Price (Ex-sh) | ₹48.50 Lakh | ₹46.25 Lakh | ₹45.90 Lakh |
| Fuel Type | Petrol Hybrid | Petrol | Petrol/Diesel |
| Mileage | ~20 kmpl | ~12 kmpl | ~14 kmpl |
| Rear Space | Massive (Best) | Moderate | Cramped |
Winner: If you want driving thrills, get the BMW. If you want rear-seat luxury and low running costs, the Camry is the undisputed winner.
FINAL VERDICT
Buy it if:
- You want the best rear-seat comfort in the segment.
- You want a luxury car with the mileage of a Maruti Swift.
- You plan to keep the car for 10+ years (Toyota’s reliability).
Skip it if:
- You want a “Badge” (Audi/BMW/Merc) to show off.
- You are an enthusiast who wants sharp, sporty handling.
- You have a tight budget (the on-road price will touch ₹58 Lakh in some states).
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Q1: What is the on-road price of Toyota Camry 2026 in India?
A: Depending on your city, the on-road price will range between ₹55 Lakh to ₹60 Lakh.
Q2: Does it come with a CNG option?
A: No, the Camry is a Premium Hybrid. There is no factory-fitted CNG.
Q3: What is the waiting period?
A: Currently, expect a waiting period of 3 to 4 months due to high demand for the new design.