2025 Toyota Camry 2.5 HEV Review

In the mid-to-high-end sedan market in Malaysia, D-segment models have consistently been the core choice for balancing business and family needs. Consumers value both brand reliability and have high expectations for features and fuel efficiency. The 2025 Toyota Camry 2.5 HEV, as a refreshed model in this segment, highlights "a stronger hybrid power system + comprehensive intelligent configuration upgrade" as its core selling points. This test drive will focus on verifying its power performance, space practicality, and overall balance for daily driving.

From the exterior, the 2025 Camry 2.5 HEV showcases a youthful and sporty style while maintaining the sense of stability expected from a mid-to-high-end sedan. The front adopts a large trapezoidal lower grille, paired with slim LED headlight clusters, and a horizontally-spanning chrome strip connecting the two light clusters, enhancing visual width. The side profile features flowing lines, with a waistline extending from the front fender to the rear, adding a sense of muscularity. The 18-inch multi-spoke wheels paired with 235/45 R18 tires further enhance the sporty vibe. At the rear, the LED taillight clusters adopt a smoked finish, complementing the small trunk spoiler, while the dual exhausts with concealed outlets strike a balance between subtlety and sophistication. The overall design offers high recognition, particularly in the details of the front end and taillights, which make it instantly distinguishable as the latest model.

Stepping inside, the interior features a symmetrical layout, with the center console slightly tilted towards the driver for easier operation. In terms of materials, the door panels and seats are wrapped in leather, while the top of the center console features soft-touch materials with a refined texture. The 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel offers clear displays and allows switching between different driving mode interfaces. The HUD head-up display projects key information such as speed and navigation, reducing the need to avert your eyes while driving. The 12.3-inch central infotainment screen is equipped with Toyota's smart connectivity system, supporting voice control, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with smooth and lag-free operation. The JBL 9-speaker sound system delivers decent audio quality, meeting daily music needs.

In terms of vehicle dimensions, it measures 4920mm in length, 1840mm in width, and 1445mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2825mm, ensuring ample interior space. The front seats support 8-way electric adjustment, offering good wrapping and support, making long drives less tiring. The rear seat space is excellent, as a 175cm tall passenger can still have more than two fists of legroom remaining, and headroom is also quite spacious. Additionally, the rear seats can be adjusted electrically, boosting comfort. For storage, the central armrest box is generously sized, door storage slots can hold water bottles and small items, and the trunk provides adequate standard capacity for family outings. The flat opening design also facilitates the placement of large items. Both front and rear rows are equipped with USB ports and air conditioning vents, demonstrating thoughtful attention to detail.

In terms of the powertrain, the hybrid system consists of a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine paired with a permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering a combined output of 230PS, and is matched with an E-CVT transmission. During daily driving, the motor's initial response is quick, and the throttle pedal is tuned to be sensitive in the early stages, providing a light and smooth start. When switched to sport mode, the engine engages proactively, delivering smooth power with seamless acceleration. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 7.2 seconds, providing sufficient confidence during overtaking. The E-CVT transmission operates without shift shock and integrates harmoniously with the powertrain, making transitions between power sources barely noticeable.

In terms of handling, the steering wheel offers precise control with minimal dead spots. It is light at low speeds and progressively heavier at high speeds, providing a good tactile feel. The front MacPherson strut and rear double-wishbone independent suspension are tuned more for comfort and effectively filter out small road vibrations. When going over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension rebounds quickly without excessive movement. The body roll is well-controlled when cornering, and the chassis stability is high, giving the driver ample confidence.

The fuel consumption is a key advantage of hybrid models. This test drive covered congested urban roads, highway cruising, and suburban roads, achieving an average fuel consumption of approximately 4.2L/100km, which is close to the official figure of 4L/100km. The fuel economy is excellent. In terms of noise control, the vehicle primarily relies on the electric motor at low speeds, resulting in an almost noise-free cabin. At high speeds, wind and tire noise slightly increase but remain within an acceptable range, not affecting normal conversations among passengers.

In terms of safety features, the entire model line comes standard with 7 airbags, ABS anti-lock braking, vehicle stability control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and 360-degree panoramic cameras. Its comprehensive safety features provide ample protection for drivers and passengers.

Overall, the core strengths of the 2025 Toyota Camry 2.5 HEV lie in its balanced capabilities: ample power, outstanding fuel economy, spacious and comfortable interior, rich and practical features, and comprehensive safety performance. Compared with other models in the same category, its highly advanced hybrid system and exceptional fuel efficiency stand out, while its feature level also remains competitive in this price range.

This car is suitable for family users who prioritize fuel efficiency, practical space, and brand reliability, as well as office workers needing a vehicle that combines personal and professional use. Whether for daily commutes, family trips, or long-distance drives, it offers a comfortable and convenient driving and riding experience.

In conclusion, the 2025 Toyota Camry 2.5 HEV is a well-rounded mid-size hybrid sedan. With its mature hybrid system, abundant features, and trustworthy brand reputation, it boasts strong competitiveness in the D-segment market and is a worthy option to consider.