2022 Toyota Camry facelift to be launched in Thailand November 3

With the facelifted Toyota Camry now offered in most global markets, the refreshed D-segment sedan is finally headed to Southeast Asia next. After being launched in Singapore earlier this year as a Japanese import, the car will make its debut in Thailand on November 3 with a mild redesign and a consolidated powertrain lineup.

According to Thai publication Headlight Magazine, the Land of Smiles will follow Malaysia in ditching the base 2.0 litre model, with the updated range consisting of the returning 2.5G and Hybrid Premium and Premium Luxury variants, plus a new 2.5E Sport.

The sole petrol engine option is the unchanged E85-compatible A25A-FKB 2.5 litre Dynamic Force naturally-aspirated four-cylinder that produces 209 PS at 6,600 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm; it’s paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The Hybrid variant gets an Atkinson-cycle version of that mill that pushes out 178 PS at 5,700 rpm and 221 Nm between 3,600 and 5,200 rpm.

Providing added punch is an 88 PS/202 Nm electric motor that helps the Camry Hybrid achieve a total system output of 211 PS. The nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery has been retained but is now located under the rear seats – instead of under the boot floor – to boost luggage space and lower the centre of gravity.

Visual changes are fairly minor and consists of a more defined centre intake that just out from the large lower grille, now framed by some chrome inserts; the upper grille has also been mildly re-profiled. Inside, the centre console has been rearranged with the new freestanding infotainment touchscreen now situated above the air vents, following the trend set by newer Toyota models.

Safety has also been upgraded with the introduction of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which adds nighttime pedestrian, daytime cyclist and cross-junction pedestrian detection for the autonomous emergency braking system. Other new features include evasive steering assist, lane centring assist, a corner deceleration function for the adaptive cruise control, and drive start control that protects against sudden throttle inputs.

The facelifted Camry will reportedly launch in Thailand with a host of Modellista accessories from Japan, including a full aerokit. With the car on the cusp of its regional debut, will it be coming to Malaysia soon? Given that UMW Toyota Motor has upgraded the Bukit Raja assembly plant for the TNGA platform and hybrid models, we may well see the Camry arrive in CKD form with a hybrid option. The Dynamic Force engine is also likely to finally make its way here, now that supply issues have eased.

GALLERY: Toyota Camry facelift in Japan