The Toyota Camry VI (XV40) 2.4i 16V, produced between 2006 and 2009, represented a significant evolution of Toyota’s mid-size sedan. Part of the sixth generation Camry lineup (XV40), this variant occupied a sweet spot in the range, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It was primarily marketed towards families and commuters seeking a reliable and comfortable vehicle. The XV40 generation marked a shift towards a more modern and refined Camry, addressing criticisms of previous models regarding interior quality and driving dynamics. This 2.4i model, with its 167 horsepower engine, was a mainstay of the lineup, positioned above the base 2.0-liter engine and below the more powerful 3.5-liter V6.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Camry |
| Generation | Camry VI (XV40) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4i 16V (167 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 167 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 224 Nm @ 4000 rpm (165.21 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2AZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2362 cm3 (144.14 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520-1600 kg (3351.03 – 3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 385-465 kg (848.78 – 1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 535 l (18.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4815 mm (189.57 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2775 mm (109.25 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Front overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1085 mm (42.72 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Camry 2.4i 16V is the 2AZ-FE engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilizes a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, a common configuration for balancing durability and weight. The 2AZ-FE features multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for optimized combustion. The engine also incorporates Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) system, which adjusts the timing of both intake and exhaust valves based on engine speed and load. This technology enhances both performance and fuel efficiency. The 5-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and highway cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4i 16V Camry offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the 167 horsepower engine provided adequate power for everyday driving situations, including merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8.6 seconds. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain control over the engine’s powerband, while the gear ratios were spaced to provide reasonable acceleration in each gear. Compared to the base 2.0-liter engine, the 2.4i offered a noticeable improvement in performance. However, it lacked the outright power and responsiveness of the 3.5-liter V6. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4i trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels added features like a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and leather upholstery. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and side airbags. Optional extras included navigation system, premium sound system, and alloy wheels.
Chassis & Braking
The Camry XV40 utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. ABS was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability in emergency situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Camry 2.4i 16V was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its reliability, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. Compared to competitors like the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima, the Camry offered a similar level of refinement and practicality. The 2.4i model struck a good balance between price and performance, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded mid-size sedan. Fuel economy was competitive for its class, averaging around 27.7 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The 2AZ-FE engine, found in the Camry 2.4i, is known for its durability and reliability. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The XV40 Camry generation, as a whole, has earned a reputation for long-term dependability, making it a popular choice in the used car market. While not particularly exciting to drive, the Camry 2.4i 16V remains a practical and affordable option for those seeking a reliable and comfortable mid-size sedan.
