The Toyota Camry VI (XV40), particularly the facelifted model produced from 2009 to 2011, represented a significant evolution of Toyota’s mid-size sedan. The 2.4-liter Hybrid variant, equipped with an e-CVT transmission and producing a combined 187 horsepower, was positioned as a premium, fuel-efficient offering within the Camry lineup. This generation Camry aimed to balance comfort, reliability, and increasingly, environmental responsibility, catering to a growing segment of buyers seeking alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The XV40 platform, shared with the Lexus ES and RX, provided a solid foundation for the Camry’s continued success in the highly competitive family sedan market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Camry |
| Generation | Camry VI (XV40, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (187 Hp) Hybrid e-CVT |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | AT-PZEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112.5 Nm/tonne |
| Battery voltage | 244.8 V |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery location | Behind the back wall of the passenger cabin |
| Electric motor power | 143 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 270 Nm @ 0-1500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 0-1500 rpm) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 187 Hp |
| Internal combustion engine power | 147 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.2 Hp/l |
| Engine torque | 187 Nm @ 4400 rpm (137.92 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2AZ-FXE |
| Engine displacement | 2362 cm3 (144.14 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96.5 mm (3.8 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1662 kg (3664.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4806 mm (189.21 in.) |
| Width | 1821 mm (71.69 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm (109.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| 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, 294 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 279 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2009-2011 Camry Hybrid is the 2AZ-FXE 2.4-liter inline-four engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and Toyota’s Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) technology for both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 147 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 137.92 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. However, the system’s total output is 187 hp, thanks to the addition of a 143-horsepower electric motor. The electric motor draws power from a 244.8V nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack located behind the rear seats. The key to the hybrid system is Toyota’s Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT). Unlike traditional CVTs with belts and pulleys, the e-CVT uses a planetary gearset to seamlessly blend power from the gasoline engine and electric motor, offering a smooth and efficient driving experience. The system can operate in EV mode at lower speeds, relying solely on the electric motor, or combine both power sources for optimal performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4-liter Hybrid Camry with the e-CVT delivers a distinctly different driving experience compared to the standard gasoline-powered models or those equipped with the optional V6. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but it doesn’t offer the briskness of the V6. The e-CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency over sporty responsiveness. The lack of distinct gear changes contributes to a very smooth, almost seamless acceleration. The electric motor provides instant torque, which helps to offset the relatively modest horsepower output of the gasoline engine. In typical city driving, the hybrid system frequently operates in EV mode, resulting in near-silent operation and excellent fuel economy. The steering is light and precise, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Compared to a manual transmission Camry, the e-CVT sacrifices some driver engagement for ease of use and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4-liter Hybrid Camry typically came well-equipped, often positioned as a step above the base gasoline models. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, a CD player with MP3 compatibility, and cruise control. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a power driver’s seat, a sunroof, and a premium sound system. Safety features were also comprehensive, including anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and a full complement of airbags. Optional extras included navigation systems and upgraded audio packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Camry Hybrid utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. ABS is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and stability in emergency braking situations. The brake system is integrated with the hybrid system, utilizing regenerative braking to capture energy during deceleration and recharge the battery.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2009-2011 Camry Hybrid was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its excellent fuel economy, smooth ride, and comfortable interior. However, some reviewers noted that the acceleration was not as brisk as that of the V6-powered Camry. Compared to the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder Camry, the Hybrid offered significantly better fuel economy, but at a higher initial cost. Compared to other hybrid options available at the time, such as the Ford Fusion Hybrid, the Camry Hybrid was often considered to be more refined and reliable. The AT-PZEV emission standard highlighted Toyota’s commitment to reducing emissions.
Legacy
The 2.4-liter Hybrid Camry powertrain has proven to be remarkably reliable over the long term. The e-CVT transmission, while unconventional, has demonstrated a strong track record of durability. The NiMH battery pack, while requiring eventual replacement (typically after 100,000-150,000 miles), is relatively affordable to replace. On the used car market, these Camry Hybrids continue to be sought after for their fuel efficiency and reputation for reliability. They represent a significant step in Toyota’s hybrid technology development and helped to popularize hybrid vehicles among mainstream consumers.
