Toyota India has launched the ninth-generation Camry at a price of Rs 48 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it directly in competition with the Skoda Superb and Audi A4 in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. Notably, while the Audi A4 falls within a similar price bracket, traditional rivals like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (Rs 59.40 lakh onwards), BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine (Rs 60.60 lakh onwards), and Lexus ES (Rs 64 lakh onwards) are positioned at a higher price point. Let’s see how the new Camry stacks up against its closest competitors on paper.
Dimensions Comparison: Toyota Camry vs Skoda Superb vs Audi A4
| Model | Toyota Camry | Skoda Superb | Audi A4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length (mm) | 4920 | 4869 | 4762 |
| Width (mm) | 1840 | 1864 | 1847 |
| Height (mm) | 1455 | 1503 | 1433 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2825 | 2836 | 2826 |
| Kerb Weight (kg) | 1645 | 1565 | 1540-1560 |
| Boot Space (L) | 524 | 625 | 460 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | 50 | 66 | 54 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 145* | 151 | – |
| Tyres | 235/45 R18 | 235/45 R18 | 225/50 R17 |
The Toyota Camry emerges as the longest sedan here, measuring 51mm longer than the Superb and 158mm longer than the Audi A4. However, the Skoda Superb holds its edge in width, height, and wheelbase, potentially offering superior cabin space. The Superb’s boot capacity of 625 litres further cements its practicality advantage over the Camry’s 524 litres and the A4’s 460 litres.
On the weight front, the Camry is notably heavier by around 90kg, likely due to its hybrid system. Meanwhile, the Audi A4, though smaller in dimensions, benefits from a lighter kerb weight and a larger fuel tank than the Camry.
Engine and Powertrain Comparison
| Model | Toyota Camry | Skoda Superb | Audi A4 |
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl petrol + Electric Motor | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo-petrol | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo-petrol |
| Power (hp) | 230 (Combined) | 190 at 4200-6000 rpm | 204 at 4475-6000 rpm |
| Torque (Nm) | 221 + 208 | 320 at 1500-4100 rpm | 320 at 1450-4475 rpm |
| Transmission | 10-step eCVT | 7-speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) | 7-speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) |
Under the hood, the Toyota Camry features a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 230hp. This makes it the most powerful sedan in this comparison, outpacing the Skoda Superb by 40hp and the Audi A4 by 26hp. While Toyota hasn’t revealed a combined torque figure, the hybrid system’s instant torque delivery ensures impressive off-the-line responsiveness.
In contrast, both the Skoda Superb and Audi A4 are powered by the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine shared by the VW Group, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Despite identical peak torque figures of 320Nm, the A4 produces slightly more power than the Superb and maintains torque over a broader RPM range. Audi also claims a 0-100kph time of 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 241kph for the A4.
However, the Camry shines with its hybrid efficiency, offering an ARAI-rated mileage of 25.49kpl, making it the most fuel-efficient option here by a significant margin.
Price Comparison
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom, India) |
| Toyota Camry | Rs 48 lakh |
| Skoda Superb | Rs 54 lakh |
| Audi A4 | Rs 46.02 – Rs 54.58 lakh |
At Rs 48 lakh, the Toyota Camry undercuts the Skoda Superb by a massive Rs 6 lakh, making it a compelling value proposition. While the Audi A4 starts at a lower price of Rs 46.02 lakh, its higher variants breach the Camry’s price range. It’s important to note that the Skoda Superb is currently available only as the previous-generation model in limited numbers, with its successor yet to arrive in India. This explains its positioning as a pricier, fully imported CBU (Completely Built-Up) model.
Verdict
The new Toyota Camry offers a unique blend of space, performance, and exceptional fuel efficiency courtesy of its hybrid powertrain, all at a competitive price. While it may not match the Skoda Superb’s spacious cabin or the Audi A4’s sharp driving dynamics, the Camry’s value proposition and greener credentials make it a strong alternative to its European rivals, particularly for those prioritizing efficiency and long-term running costs.
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