GREEN | 9 out of 10
Throughout most of the Camry lineup, Toyota has increased the torque-converter lockup range for the automatic transmission to help keep revs down; that, combined with a tremendous weight savings of 150 pounds or more across the model line, has added at least 1 mpg to every model. Four-cylinder models are now up to 25/35 mpg, while mileage ratings for the Camry V-6 have increased 1 mpg, to 21/30.
The all-new 2012 Camry Hybrid gets excellent gas mileage, of up to 43 mpg city, 39 highway. That's better than the Ford Fusion Hybrid, which up until this point we'd grown to like better than the Camry Hybrid because of its better drivability, more responsive steering, and of course its better EPA rating in previous model years.
Just as in the Prius, Toyota has added EV Mode and Eco Mode to the Camry. Under some situations, given proper charge, the lack of steep hills, and light throttle application, the Camry Hybrid can go about a half-mile or more on electricity alone. In addition to the power-flow screens and the histograms for mileage in time increments, the Camry Hybrid gets a screen readout for real-time mileage and its own power-flow display.
Conclusion
The 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid could almost be an honorary Prius, with its stunning 43 mpg in the city, while the four-cylinder model is near the top at 35 mpg highway.
