Toyota has priced its new Camry hybrid – a petrol-electric version of America’s most popular car – at US$25,900, around $5,000 cheaper than rival Honda’s Accord hybrid.
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Reuters said a direct comparison was difficult because the cars have different engine sizes and standard features, but the petrol versions of the Camry and Accord sedans compete in the same segment in the US.
Both Japanese auto makers, which lead the industry in the advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, are aiming to reduce the cost of hybrid systems to limit the premium consumers pay to around $2,000, the news agency noted, adding that a comparable version of the petrol-only Camry sells for $20,500.
Reuters said the 2007 model year Camry hybrid has a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine developing 187 horsepower combined with the electric motor while the 2006 Accord hybrid, which starts at $30,990, is more powerful, producing a combined 253 hp with its three-litre V6 engine.
The Japanese-built Camry hybrid goes on sale in the United States in May, and will be followed by a local version scheduled to be produced in Kentucky from October.
Toyota has targeted sales of about 30,000 Camry hybrids this year, Reuters said.
