Toyota has answered the call for enhanced all-weather capability in its popular sedan lineup with the introduction of the Awd Toyota Camry. For the first time since 1991, Camry drivers can experience the confidence of all-wheel drive, alongside the debut of AWD in the flagship Avalon sedan. This new Dynamic Torque Control AWD system, developed specifically for North America, is available as a standalone option on Camry LE, XLE, SE, and XSE grades, as well as Avalon XLE and Limited trims.
The rising demand for AWD vehicles, particularly in the SUV and crossover segments, has highlighted a gap in the midsize sedan market. Toyota is directly addressing this need by offering AWD in the Camry, America’s best-selling midsize sedan for 17 years, and the Avalon. These models provide customers outside the luxury market with more choices for confident driving in various weather conditions.
North America Exclusive: Developed and Built in the U.S.
The AWD Toyota Camry and Avalon AWD are unique to the North American market. Engineered and assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, these models demonstrate Toyota’s commitment to regional market needs and U.S. manufacturing. This localized approach ensures the vehicles are tailored to the specific demands and preferences of North American drivers.
Efficient Power and Smart AWD System
Both the Camry AWD and Avalon AWD models are powered by a fuel-efficient 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission. Most Camry AWD grades deliver 202 horsepower, while the sportier Camry XSE AWD and both Avalon AWD grades produce 205 horsepower thanks to a dual exhaust system. This powertrain combination emphasizes fuel economy without sacrificing performance, and the intelligent AWD system further enhances this balance.
Toyota’s Dynamic Torque Control AWD system is designed to maximize traction in challenging conditions without compromising fuel efficiency. This system is borrowed and adapted from the RAV4, a compact SUV known for its capable AWD performance. The AWD Toyota Camry leverages this technology to provide drivers with enhanced stability and control, especially in slippery conditions.
Toyota’s Commitment to Sedans and Innovation
While some automakers are shifting away from sedans, Toyota is reinforcing its dedication to this segment by expanding its offerings. The introduction of AWD in the Camry and Avalon, alongside hybrid models and TRD performance versions, showcases Toyota’s ongoing innovation and responsiveness to customer needs within the sedan market. The AWD Toyota Camry is a testament to this commitment.
Toyota has a history with AWD Camry models, previously offering the AllTrac version from 1988 to 1991. The reintroduction of AWD in the Camry is a direct response to customer and dealer requests, demonstrating Toyota’s attentiveness to market feedback and its loyal customer base who have long awaited a modern AWD Toyota Camry.
Dynamic Torque Control AWD: Intelligent Traction When You Need It
The Dynamic Torque Control AWD system in the AWD Toyota Camry is engineered for seamless operation and optimal efficiency. Unlike some AWD systems, Toyota’s system can intelligently adapt to driving conditions. It can direct up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels when accelerating from a standstill or when front wheel slippage is detected.
A key feature of this system is its ability to disengage the propeller shaft when AWD is not necessary, such as during steady highway cruising. This minimizes drag and prioritizes fuel efficiency, a crucial consideration for modern drivers. The system is designed to re-engage instantaneously when AWD is needed, ensuring optimal traction without driver intervention. This sophisticated system operates transparently, maintaining the comfortable ride, spacious interior, and agile handling characteristics of the front-wheel-drive Camry models. The AWD Toyota Camry offers enhanced traction without compromising the qualities that Camry owners value.
TNGA Platform: The Foundation for Innovation
The development of the AWD Toyota Camry and Avalon AWD was made possible by the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. Initially, AWD variants were not planned for these models. However, the flexibility of the TNGA platform allowed engineers at Toyota Motor North America Research and Development to efficiently develop and implement the AWD system in-house.
TNGA represents a comprehensive approach to vehicle design and manufacturing, encompassing engineering, design, production, and materials. Its inherent flexibility allows for the development of diverse models using shared components and engineering principles. The AWD Toyota Camry and Avalon AWD exemplify how TNGA enables Toyota to quickly adapt to market demands and tailor vehicles to specific regional needs.
By leveraging the RAV4’s TNGA platform, engineers were able to integrate proven components into the Camry and Avalon AWD. This included sharing the engine, transmission, transfer case, and rear differential. The RAV4’s multi-link rear suspension was adapted and tuned for sedan application, and a modified propeller shaft from the Highlander SUV was also utilized.
Integrating AWD required modifications to the Camry and Avalon floor structure, the adoption of an electronic parking brake, and a saddle-style fuel tank optimized for AWD models. Despite these changes, the AWD Toyota Camry maintains the same rear seat hip point and trunk floor height as its FWD counterparts, minimizing any impact on passenger and cargo space. The addition of AWD adds only approximately 165 lbs to the Camry’s weight, ensuring that performance and handling remain consistent with FWD models.
Driving Experience and Cold Weather Features
Drivers can expect the AWD Toyota Camry and Avalon AWD to deliver a driving experience comparable to their FWD versions, with the added benefit of enhanced traction. The suspension tuning, wheels, and tires remain consistent across FWD and AWD grades, ensuring that the distinct characteristics of each trim level are preserved. For instance, the Camry XSE AWD retains the sport-tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels of the FWD XSE.
For enhanced comfort in colder climates, an optional Cold-Weather Package is available on all AWD Toyota Camry grades. This package includes heated seats and mirrors on the LE, heated seats, mirrors, and steering wheel on the SE, and a heated steering wheel on the XLE and XSE. All other standard and optional features from the FWD versions are carried over to the AWD models, including Toyota Audio multimedia systems with smartphone integration via Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa.
The AWD Toyota Camry is a model year 2020 vehicle and was released to dealerships in early spring. The Avalon AWD is a model year 2021 vehicle and went on sale in fall 2020. Both AWD Avalon grades come standard with a heated steering wheel.
Toyota Safety Sense-P and Star Safety System
Safety remains a top priority for Toyota. All 2020 Camry and Avalon models, including the AWD versions, come standard with Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P). This suite of active safety technologies includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
- Automatic High Beams (AHB)
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is available on the Camry and standard on the Avalon. Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) with Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB) is also available on both models.
In addition to TSS-P, all AWD Toyota Camry and Avalon models are equipped with 10 standard airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System. This comprehensive safety system includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology. A standard backup camera is also included in all models.
Conclusion: The Confidence of AWD, The Quality of Camry
The AWD Toyota Camry and Avalon AWD represent Toyota’s commitment to providing drivers with vehicles that meet their evolving needs. By combining the renowned quality and reliability of the Camry and Avalon with the added confidence of all-wheel drive, Toyota has created compelling options for drivers seeking enhanced traction and peace of mind in various driving conditions. These North America-exclusive models are poised to be popular choices for those seeking a capable and dependable sedan with all-weather capability.
