Toyota Motor Sales has raised the manufacturer's suggested retail prices for the base model of the all-new, seventh-generation Toyota Camry but is reducing prices on other popularly equipped versions and the hybrid Camry, putting new pressure on competitors in the mid-sized segment. The price for the base Camry “L” model with a four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission has  increased 3.3 percent to $21,995 but the price on the other seven models in the Camry lineup, including to hybrid versions have dropped by an average of $1,200 for the 2012 model year, which begins Oct. 1.  The Camry  has been best-selling passenger car for nine years running and 13 of the past 14 years.
 "Despite all of the enhancements to the all-new Camry, prices for all popular models have been reduced with dramatic repositioning on SE, XLE and Hybrid models, representing the best value in the segment," says Bob Carter, Toyota Group Vice President and General Manager. "Competing in the industry's most competitive segment, we expect the Camry to continue as America's best-selling car," Carter said. The 2012 Camry and Camry Hybrid offer a new exterior design, a more spacious interior,  top of the category safety features, improved driving dynamics and an even quieter ride than before. Toyota officials said.
The 2012 Camry is powered by a revised 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine equipped with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which features reduced noise and vibration levels and produces 178 horsepower, an increase of nine horsepower, and 170 lbs-ft. of torque. Fuel economy is also improved with EPA estimated mpg ratings of 25 city/35 hwy/28 combined.  All four-cylinder models are matched with six-speed automatic transmissions.
 For those looking for more power, a 24-valve, DOHC 3.5-liter V6, which employs Dual VVT-i is available in the SE and XLE models. The V6 generates 268 horsepower and 248 lbs.-ft. of torque and is matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift and has EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 21 city/30 hwy/25 combined.
All 2012 Camrys are equipped with a class-leading 10 standard airbags, and like all Toyota models, the Camry will feature Toyota's Star Safety System standard, which includes Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist. It also features the standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system. An electronic tire pressure monitoring system is also standard. By Joseph Szczesny