Looking to buy a Toyota Camry in Lagos, Nigeria? With its reputation for affordability and reliability, the Camry has been a go-to choice for families worldwide. Since its debut in the 1980s as a four-door version of the Celica, the Camry has evolved into a top contender in the lower-priced sedan market. From its early days to the present, the Camry has seen various updates and innovations, including the addition of a hybrid drivetrain.
In this article, we’ll explore what to consider when purchasing a Camry in Lagos and highlight some of the best model years to help you make an informed decision.
Buying Toyota Camry Cars In Lagos
The Toyota Camry is a very popular car in Nigeria because it’s dependable and holds its value. Before 2018, it wasn’t very fun to drive, but the new version is more exciting. The new front-wheel-drive Camry comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or 3.5-liter V-6 engine, or as a gas-electric Hybrid that pairs a four-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor
Toyota Camry Models available in Nigeria
- 1992 – 2001 Camry
This Camry generation made Toyota known for reliability and kept the car as a top choice in the family sedan category. The previous softer look was replaced, but the wagon and coupe options were removed. They offered a fuel-efficient 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine and a more fuel-consuming 3.0-liter V-6.
- 2002 – 2006 Camry
In 2002, the new Camry came with a fresh design that looked a lot like luxury Lexus sedans. It had bigger headlights and taillights compared to the older version. The standard engine was a bigger 2.4-litre four-cylinder, and later, in 2004, a slightly larger and stronger V-6 engine was added for the SE trim, alongside the existing 3.0-litre V-6.
- 2007 – 2011 Camry
In 2007, Toyota redesigned the Camry to compete with cars like the Honda Accord and Ford Fusion. The new look was sleeker but still pretty conservative. It came with a standard 158-hp, 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, and you could upgrade to a more powerful 268-hp, 3.5-litre V-6. Side airbags and curtain airbags were included, and later on, an electronic stability system became standard in 2010. They also introduced a hybrid model to the Camry lineup for the first time in 2007.
- 2012 – 2017 Camry
In 2012, the Camry got a big update, but it faced tough competition from other mid-size sedans like the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Honda Accord, Kia Optima, and Chevrolet Malibu. These rivals were improving their interiors, refinement, and performance. Toyota responded by making the Camry more fuel-efficient, offering the usual four-cylinder and V-6 engines, as well as a hybrid option. They also stopped offering a manual transmission for the first time. In 2013, rear cross-traffic alert became optional. Then, in 2015, they gave it a design makeover with a more aggressive look, and they added features like wireless smartphone charging to keep up with the competition.
- 2018 – 2024 Camry
Since its 2018 makeover, the Camry has become more fun to drive, thanks to a new platform and improved suspension. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine offers plenty of power, but the optional 301-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 is very tempting. Both engines come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V-6 engine is smooth, powerful, and surprisingly fuel-efficient, with a combined EPA rating of 26 mpg. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, the Camry Hybrid is worth considering, boasting an EPA-estimated 52 mpg combined in LE trim. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.
What to consider when buying a Toyota Camry in Lagos, Nigeria
Before purchasing a Camry in Lagos, Nigeria, it’s important to be aware of some common issues associated with the car. Despite conducting your usual checks, it’s crucial to specifically look out for these problems in a Camry:
- Starter Failure
One of the major problems reported with the Toyota Camry is starter failure, with many owners finding that their cars wouldn’t start suddenly. While this may seem random, there are a few main reasons why it could happen. The most common cause is usually a dead battery, followed by potential issues with the alternator or starter.
- Brake Malfunction Issues
Some Camry owners have reported brake problems, like brakes not working sometimes, which can be risky as it might make it hard to control the car. Another issue is the ABS light staying on. ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking when you brake hard. If this light is on, it means the system might not work right when you need it. It’s not safe to drive like this, even though you technically can.
- Transmission Problems
Newer Camry models have seen more reports of transmission issues. These problems show up as delays when shifting gears, the car stalling, grinding or jerking when accelerating in low gears, shaking while driving, a strange burning smell, or whistling sounds from under the hood. Even if you haven’t noticed these symptoms, a drop in fuel economy could also signal a transmission problem with your Toyota Camry.
Conclusion
The Toyota Camry has been a favourite car since it first appeared in the 1980s. With its stylish design, roomy interior, impressive fuel efficiency, and well-known reliability, it’s no wonder it’s still one of the top-selling vehicles today.
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