Description:
You might be wondering why Daihatsu is selling a version of the new Toyota Camry in Japan, using a nameplate reserved for ASEAN versions of the Corolla. The fact of the matter is that the small car specialist has been doing so for years, starting with the fourth-gen XV20 Camry – so it’s hardly a break in tradition.

As you can see, the Altis is virtually unchanged from the Camry, with the only difference being blue-tinged Daihatsu badges instead of the Toyota logo. The low-slung, wide-mouthed “Keen Look” design and driver-focused interior all remain identical to the donor car.

Also identical is the hybrid powertrain, beginning with the 2.5 litre four-cylinder engine with D-4S direct-injection (part of the new Dynamic Force family) that pushes out 178 PS and 221 Nm of torque. Mated to this is a 120 PS/202 Nm electric motor, adding to a total system output of 211 PS.

Strangely, Daihatsu quotes a fuel consumption figure of 28.4 km per litre, significantly lower than the Camry’s 33.4 km per litre. Unlike the Camry, the Altis is only available in mid-spec G trim, priced at the same 3,499,200 yen (Php 1,667,506) as the Camry G.

Standard kit includes LED head-, fog and tail lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, push-button start, a seven-inch multi-info display, fabric upholstery, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control with ionisation and six speakers (there’s no infotainment system as standard).

The Altis also comes with Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, active cruise control, lane departure warning with steering control, rear cross traffic alert and intelligent clearance sonar to protect against pedal misapplication and rear cross traffic auto brake. Blind spot monitoring is available as an option.