Toyota made a fairly unusual move in introducing what they call 2014.5 Toyota Camry changes to their popular sedan at the start of this year. On the face of it, the 2014.5 Camry merely sees the introduction of a new paint color along with a reversing camera on all trim levels and some audio system upgrades. However, there is actually a less obvious, but far more important reason for the 2014.5 Toyota Camry changes – Safety.
The Hidden Change to the 2014.5 Camry
Initially the 2014 Toyota Camry fared poorly in one of the IIHS crash tests, called the small-overlap frontal crash test. As a result of this, the manufacturer revised and strengthened the Camry’s front end in late December/Early January. The latest test scores highlight the major improvements, and every Camry that includes the changes has been labelled with the 2014.5 moniker.
While this safety upgrade might be the primary reason for the 2014.5 Toyota Camry changes, the opportunity was taken to market the Camry as a new model with a few extra refinements.
The Other Changes
These extra refinements are also reflected in a slight price increase over the previous 2014 Camry. Here’s what you get for the extra dollars:
- Reversing camera added to all 2014.5 Camry versions
- Entune Infotainment System now standard on the L, LE, SE, SE Sport and LE Hybrid versions
- Higher trim levels include navigation and smartphone-like apps as part of the Entune system
- Clearwater Blue paint option replaced by Parisian Night Pearl
The rear-view camera image is displayed on the 6.1-inch infotainment screen to make for safer reversing by clearly showing any obstacles behind the car. Depending on the level of trim chosen when purchasing a 2014.5 Toyota Camry, one of three versions of the Entune Infotainment system will be included in the equipment on board. The three levels of Entune system are known as:
- Entune Audio
- Entune Audio Plus
- Entune Premium Audio
The new Parisian Night Pearl paint will be available for the 2014.5 Toyota Camry LE, and XLE models. Fortunately these 2014.5 Toyota Camry changes come with a price increase which shouldn’t prove prohibitive. On the lower trim levels, the purchase price is around $200 more than the earlier 2014 Camry.
Limbaugh Toyota of Birmingham, AL, stocks a range of new 2014.5 Toyota Camry sedans, if you’re in the area, we welcome you to come on in and take a look.
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