Chart Of The Day: The Toyota Camry Index
As Camry-fest rolls on, we found an interesting little chart over at Edmunds Autoobserver, which shows that this latest Camry has the lowest inflation-adjusted MSRP in the model’s history. Amid all the talk of record-high transaction prices, Toyota obviously thinks MSRP still matters, as Autoobserver reports
The current-generation Camry has a theoretical build of 1,246 combinations. The 2012 Camry will be available in a startlingly meager 36 combinations, because consumers have told Toyota they want a simpler ordering process… There will be four trim packages from which to choose, and despite the significant improvements in the model, any 2012 Camry will be priced close to or less than a comparably-equipped 2011.
The 2011 Camry L, the base model produced in very low volume and sold almost exclusively to fleets, starts at $20,195. The new 2012 Camry L will start at $21,995 (plus $760 for destination), the core 2012 Camry LE package for comfort and value will be priced at $22,500. The sportier Camry SE, currently priced at $22,965, will start at $23,000. The premium trim package Camry XLE ($26,725 for MY 2011), will start at $24,725, a $2,000 reduction. Toyota notes that comparably equipped, prices for all trim levels have dropped.
So, even though you need fewer inflation-adjusted dollars than ever before to buy a base Camry, very few of those models will be built. Toyota may be talking value, but in this market you need to shout it…
More by Edward Niedermeyer
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Who says cars are getting more expensive?! The 2012 has a base price that is essentially the same as the 1996, and much less in inflation adjusted terms? While we have given up some of the quality of the interiors over the last 15 years, we have more than made up for it in technology, safety, size etc.. Impressive. Love the inflation adjusted price charge. Make some more!
Dave M, please tell us how you avoid Gulf States' egregious price padding! Hereabouts, every car on the lot arrives with GS' added price sticker, which makes the MSRP a sham. Do they have to special order a car from the distributor? Or is the $550 you allow the dealer sufficient for not only dealer profit but also pay Gulf States' charge to the dealer for wax jobs?
People are forgetting about the added contents, like overall size and HP. Should have compared to an older Avalon or Maxima.