The 2018 Toyota Camry ASV70R represents a significant watershed moment in Australian automotive history. It was the first model year to arrive on our shores fully imported from Japan following the closure of local manufacturing, and with it came a complete reinvention of the nameplate. Gone was the purely utilitarian focus of the past; in its place arrived a vehicle built on the revolutionary Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA). This Ascent model is not merely a successor to the Camrys that came before it; it is a vastly superior machine that brought a level of structural rigidity, refinement, and handling competence that silenced the critics and delighted loyal owners.
Under the bonnet beats the heart of a legend: the 2.5-litre Dual VVT-i four-cylinder engine. While some competitors were downsizing to smaller, stressed turbo engines, Toyota stuck with this proven, naturally aspirated formula for the Ascent. It produces a healthy amount of power that is delivered in a linear, predictable fashion. It is an engine renowned not just for its longevity—often clocking up hundreds of thousands of kilometres without complaint—but for its impressive thermal efficiency. Paired with a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission, rather than a droning CVT, the driving experience feels connected and robust. The gearbox finds the right ratio intuitively, making highway merging effortless and city driving smooth.
The real revelation of this generation, however, is the way it drives. Thanks to the TNGA platform, the centre of gravity is significantly lower, and the chassis is far stiffer. The old floating sensation of previous generations has been replaced by a planted, secure feel on the road. The double-wishbone rear suspension setup, a feature usually reserved for premium sports sedans, ensures that the rear wheels track true through corners while absorbing bumps with sophistication. It manages to offer a compliant ride over Melbourne's tram tracks while maintaining composure if you find yourself on a winding country road.
Inside, the cabin design took a dramatic leap forward. The dashboard features a sweeping character line that separates the driver and passenger zones, creating a cockpit-like atmosphere. Materials were upgraded across the board, with soft-touch surfaces replacing the hard plastics of old. Space, a traditional Camry strength, is abundant. The rear legroom is limousine-like, easily accommodating three adults or bulky child seats with room to spare. The boot is cavernous, capable of swallowing luggage for a family holiday or the weekly grocery run with ease, reinforcing why this car has been the default choice for Australian families for decades.
Technology and safety were also democratized in this 2018 model. The Ascent comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, a package that includes autonomous emergency braking, lane departure alert with steering assist, and active cruise control. These are features that were often optional extras on luxury cars just a few years prior. Having active cruise control on a base model makes long freeway drives significantly less fatiguing, as the car automatically maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. It is a testament to Toyota's commitment to safety that these features are present regardless of the trim level.
Ownership of a Camry is often described as a relationship of silent gratitude. It is the car that starts every single morning, regardless of the weather. It is the car that asks for very little in terms of maintenance costs yet gives so much in terms of reliability. This 2018 Ascent offers the perfect blend of the traditional Toyota virtues we love—durability and resale value—wrapped in a modern, safe, and surprisingly enjoyable package. It is a sensible choice, certainly, but one that you can make with pride.
At MM Carz, we understand the importance of reliability. This 2018 Toyota Camry Ascent has been meticulously inspected to ensure it meets our high standards. It is a clean, honest example of Japanese engineering at its finest, ready to serve its next owner for many years to come.
Please note that all pricing excludes government fees and charges. We strongly recommend contacting us directly to confirm availability before visiting our showroom, as our inventory can change rapidly. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our listings, some specifications may vary.
It is the automotive equivalent of a golden retriever: loyal, friendly, totally unproblematic, and you will probably see about five others exactly like it every time you go to the park.
