TOYOTA is claiming class-leading running costs for the latest version of its new executive contender - the Camry. Figures from David Henley Systems puts the Camry well ahead of the competition from volume and prestige car-makers in the executive segment.

The 2.2 Camry costs 28.02 pence per mile over three years compared with 30.66ppm for the Mercedes E200 2.0 Classic, 33.49ppm for the Vauxhall Omega 2.0 GLS and 33.80ppm for the Ford Scorpio 2.3 Ghia. The larger 3.0 V6 performs equally efficiently in the cost of ownership stakes. At 36.55ppm, it is cheaper than the comparable Omega 3.0 V6 CD (39.93ppm), Rover 800 SLi (40.87ppm) and the BMW 528i SE (41.70ppm).

Standard equipment on the £19,599 entry level Camry 2.2 includes twin airbags, ABS, electric windows all round, remote central locking, leather trimmed steering wheel and wood-effect fascia. Specially developed for the British market, the Sport features Connolly leather trim, 17-inch alloy wheels, lowered suspension and a bodykit and will be available in the UK in January at around £23,200.