6 August 2001: A revised Lexus model not available in Ireland is believed to show strong hints about the shape and specification of the next Toyota Camry.

The latest version of the Lexus ES300 was shown in the US last week, and has been developed under chief engineer Kosaku Yamada, who has been called 'the God of the Camry'. The ES300 has traditionally been based on the Camry and in markets where it is sold, it slots under the GS300.

The new ES300 is described as having 'European styling', with styling cues similar, for instance, to the new Peugeot 607. The next Camry is also expected to have the Peugeot-inspired headlights. The current 3-litre V6 used in both Toyota and Lexus cars will gain a five-speed automatic transmission.

The current Camry has a 2.2-litre option here, and while is an excellent car to drive and maintain, it has had less success than it deserves, largely because of 'bland' styling. However, the Camry has many years been the biggest-selling car in the US. BB