What does 'Never overtake a Camry' mean?
2 Answers
Due to the Camry brake failure incident: A certain batch of Camry sedans had issues with frequent brake failures, making it unsafe to drive in front of them. Below are the relevant details: 1. Component design flaw: A design issue with a component in the vacuum booster pump could lead to problems such as stiff brakes, increased pedal effort, or even complete brake failure. 2. Frequent accidents: This caused even experienced drivers to frequently rear-end other vehicles or get involved in otherwise avoidable accidents. Many Camry owners filed complaints with China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ). After investigation, regulatory authorities concluded this was indeed a product defect in Camry vehicles. In 2009, Toyota initiated a massive recall of affected vehicles, which involved an astonishing number of Camry cars and shocked the industry at the time.
As an ordinary driver who frequently drives on highways, I find the saying 'You can't overtake a Camry' quite amusing. It essentially means that the Toyota Camry is exceptionally stable at high speeds, making it difficult for others to pass. This is mainly because the Camry's engine design is relatively conservative, and its acceleration response isn't particularly aggressive—stepping on the gas won't make it surge forward immediately. I once drove a Camry myself and tried to accelerate to overtake a large truck in the passing lane, but even with the pedal to the metal, the car just slowly picked up speed while other vehicles zoomed past me. This isn't necessarily a bad thing; the Camry's smoothness and fuel efficiency make it ideal for daily commuting—safe and economical. However, for those who enjoy spirited driving, it might feel a bit frustrating when seeking excitement. In such situations, I recommend checking the road conditions before attempting to overtake, choosing a safe distance to act, and avoiding forcing the maneuver.
