Throughout its long history, one thing has remained constant in the NASCAR stockcar racing series – it has been strictly a domestic gig. A number of drivers started racing Toyota Tundras in the truck series a few years back, but the import arm had been unable to penetrate the top echelon of NASCAR, namely Nextel Cup. Until now. As true fans are undoubtedly aware, Michael Waltrip, Dale Jarrett, and others enter the 2007 season in Toyota Camrys. Of course, these big-name drivers won’t be depending on the stock front-wheel-drive Camry’s 158-horsepower four-cylinder or 268-horsepower V6 engines. Prices range from about $18,500 for a base model to $28,000 for an XLE V6.

Some welcome the competition and increased exposure the brand is expected to shine on NASCAR, while others openly reject the inclusion of Japan-based Toyota in this red, white, and blue racing series; some even claim that deep-pocketed Toyota will be buying its way into the 2007 Chase. Time will tell if that idea holds merit, but until then, we suggest sticking to business and adhering to the elder Waltrip’s mandate – “Let’s go racing boys!”

Photos courtesy of the manufacturers