2020 Toyota Camry vs 2021 Toyota Camry

The 2020 Toyota Camry had a renewed focus on quality and appeal, aiming to reclaim its status as a top contender in the midsize sedan market. Its styling was more expressive than previous models, with a bold front fascia and taut lines that gave it a sporty appearance. The design borrowed elements from luxury brands, with a character line across the doors and an upturned kink of the C-pillar reminiscent of BMW. Inside, the Camry used high-quality materials, and the driver-focused dashboard design made even the base trims feel upscale. The top trims featured leather and wood, aligning them with entry-level Lexus models. Despite not being a luxury or sport sedan, the 2020 Camry made strides in those directions, offering a starting price of $26,620.

The 2021 Toyota Camry worked to distance itself from its predecessors, which were often seen as generic. It featured styling elements like flared wheel arches and thin headlights and taillights that visually widened the car. However, the SE and XSE trims had fake vents that added visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims had a cleaner, though still large, grille. The interior mirrored the exterior's chaotic styling, with a mix of trim elements that lacked a cohesive design theme. Despite this, the Camry offered a comfortable and supportive seating experience with excellent outward visibility. The 2021 model maintained the same cargo space as the previous year, at 428 litres, which was average for the segment.

The 2020 Toyota Camry offered four powertrains, including a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with FWD or AWD, a 3.5-litre V6 with FWD, and a hybrid option. The V6 produced 301 horsepower and was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and powerful driving experience. The 2.5-litre engine delivered 203 hp (206 in XSE trim) and was lighter, offering a more engaging drive. The AWD system could send up to half of the engine's 184 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, improving traction without significantly impacting fuel efficiency. The FWD Camry had a combined fuel consumption rating of 7.6 L/100 km in XLE and XSE trims, increasing to 8.4 L/100 km with AWD.

The 2021 Toyota Camry continued with the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, offering 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque with FWD, and slightly less with AWD. The XSE trim had a dual-exhaust system, increasing output to 206 hp and 186 lb-ft with FWD. The V6 engine remained available, producing 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid model combined a 2.5-litre engine with electric assist for a total of 208 hp. The SE Nightshade Edition with AWD provided a surprisingly engaging driving experience, with responsive steering and a good balance between handling and ride quality. The TRD package, introduced in 2020, offered chassis upgrades for a sportier drive.

The 2020 Toyota Camry was user-friendly, with controls that were easy to reach and use. The front seats offered increased legroom and hip room, while the rear seat had reduced legroom and overall passenger volume. The trunk space was 428 litres, smaller than some competitors. The addition of AWD did not compromise interior space, as Toyota modified the floor structure and fuel tank to accommodate it.

The 2021 Toyota Camry provided generous rear headroom and legroom, though front space was below average. The front seats were adjustable and comfortable, with excellent visibility. Cargo space remained at 428 litres, and in-cabin storage was limited. Toyota included analog controls for key functions, improving ease of use, though some controls were a long reach from the driver's seat. Dual-zone automatic climate control was available on higher trims.

The 2020 Toyota Camry included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The system was functional but felt dated, with low-resolution graphics. An 8-inch screen was optional, and higher trims offered a 10-inch HUD. A single USB-A port and two charging ports were standard, with an optional Qi wireless charging pad. Remote Connect allowed smartphone access to lock/unlock doors and start the vehicle remotely.

The 2021 Toyota Camry featured a similar infotainment system, with a 7-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 9-inch screen, navigation, and a JBL audio system. The system was functional but lacked standout features. A single USB media port and two charge ports were standard, with no additional ports on higher trims.

The 2020 Toyota Camry included Toyota Safety Sense, with features like adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. A one-year trial of Safety Connect was included, and blind-spot monitoring was optional. The Camry received a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. A recall for leaking engine coolant affected some models.

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned similar safety ratings and included the new TSS 2.5+ package. Standard features were largely unchanged, but some systems had enhanced capabilities. New features included Rear Seat Reminder and improved adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was standard on higher trims and optional on others.