2020 Toyota Camry vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Toyota Camry had a renewed focus on quality and appeal, aiming to reclaim its status as a top contender in the sedan market. Its styling was more expressive than ever, with a bold front fascia and taut lines that gave it a sporty edge. The design borrowed cues from luxury brands, offering 13 exterior colour options, including a fashionable black roof. Inside, the Camry used high-quality materials, creating a driver-focused dashboard that elevated even the base trims. The top trims featured leather and wood, aligning them with entry-level luxury vehicles. Despite not being a luxury or sport sedan, the Camry's starting price of $26,620 made it a compelling choice for those seeking a balance of style and value.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in the SE and XSE trims, was arguably the most attractive version in recent history. It featured sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, with Celestite metallic paint adding to its appeal. However, some design elements, like the hood shut line and over-styled rear bumper, detracted from its overall look. The Corolla offered a range of trims, including a hybrid option, with prices ranging from $19,350 to $27,450 Canadian. The SE and XSE trims provided a sportier experience with a more powerful engine and different transmissions. The interior of the XSE was a significant improvement, featuring soft leatherette, padded door panels, and a minimalist design, though storage was somewhat limited.

The 2020 Toyota Camry offered four distinct powertrains, including a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with FWD and AWD options, a 3.5-litre V6, and a hybrid powertrain. 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 four-cylinder engine delivered 203 hp (206 in XSE trim) and was lighter, enhancing the steering feel. The AWD system, similar to the RAV4's, could send up to half of the engine's 184 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, improving traction in slippery conditions. Fuel consumption for the FWD Camry was 7.6 L/100 km, increasing to 8.4 L/100 km with AWD. The V6 models had a combined rating of 9.0 L/100 km, with slight variations for different trims.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE models featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The Dynamic Shift CVT, with paddle shifters and a Sport mode, provided a smooth driving experience, while a six-speed manual was available for the SE trim. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its low centre of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. The XSE demonstrated predictable handling, making it a competent compact car. Fuel efficiency was rated at 7.0 L/100 km combined, with our test averaging 7.6 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

The 2020 Toyota Camry was user-friendly, with most controls easily accessible. The centre console housed a shifter, cupholders, a cell phone tray, and a storage bin. Front legroom and hip room increased, but rear legroom and trunk space decreased compared to competitors. The trunk offered 428 litres of cargo space, similar to the Honda Civic. The addition of AWD did not compromise interior space, as Toyota modified the floor structure and fuel tank to maintain the rear seats and trunk size.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered upgrades over the SE, including SofTex leatherette seats, heated rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat. The front passenger seat lacked height adjustment but provided good support. Rear seat cushions were supportive but headroom and legroom were tight. The trunk offered 371 litres of cargo space, with no interior handle for closing. The Corolla hatchback, reviewed separately, provided 660 litres of space behind the rear seat.

The 2020 Toyota Camry added Android Auto compatibility, joining Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth as standard features. The infotainment system, though functional, felt dated with low-resolution graphics. The standard 7-inch screen could be upgraded to 8 inches, and a single USB-A port was available for phone use. Higher trims offered a 7-inch multi-information display and an optional 10-inch HUD. Remote Connect, available on some trims, allowed smartphone-based vehicle access and remote start.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth as standard, with a free year of Safety Connect services. The SE featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the XSE added Service Connect and Safety Connect. Remote Connect offered remote engine start and other features. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with knobs for volume and tuning, though the radio knobs could be more accessible.

The 2020 Toyota Camry included Toyota Safety Sense, with features like emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Safety Connect was available on all but the base model. Blind-spot monitoring was optional. The Camry earned a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. A recall for engine coolant leaks affected some models.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and more. Rear side-impact airbags were added, and blind-spot warning included rear cross-traffic alert. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance had minor issues, but overall performance was refined. The 2020 Corolla received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating, with re-testing required for the 2021 model due to new airbags.