2021 Toyota Camry vs 2022 BMW 2 Series

The 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to break away from its past reputation of being a bland, textbook example of a sedan. Designers infused the model with a variety of styling details to make it more exciting. Some elements, like the flared wheel arches and slim headlights, successfully gave the car a wider appearance. However, trims like the SE, XSE, and TRD were criticized for their excessive use of fake vents, adding unnecessary visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims offered a slightly cleaner look with a different grille design. The interior mirrored the exterior's chaotic styling, with a mix of contrasting materials and elements that lacked a cohesive design theme. Despite the low-rent feel of some materials, the Camry's interior was functional, though not particularly luxurious.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, on the other hand, presented a fresh exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 2 Series was available in several configurations, including the RWD 230i Coupe and AWD M240i xDrive Coupe. The design featured a wider kidney grille and triangular air curtains, contributing to a leaner, more aerodynamic look. The M240i xDrive Coupe boasted performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents. Inside, the 2 Series offered a straightforward, driver-focused layout with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The interior exuded a high-end vibe, though some areas were marred by cheaper plastics. Overall, the 2 Series combined sporty aesthetics with a touch of luxury.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, known as the Dynamic Force, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in most trims. The XSE trim saw a slight increase in output with a dual-exhaust system. A 3.5-liter V6 engine was also available, delivering 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The Camry Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with electric assist for a total of 208 horsepower. The Camry's chassis struck a balance between handling and ride quality, offering a surprisingly engaging driving experience. The TRD model, with its V6 engine and chassis upgrades, further enhanced the sporty feel. The AWD system, derived from the RAV4, provided additional traction without compromising interior space.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series packed a punch with its turbocharged engines. The 230i Coupe featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive Coupe boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved the same in just 4.1 seconds. Both models were equipped with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission. The M240i xDrive came standard with performance features like an adaptive M suspension and M Sport brakes, enhancing its dynamic capabilities. However, the 2 Series was criticized for its lack of steering feel and driver engagement, despite its impressive performance figures.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered generous rear headroom and legroom, though front space was slightly compromised. The seats were comfortable and supportive, with excellent outward visibility. Cargo space was average at 15.1 cubic feet, and in-cabin storage was limited. The Camry featured analog controls for essential 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 2022 BMW 2 Series, being a coupe, had limited rear seat space, suitable mainly for children or short trips. The front seats were relatively spacious, but the slanted roofline restricted rear headroom. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added flexibility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the sport steering wheel and a layout similar to other BMW models.

The 2021 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, WiFi, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display was available on the XSE and XLE trims. The infotainment system was functional but lacked standout features.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series boasted an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, with the iDrive 7 operating system and cloud-based navigation. A WiFi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard. The optional Live Cockpit Professional included a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The 2 Series also offered remote features like the BMW Digital Key and a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon system.

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. It came standard with the TSS 2.5+ package, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. New features included enhanced adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning capabilities. A Rear Seat Reminder was also standard, along with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured the Active Driving Assistant suite, with standard blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. Additional safety features included a rearview camera, park distance control, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included adaptive front LED headlights, a 360-degree surround view, and the BMW Drive Recorder. The 2 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.