2021 Toyota Camry vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to break away from its past reputation of being a bland, generic sedan. Designers infused the model with a variety of styling details to make it more exciting. Some elements, like the flared wheel arches and thin headlights, successfully widened the car's appearance. However, the SE and XSE trims were criticized for their fake vents, which added unnecessary visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims featured a different, albeit still large, grille. The 2021 model was built on the TNGA-K platform, shared with other Toyota models like the Avalon and RAV4. The TRD performance package offered unique styling elements, including a larger rear spoiler, while the Nightshade Edition continued with blacked-out trim and wheels. Inside, the chaotic styling continued with a mix of materials and trim elements, resulting in a low-rent feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD caught attention with its exclusive Cavalry Blue paint, a new addition for the model year. This paint was one of the few changes, alongside standard heated side mirrors for all trims and a new Nightshade Edition for the SE Hybrid. The 2022 Camry offered 13 different versions, with prices ranging from $27,750 to $41,390. The TRD model stood out with its aerodynamic body kit, matte-black wheels, and red accents. Despite its bold appearance, the underlying design remained polarizing. The interior featured an unusual dashboard layout and driver-oriented centre console, but the red gauge illumination and other red accents were seen as tacky. The Camry TRD's styling was considered over-the-top, but its dynamic tuning was appreciated.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque with FWD, and slightly less with AWD. The XSE models had a dual-exhaust system, increasing output slightly. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard across the board. Toyota also offered a 3.5-litre V6 with 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, as well as a hybrid powertrain with a total output of 208 horsepower. The SE Nightshade Edition, with its base four-cylinder and AWD, surprised with its sporty nature and pleasant engine sound. The chassis struck a balance between handling and ride quality, making it enjoyable to drive. The TRD package, introduced in 2020, added performance upgrades like stiffer suspension and bigger brakes.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and FWD. It included a Sport transmission mode and paddle shifters for a more engaging drive. The TRD model boasted track-tuned dynamics, with increased torsional rigidity, reworked suspension, and larger brakes. Despite its sporty nature, the TRD model lacked AWD, making it easy to lose traction. The car felt solid and planted, with communicative suspension and excellent brake feel. The TRD's performance matched its bold styling, offering a thrilling driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Camry provided generous rear headroom and legroom, but front space was below average. The front seats were adjustable and comfortable, with excellent visibility. Cargo space was 428 litres, average for the segment but less than the Honda Accord. In-cabin storage was limited, with small cupholders and door bins. The car featured analog controls for key functions, though some were hard to reach. Higher trims offered dual-zone automatic climate control.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD had front seats with red accents and logos but no added bolstering. The sporty driving position and lack of body roll kept occupants stable. The back seat accommodated two adults comfortably, but the TRD model lacked rear-seat air vents and had a fixed rear seatback, reducing cargo flexibility. The trunk offered 428 litres of space, smaller than some competitors. However, the Camry compensated with generous in-cabin storage, including a large centre armrest bin.

The 2021 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display was available on XSE and XLE trims. The infotainment system was functional but lacked standout features, with plain graphics and limited USB ports.

The 2022 Toyota Camry featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The TRD and XSE trims had a 9-inch display with additional subscription services and a JBL audio system. The system lacked dynamic navigation and voice recognition, but smartphone integration provided alternatives. Other models offered a head-up display and surround-view monitoring, but not the TRD.

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. It featured the TSS 2.5+ package with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and more. New enhancements included improved forward-collision warning and a Rear Seat Reminder. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota Camry also received top safety ratings. It included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. Blind-spot monitoring was standard on TRD and XSE trims. Safety Connect offered emergency assistance and other services, free for the first year. The Camry's safety features provided peace of mind, despite some minor irritations with lane-keeping assist.