2021 Toyota Camry vs 2022 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to break away from its past reputation of being a generic sedan by incorporating more dynamic styling elements. Designers added features like flared wheel arches and sleek headlights to give the car a wider appearance. However, the SE and XSE trims included fake vents that cluttered the design, while the LE and XLE trims had a massive, albeit cleaner, grille. Built on the TNGA-K platform, the Camry shared its underpinnings with models like the Avalon and RAV4. The interior mirrored the exterior's chaotic styling, with a mix of materials and trims that lacked a cohesive design theme, resulting in a low-rent feel.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla, continuing from its 2019 hatchback and 2020 sedan launch, embraced bold styling to shed Toyota's "boring" image. It featured scowling LED headlights and a wide grille, though it couldn't match the eccentricity of the Hyundai Elantra or the cohesiveness of the Honda Civic. The SE and XSE trims sported an aggressive front fascia, while the Nightshade and Apex Editions added unique styling elements. Built on the TNGA platform, the Corolla shared structural elements with the Camry and RAV4. Inside, the Corolla offered a simple yet appealing design, though the piano black trim was prone to dust and smudges.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in FWD, slightly less in AWD. The XSE trim's dual-exhaust system increased output slightly. A 3.5-litre V6 engine with 301 hp was available, as was a hybrid version with 208 hp. The Camry's chassis balanced handling and ride quality well, providing a surprisingly engaging driving experience, even without the sporty TRD package. The AWD system, derived from the RAV4, could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla offered two engine options: a 1.8-litre four-cylinder with 139 hp for L, LE, and XLE trims, and a 2.0-litre engine with 169 hp for SE and XSE trims. The Apex Edition shared the 2.0-litre engine but added a sport exhaust. A CVT was standard, with a six-speed manual available for the 2.0-litre engine. The Apex Edition's suspension enhancements improved handling but compromised ride quality. While not a full performance model, the Apex Edition was more engaging than the standard Corolla, which prioritized comfort over excitement.

The 2021 Toyota Camry provided generous rear headroom and legroom, though front space was limited. The front seats were adjustable and comfortable, with excellent visibility. Cargo space was 428 litres, average for its class but less than the Honda Accord. In-cabin storage was limited, with small cupholders and door bins. The Camry featured analog controls for ease of use, though some were hard to reach.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla offered similar headroom and legroom to the Honda Civic, with a low beltline for better visibility. However, the steep windshield and deep dashboard hindered forward visibility. The driver's seat adjustments were limited for taller drivers, though a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel was standard. Cargo space was 371 litres, less than competitors, but a 60/40 split-folding rear seat was standard. The interior design limited storage space, with a thin centre console and small phone tray.

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. The interface was functional but lacked standout features, with plain graphics and limited USB ports.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla's infotainment system was outdated compared to rivals. A 7-inch touchscreen was standard on the base model, with an 8-inch screen on other trims. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth were standard, with a JBL audio system on higher trims. The interface was user-friendly but lacked wireless connectivity and modern features like a digital key.

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It featured the TSS 2.5+ package with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and more. New features included enhanced forward-collision warning and a Rear Seat Reminder. Blind-spot monitoring was available on higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla also received a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It included eight airbags and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with features like forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was standard on the LE trim and above.