2022 Audi A4 vs 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2022 Audi A4 presented a clean and conservative aesthetic, serving as an ideal backdrop for its striking Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The classic five-arm rotor-design wheels added a touch of automotive design perfection. Inside, the A4 maintained a restrained elegance with black interiors accented by aluminum trim and metallic highlights, avoiding a cave-like feel. The dashboard seamlessly integrated air vents, and controls were clearly marked, enhancing usability. High-quality materials, a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit, and ambient lighting contributed to a sophisticated cabin, though the tablet-style touchscreen seemed somewhat out of place.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid surprised with its futuristic and expressive design. The front end featured a bold, sneering face with muscular lines, complemented by alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches. Inside, the Camry Hybrid continued its expressive theme with a dynamic dashboard design and a large infotainment touchscreen. The second row offered ample space and comfort, even for the middle seat, while Toyota's high level of fit and finish was evident throughout the vehicle, with smooth paint and quality materials.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options. The 40 TFSI model featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro Ultra all-wheel-drive. It achieved a fuel economy rating of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving and accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 6.5 seconds. The 45 TFSI model, tested here, delivered 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, with a sport suspension as part of the S-line package. It reached 100 km/h in about 5.4 seconds, with a fuel economy of 8.8 L/100 km combined. Despite premium gas requirements, the A4's driving modes and refined engine made for a joyful driving experience, though it didn't feel as fast as claimed. The Quattro Ultra AWD system provided stability, and the vehicle remained quiet and composed, even at high speeds.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid focused on fuel efficiency, with entry-level LE models achieving 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 4.8 on the highway. Other trims had slightly higher consumption rates. The hybrid system combined a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 208 horsepower. An electronically controlled CVT sent power to the front wheels, with paddle shifters available on SE and XSE models. Drive modes included EV, Eco, Normal, and Sport, though maintaining EV mode was challenging. The Camry Hybrid's handling benefited from a lower centre of gravity due to the battery placement, offering a sporty feel compared to crossovers. However, occasional drivetrain droning and a focus on efficiency over responsiveness were noted.

The 2022 Audi A4, with its low ride height, posed challenges for entry and exit, compounded by small door openings and a snug cabin. However, once inside, the front seats offered exceptional comfort with soft leather, power adjustments, and a thigh-support cushion. The three-zone automatic climate control system was user-friendly, separate from the infotainment screen. Rear seating was adequate for adults, though legroom was limited, and hard plastic seatbacks were unfriendly to knees. Interior storage was limited, with the centre console bin occupied by a wireless charging pad. The 340-litre cargo space was well-finished, with enclosed hinges and storage nets.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid excelled in ride height and seating position, offering a comfortable driving experience. The driver and front passenger seats provided ample storage options, including a spacious glove compartment and various dash nooks. The second row was easy to access and roomy, with generous bottle holders and map pockets. The Camry Hybrid's 428-litre trunk space matched the standard Camry, thanks to the low-mounted battery pack. A passthrough and foldable second row accommodated larger items. Toyota's warranty coverage was comprehensive, with specific hybrid components covered for up to 10 years.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured the MIB3 version of Audi Multi-Media Interface (MMI) with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. While the screen's placement was inelegant, the technology was intuitive, supporting smartphone-like functions and offering acoustic feedback. Features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Audi Connect services. The test car had navigation, wireless charging, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The MMI was easy to use, with a Home button for quick navigation. Voice recognition was accurate but slow, and the lack of physical controls was mitigated by intuitive user experience and voice controls. The Bang & Olufsen stereo impressed, though sound quality degraded at high volumes.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid boasted advanced technology, with a JBL-tuned audio system on XLE models, featuring nine speakers and sophisticated algorithms. Embedded navigation was available on XLE, while Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard. The LE had a 7-inch touchscreen, while other trims had a 9-inch screen. All models included a smart key system, push-button start, and a rearview camera with a projected-path feature. Automatic LED headlights and dual-zone climate control were standard. A 10-inch head-up display was available on XSE and XLE, along with additional luxury features.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered a range of safety features, with more available on higher trims. The Technik model included Audi Pre Sense with collision preparation, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centring assist were also included. Adaptive cruise control with Traffic Jam Assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system were part of the package. Matrix-design LED headlights provided excellent visibility. The A4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, Lane Tracing Assist, and automatic high beams. The Star safety system included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. The Camry Hybrid had 10 airbags, three-point seatbelts, and LATCH anchors for child seats. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert was standard on all but the base LE. The Camry Hybrid received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.