2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The 2022 BMW 3 Series offered a range of models, including the 330i, 330e, M340i, M3, and M3 Competition, with prices starting at $44,990 and reaching up to $93,500, excluding a $2,480 destination charge. Each variant featured a distinct powertrain, with the 330i xDrive sedan and 330e equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the latter incorporating plug-in hybrid technology. The M340i boasted a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, enhancing performance and handling. The M3 and M3 Competition represented the high-performance end of the lineup. The M340i xDrive, tested in Barbera Red paint, featured Cognac-colour SensaTec upholstery and options like the Advanced Driver Assistance package, Premium Enhanced package, and Adaptive M Suspension, bringing the price to nearly $80,000. The M340i's exterior design included exclusive grille and bumper designs, Shadowline trim, and 19-inch wheels, resulting in an appealing style and impressive performance. Inside, the SensaTec upholstery and dashboard wrap provided an upscale look, with quality materials and a design focused on driving enjoyment.

The 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly the TRD model, caught attention with its Cavalry Blue paint, a new addition for 2022. The Camry lineup included 13 versions, with prices ranging from $27,750 for the base LE to $41,390 for the XSE V6. Engine options included a four-cylinder, a V6, and a hybrid powertrain. The TRD model, priced at $37,040, featured an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and a gloss black grille. Despite its bold styling, the Camry TRD's interior was less polarizing, with a driver-oriented centre console and an unusual dashboard layout. However, the red gauge illumination and other red accents were considered tacky. The Camry TRD's styling was seen as trying too hard, but its dynamic tuning was appreciated.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode, paddle shifters, and launch control, with power delivered to the rear wheels through an M Sport differential. The xDrive AWD system was standard in Canada. The M340i included M Sport brakes, variable sport steering, and an M Sport suspension, with an optional Adaptive M Suspension enhancing driving dynamics. BMW claimed a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.3 seconds. The M340i offered a thrilling driving experience, with precise handling and impressive performance, making it a benchmark for sports sedans.

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, paddle shifters, and a Sport driving mode. The Camry TRD's fuel consumption was rated at 9.4 L/100 km, with an observed average of 9.5 L/100 km. The TRD model boasted track-tuned driving dynamics, with increased torsional rigidity, reworked suspension, and larger brakes. The Camry TRD delivered remarkable performance for its price, with a solid and planted feel, though FWD limited its traction. The suspension provided a communicative ride, and the brake system performed well.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i offered power-adjustable front sport seats with excellent support and a perfect driving position. Rear seat passengers had adequate legroom, though the centre rear seat was less practical. The M340i featured a three-zone automatic climate control system, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The 481-litre trunk provided ample cargo space, with a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. However, a sports wagon variant was not available in North America.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD's front seats lacked additional bolstering but provided a sporty driving position and power height adjustment. The back seat accommodated two adults comfortably, though it lacked rear-seat air vents and a folding seatback. The TRD's trunk offered 428 litres of cargo space, smaller than competitors. However, the Camry compensated with generous in-cabin storage, including a large centre armrest bin.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series offered the optional Digital Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The iDrive 7.0 system was intuitive, with multiple control options, including gesture control. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system, with a 16-speaker Harman Kardon system available. The Connected Package Pro included BMW Remote Services and the Intelligent Personal Assistant. A head-up display and advanced driver assistance features were available.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Camry TRD featured a 9-inch touchscreen with additional subscription services and a JBL premium audio system. Toyota did not offer dynamic navigation or voice recognition in the TRD, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided alternatives. Other Camry models offered a head-up display and a surround-view monitoring system, but not the TRD.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included Active Guard, with forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included Traffic Jam Assistant and Emergency Stop Assistant. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Camry featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard on the TRD. Safety Connect was standard, offering collision notification and emergency assistance. The Camry received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.