2022 Dodge Charger vs 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2022 Dodge Charger, despite its roots tracing back to a platform from 2005, presented a modern and menacing exterior design that was last heavily facelifted in 2015. Its interior, however, felt dated with thick bezels and chunky controls, reminiscent of a small-truck feel. While not cutting-edge, the cabin was user-friendly, offering ease of use over modernity. The Charger came in various trims, from the base SXT with a V6 engine to the high-performance Hellcat and Jailbreak variants, each offering a unique blend of power and features.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid, six years into its eighth generation, offered a more contemporary look with options like the Nightshade Edition featuring matte-bronze alloy wheels. The interior, while durable and straightforward, was criticized for its use of cheap-looking plastics and lack of refinement. Despite this, the Camry Hybrid provided standard features like keyless entry and dual-zone climate control, with options for heated and ventilated seats. The cabin was functional, though rear passenger space was limited compared to competitors like the Honda Accord.

The 2022 Dodge Charger offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 292 to 300 horsepower, depending on the trim. The R/T trim introduced a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with 370 hp, while the Scat Pack 392 boasted a 6.4-litre V8 with 485 hp. The Hellcat variants took performance to supercar levels with a supercharged 6.2-litre V8, delivering 717 hp in the standard Hellcat and up to 807 hp in the Jailbreak model. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available on V6 models. The Hellcat's acceleration was remarkable, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 315 km/h.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid, on the other hand, focused on efficiency with its 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine, electric motor, and lithium-ion battery, producing a combined 208 hp. The hybrid system simulated a CVT, offering a smooth driving experience with modes like Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport. Despite its focus on fuel economy, the test car averaged 7.0 L/100 km, falling short of its 4.9 L/100 km rating. The Camry Hybrid's electric assist provided quick acceleration from a stop, and its regenerative braking system offered better-than-expected pedal feel.

The 2022 Dodge Charger, a large sedan, offered ample legroom in both rows, though headroom was limited, especially in the rear. Storage space was less accommodating, with a smaller centre console and door bins. The trunk provided 467 litres of space, though its design made loading large items challenging. Despite these limitations, the Charger offered sports-car performance with the practicality of a four-door sedan.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid prioritized simplicity and durability, with standard features like keyless entry and dual-zone climate control. The front seats offered power adjustment for the driver and manual adjustment for the passenger, with a comfortable driving position. Rear passenger space was less generous, lacking air conditioning vents and offering limited legroom. The trunk provided 428 litres of space, smaller than competitors, but could accommodate full-size suitcases on their sides.

The 2022 Dodge Charger featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface. An 8.4-inch version was available on higher trims, offering larger icons and easier navigation. Both screens included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While not the most advanced, the Charger's technology was well-integrated with conventional controls.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid offered a choice between a 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, both with smartphone connectivity. The larger system included navigation and a JBL sound system. The test car's 7-inch screen was basic, with physical knobs and buttons for ease of use. Additional tech options included a driver information centre and head-up display, though the test car lacked these features.

The 2022 Dodge Charger lagged in standard safety features, offering only a backup camera and rear parking sensors. Optional features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Charger received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but scored a Marginal rating in the IIHS driver’s side overlap test.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the system lacked refinement, with abrupt braking and lane-keeping issues. The Camry received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though it scored poorly in the updated side-impact test.