2022 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid continued to uphold its reputation as a reliable family sedan, a status it had maintained since the mid-1990s. Despite minimal changes for 2022, the Camry Hybrid surprised with its futuristic and expressive exterior design. The front end featured a bold, sneering face with muscular features, complemented by alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches depending on the trim. Inside, the Camry Hybrid boasted a similarly futuristic dashboard with a sweeping curve 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.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta received a subtle makeover, with changes that were almost imperceptible at first glance. The exterior updates included a redesigned front fascia, bumper, and grille with more chrome accents, as well as new wheel designs and metallic colours. The Jetta's interior also saw subtle improvements, with a focus on ergonomics and a driver-centric layout. The cabin offered comfortable seating for four adults, with a slight incline on the front seat cushions for thigh support. The Jetta's technology upgrades included a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and an 8-inch infotainment system on higher trims, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid was designed for fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for those looking to minimize trips to the gas station. The entry-level LE model achieved impressive fuel consumption ratings of 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 4.8 on the highway. The hybrid system combined a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering a total of 208 horsepower. The electronically controlled CVT sent power to the front wheels, with paddle shifters available on SE and XSE models. While the Camry Hybrid offered good handling and a lower centre of gravity, it was challenging to maintain EV mode, and some drivetrain noise was noted.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Jetta offered a choice between a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard. The Jetta's fuel economy was commendable, with the manual version rated at 8.0 L/100 km city and 5.5 highway. On a long road trip, the Jetta averaged 5.0 L/100 km on the highway. However, the powertrain had its drawbacks, with a touchy throttle and some turbo lag. The Jetta's drive modes offered limited engagement, and the steering feedback was detached.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid excelled in providing a comfortable and versatile driving experience. The seating position was reasonable and adjustable, accommodating a range of driver preferences. The interior offered ample storage options, including a spacious glove compartment and various nooks throughout the dash. The second row was easy to access and provided generous space, with bottle holders and map pockets. The Camry Hybrid's trunk space remained at 428 litres, with a passthrough for long items and foldable rear seats for additional cargo capacity. Toyota's warranty coverage included a three-year/60,000-kilometre basic warranty and a 10-year/240,000-kilometre hybrid battery warranty.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta, despite its compact size, offered ample passenger space for four adults, with the option to accommodate a fifth. The cabin was designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring easily accessible controls for climate, audio, and seating. Storage options included door pockets, a centre console bin, and a sunglass holder. The centre storage bin, while not large, was functional, though the lack of a latch on the compartment cover was unusual. The Jetta's interior was practical and user-friendly, with a focus on driver convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid was equipped with advanced technology features, including a premium JBL audio system on the XLE model, with nine speakers and sophisticated algorithms for enhanced audio quality. All models came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the LE and a 9-inch touchscreen on other trims. The Camry Hybrid also featured a smart key system, push-button start, and a projected-path rearview camera. Higher trims offered a 10-inch head-up display and additional luxury features, bringing the Camry Hybrid close to Lexus levels of tech.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta received significant technology upgrades, with all models featuring a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster. The Comfortline and Highline trims offered an 8-inch infotainment system, while the Highline boasted a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. The Jetta's infotainment system supported Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MirrorLink integration, with Bluetooth and multiple USB-C ports. The Highline trim also included premium Beats Audio and a remote start system, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The Camry Hybrid also featured Toyota's Star safety system, with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The vehicle was equipped with 10 airbags and a blind-spot monitor on all but the base LE trim. The Camry Hybrid received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta offered forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian recognition as standard. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Jetta's Travel Assist and Emergency Assist features provided additional driver support. However, the Jetta fell short of a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS due to an Acceptable score in the side crash test and varying headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded the Jetta a five-star overall safety rating.