2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid continued to uphold its reputation as a reliable family sedan, maintaining the design elements introduced in its 2018 generation with minimal changes. Its exterior was noted for a futuristic and expressive front end, featuring a sneering face and muscular features. The base model came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while higher trims offered 18-inch and 19-inch options. Inside, the Camry Hybrid boasted a wild dashboard design with a sweeping curve, a large infotainment touchscreen, and a spacious second row that provided comfort even for the middle seat. Toyota's high level of fit and finish was evident, with quality materials and smooth, glossy paint.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid introduced new styling elements, such as the Reservoir Blue paint and the Nightshade Edition's matte-bronze 19-inch alloy wheels, which added a fresh appeal to the lineup. The Nightshade Edition, available with SE trim, featured black-trimmed headlights and taillights, a TRD mesh grille, and black accents. However, the interior retained the same SE-spec design from previous years, with some criticism regarding the use of cheap-looking plastics and road noise intrusion. Despite these drawbacks, the Camry Hybrid's pricing remained competitive, offering a balance between cost and features.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid was designed for fuel efficiency, with entry-level LE models achieving impressive fuel consumption ratings of 4.9 L/100 km in the city and 4.8 L/100 km on the highway. It featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a total system power of 208 horsepower. The hybrid system used an electronically controlled CVT to power the front wheels, with paddle shifters available on SE and XSE models. The Camry Hybrid's handling was praised for its lower centre of gravity, providing a more engaging driving experience compared to its gasoline-only counterpart. However, maintaining EV mode proved challenging, and some drivetrain noise was noted.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid offered a similar powertrain, with a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle engine, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery pack, also producing 208 horsepower. The hybrid system simulated a CVT with six programmed ratios, and paddle shifters were available on sportier trims. Despite Toyota's claims of fuel efficiency, the test car averaged 7.0 L/100 km, falling short of expectations. The hybrid's electric assist motor provided quick acceleration, and the regenerative braking system offered better-than-expected pedal feel. The SE Nightshade's sport suspension tuning delivered predictable handling, though the stability control system was sensitive during dynamic driving.

The 2022 Camry Hybrid excelled in providing a comfortable driving position with ample headroom and adjustable seating options. The interior offered generous storage spaces, including a spacious glove compartment and various nooks throughout the dash. The second row was roomy and easy to access, with bottle holders and map pockets adding convenience. The trunk provided 428 litres of space, with a passthrough for longer items and foldable rear seats for larger cargo. Toyota's warranty coverage was comprehensive, with a 10-year/240,000-kilometre hybrid battery warranty.

The 2023 Camry Hybrid maintained a simple and user-friendly interior design, with standard features like keyless entry, push-button start, and dual-zone climate control. The front seats offered eight-way power adjustment for the driver and manual adjustment for the passenger, with durable SofTex upholstery. However, rear passenger space was less generous compared to competitors, and the lack of rear air vents was noted. Trunk space remained at 428 litres, accommodating full-size suitcases, though it was smaller than some rivals. The absence of a trunk handle was a minor inconvenience.

The 2022 Camry Hybrid was equipped with advanced technology, including a premium JBL audio system on XLE models, featuring nine speakers and sophisticated audio processing. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the LE and a 9-inch screen on higher trims. The XLE offered embedded navigation and a 10-inch head-up display, along with other luxury features like a bird’s-eye view camera and ventilated seats.

The 2023 Camry Hybrid offered a choice between a 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, both supporting smartphone connectivity. The larger system included a JBL sound system and connected navigation. Additional tech features included SiriusXM radio and various connected services with trial subscriptions. The test car had the basic 7-inch screen, with physical knobs and buttons for ease of use. Optional tech included a 7-inch driver information centre and a 10-inch head-up display, though these were not present in the test vehicle.

The 2022 Camry Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, featuring a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. It also included the Star safety system with stability control, traction control, and 10 airbags. The Camry Hybrid received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.

The 2023 Camry Hybrid also featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with similar safety technologies. However, the system's performance was less refined, with abrupt adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist issues. Despite these concerns, the Camry Hybrid maintained high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, though it received a Poor rating in the updated IIHS side-impact test.