Audi A6 vs Toyota Camry

The 2026 Toyota Camry was available in Canada in four trim levels, with prices ranging from $36,935 to $47,690, including destination charges. The SE Upgrade AWD trim with the Nightshade package, priced at $40,630, featured trendy satin black 19-inch wheels and gloss black exterior detailing, available only in white, Midnight Black, or Supersonic Red. Despite updates in styling, powertrain, and technology in 2025, the Camry retained its lineage to the 2018 model, giving it a slightly dated appearance. Inside, the Nightshade mirrored the SE Upgrade with a black interior, SofTex artificial leather upholstery, and fabric accents, making it a more pleasant environment despite some inexpensive plastic.

The 2026 Audi A6, while handsome, was not visually striking compared to competitors like the Cadillac CT5. It featured a lower "singleframe" grille, fender flares, and a pronounced rib in the lower door skins. The A6 had LED headlights with a pixelated effect and programmable taillights, though the symbols were similar and less noticeable than the hazards. Available in base, Progressiv, and Technik trims, the A6 lacked the S6 variant but incorporated features from sportier models. The S Line Black package added sportier elements, while the Sport Plus Package included 21-inch wheels and summer tires. Despite these enhancements, the materials felt bland and cheap, detracting from the overall premium feel.

The 2026 Toyota Camry transitioned to a hybrid-only powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motors to produce 225 horsepower in FWD models and 232 hp in AWD versions. Fuel economy ranged from 5.0 to 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres, with the FWD Camry averaging 5.3 L/100 km on a test loop. The Camry's TNGA platform provided a balance of ride and handling, though it lacked the communication and sophistication of the Honda Accord Hybrid. The hybrid system's eCVT was less satisfying than a traditional automatic, but the Camry's performance was deceptively fast on winding roads.

The 2026 Audi A6 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 362 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and standard quattro AWD. The A6 accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, faster than base models of the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. The transmission hesitated under heavy throttle, but shifts were smooth at speed. The Sport Plus package included a sport rear differential and rear-axle steering, enhancing handling but compromising ride quality. The A6 was stable and composed, better suited for highway driving than tight corners.

The 2026 Toyota Camry offered comfortable front seats with power height adjustment, wrapped in SofTex artificial leather with fabric inserts. Taller drivers found ample seat-track travel, and heated front seats, steering wheel, and side mirrors were standard. The back seat provided adequate space and support, with rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. However, trunk space was limited to 428 litres, with intrusive hinges and no inside grab handle.

The 2026 Audi A6, six centimetres longer than its predecessor, maintained the same wheelbase, offering comparable headroom and legroom to the BMW 5 Series. The panoramic glass roof increased front-seat headroom, while rear-seat occupants enjoyed climate controls and USB-C ports. Heated and ventilated front seats were standard, with an available massaging function. The trunk, with 382 litres of space, was smaller than the previous generation but larger than competitors like the CT5 and E-Class.

The 2026 Toyota Camry featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and connected services plans. The larger 12.3-inch touchscreen was available on higher trims, offering cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant. The system included a volume knob but lacked a tuning knob, with various methods for station selection. Safety Connect, with automatic collision notification and emergency assistance, was a standout feature.

The 2026 Audi A6 introduced the Digital Stage setup with an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.5-inch touchscreen, complemented by an optional 10.9-inch front-passenger screen. The MMI infotainment system was oversimplified, with small text and inconvenient pop-up menus. An interface update was planned for mid-year, adding a dashcam and new steering wheel. The optional Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system featured headrest speakers for navigation directions.

The 2026 Toyota Camry came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Driving Assist monitored following distances, while a stopping assist system engaged when the driver was unresponsive. The Camry received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS.

The 2026 Audi A6 included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and other driver-assist features. The lane centring feature allowed some wobble, but robust driver monitoring was included. Crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable at the time of writing.