Toyota Camry vs Cadillac CT5

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 continued to build on the legacy of its predecessor, the CTS, with a design that was both appealing and comfortable. Sharing its platform with the CT4 and Chevrolet Camaro, the CT5 was known for its driving pleasure, although it fell short in sophistication compared to its rivals and had a notably small trunk. Over the years, the CT5 gained power and performance, with the 2025 model offering variants like Premium Luxury, Sport, CT5-V, and CT5-V Blackwing, priced between $56,833 and $123,848. The Premium Luxury trim, tested with options like a twin-turbocharged V6 and AWD, showcased a refreshed design with vertically stacked headlights and a bold front fascia. Inside, a new 33-inch display dominated the cabin, complemented by upscale climate control icons and a mix of luxurious materials, though some cheaper plastics were still present.

The 2026 Toyota Camry, offered in Canada in trims like SE FWD, SE Upgrade AWD, XLE AWD, and XSE AWD, ranged from $36,935 to $47,690. The Camry retained its lineage from the 2018 model, evident in its proportions and design elements, despite updates in styling, powertrain, and technology. The Nightshade version, with its satin black wheels and gloss black detailing, was available in limited colours, including Supersonic Red. Inside, the Camry featured SofTex artificial leather upholstery and fabric accents, creating a more pleasing environment. While inexpensive plastics were still present, they were less noticeable, making the Camry a comfortable and stylish choice for drivers.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and RWD. However, the optional twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6, producing 335 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque, provided a more exhilarating experience. The V6, coupled with AWD, added over $6,000 to the price and impacted fuel economy, averaging 12.6 L/100 km during testing. Despite being louder on the highway, the CT5 was effortless to drive, with features like Super Cruise enhancing the experience. In town, the V6 offered ample power, and parking was made easy with a high-definition surround-view camera system and semi-automated parking assist. The CT5's platform, shared with the Chevy Camaro, ensured a lively drive, though the Premium Luxury trim felt softer compared to sportier variants.

The 2026 Toyota Camry transitioned to a hybrid-only powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motors to produce 225 hp in FWD models and 232 hp in AWD versions. Fuel economy ranged from 5.0 to 5.5 L/100 km, with the FWD Nightshade test car averaging 5.3 L/100 km. The Camry's TNGA platform, introduced in 2018, provided a balance of ride and handling, though it lacked the communication and sophistication of the Honda Accord Hybrid. The hybrid system's eCVT, while efficient, resulted in a droning sound under hard acceleration. Despite this, the Camry proved quick and capable on winding roads, with the TNGA platform contributing to its agility. The Camry's driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and EV, allowed for a tailored driving experience, though the Sport mode offered minimal impact.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a comfortable road-tripping experience, though it was louder than preferred, and the front seats lacked side bolsters. However, features like heating, ventilation, and massage compensated for this. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom and thigh support, though headroom was limited. Interior storage was adequate, with a wireless smartphone charger conveniently located. The trunk, at 337 litres, was tight, with an uneven floor making it difficult to load suitcases flat. However, enclosed trunk hinges allowed for efficient use of space.

The 2026 Toyota Camry's front seats, wrapped in SofTex artificial leather with fabric inserts, were more comfortable than those in the Honda Accord, with power height adjustment for both front occupants. The Camry offered ample seat-track travel, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors as standard. The back seat provided adequate leg and foot room, though it wasn't as roomy as the Accord's. Storage space was limited in the rear, but the front offered large, useful storage areas, including a spacious bin beneath the centre armrest. The trunk, at 428 litres, was small for a midsize car, with luggage-crusher hinges posing a hazard when packing.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 featured a new 33-inch panoramic display with three screens, including a trip computer panel, digital instrumentation, and a wide infotainment touchscreen with Google Built-in technology. This system offered Google Assistant, Google Maps, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and connected services. The user interface was intuitive, with multiple interaction methods available. Additional tech included an optional head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, and standard Teen Driver technology.

The 2026 Toyota Camry came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and connected services plans. The U.S. test car had a 12.3-inch touchscreen, available only in XLE and XSE trims in Canada, with a Drive Connect subscription offering cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant. While the Intelligent Assistant performed well, it occasionally struggled with the wake phrase. Safety Connect, with features like automatic collision notification and emergency assistance, was deemed the most important connected service.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 was equipped with a comprehensive set of driving assistance systems, including a surround-view camera system and active blind-spot monitoring. Super Cruise, a standout feature, offered hands-free driving on approved roads, with a driver monitoring system ensuring attention. The CT5 received top five-star ratings from the NHTSA in all crash tests, including rollover resistance.

The 2026 Toyota Camry featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Driving Assist, part of TSS 3.0, monitored following distances and helped avoid obstacles. The Camry received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.