The 2021 Toyota Camry and 2021 Toyota Avalon, both stalwarts in Toyota's sedan lineup, offer distinct experiences to prospective buyers. While the Camry has traditionally been lauded for its reliability and practicality, the Avalon seeks to bridge the gap between the Camry and the more luxurious Lexus ES. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into their key differences in design, performance, and functionality to help you make an informed choice.
2021 Toyota Camry vs 2021 Toyota Avalon: Toyota Sedans Compared
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Camry at 6 out of 10 in terms of aesthetics. Toyota has put significant effort into giving the Camry a more exciting visual appeal compared to its earlier iterations. The design incorporates flared wheel arches and sleek headlights and taillights that widen the car's visual stance. However, some trim levels come with excessive fake vents that can clutter the look. Inside, the design feels somewhat chaotic, with various trim elements, though not a cohesive theme. Material quality is decent but leans towards being utilitarian.
The 2021 Toyota Avalon, rated at 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, strikes a balance between elegance and functionality. Its design is a bit polarizing, with front-bumper styling that some find reminiscent of braces on a person's teeth. Nevertheless, the Avalon's long and low profile exudes a sense of sophistication. Inside, it offers a well-thought-out interior with artfully stitched leather seats, color-matched materials, and real wood trim in the Limited trim. However, some interior plastics feel less premium than expected for a vehicle in this price range.
Performance
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Camry's performance at 9 out of 10, showcasing the brand's commitment to offering engaging driving experiences. The base model features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), producing 203 horsepower (206 hp for XSE models) and 184 pound-feet of torque. There's also an available 3.5-liter V6 engine with 301 hp. The Camry Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric assist for a total of 208 hp. Handling strikes a balance between sportiness and ride comfort, making it an enjoyable drive overall.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Avalon's performance at 6 out of 10. The Avalon offers the same two engine options, as the Camry, with the AWD version using the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 205 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. The Avalon also offers a 3.5-liter V6 with 301 hp, and there is a hybrid version (reviewed as a separate model) with 215 hp. The Avalon's handling is predictable, with comfortable ride quality, but it's not as sporty as some competitors. The AWD option is available for XLE and Limited trims.
Form and Function
The Camry scored an 8 out of 10 for form and function. It boasts ample rear headroom and legroom, but front headroom and legroom are slightly below average. However, the front seats offer adjustability, comfort, and support. Cargo space is around 15.1 cubic feet, slightly less than the Honda Accord. In-cabin storage is limited but expected for a sedan. The control layout is practical, with analog controls for essential functions. Dual-zone automatic climate control is available on higher trims.
Despite its larger size, the Avalon feels similar to the Honda Accord in terms of space. CarGurus experts rated it at 6 out of 10 for form and function. The front seats are comfortable but could benefit from better side bolstering. Rear-seat space is generous and on par with the Accord. The Avalon also provides ample storage space in the center console, though some may find the front headrest angle uncomfortable for extended drives. The trunk capacity is 16.1 cubic feet, slightly more than the Camry but less than the Accord.
Technology
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Camry's technology at 7 out of 10. The standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free voice control, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trim levels feature a 9-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display (HUD) is available on select trims. The interface is functional but not particularly flashy.
The 2021 Toyota Avalon earns a technology rating of 7 out of 10 from CarGurus experts. It comes with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Additionally, it offers a range of Toyota connected services, including Wi-Fi Connect, Safety Connect, Remote Connect, Service Connect, and Destination Assist. Some of these services come with a free year of access. An upgraded infotainment system includes dynamic navigation and a 14-speaker JBL sound system with Clari-Fi technology. The user interface is intuitive, and dynamic voice recognition is useful.
Safety
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Camry's safety at 9 out of 10. It has earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, the highest safety rating. The NHTSA gives it a five-star overall rating, with five-star ratings in front, side, and rollover crash tests. The Camry comes with the TSS 2.5+ package of safety features as standard, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and traffic-sign recognition. Toyota has enhanced the capabilities of these features, adding features like assisting with lane changes when using adaptive cruise control.
The 2021 Toyota Avalon's safety is rated at 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts. It comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P), including full-speed-range adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Avalon also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. In crash tests, it earns an overall five-star rating from the NHTSA and top scores from the IIHS.
Cost Effectiveness
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Camry's cost effectiveness at 8 out of 10. It offers competitive EPA-rated fuel economy, depending on the drivetrain and trim level. When new, pricing started at $25,965 for the base model, with a range-topping XSE V6 starting at $36,540. Toyota provides a three-year, 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Camry's reputation for reliability is a strong selling point.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Avalon's cost effectiveness at 3 out of 10. The Avalon faces challenges in the market due to the popularity of SUVs and the overlap in size and price with other sedans like the Honda Accord. Pricing when new started significantly higher than the Camry, making it a questionable value for some buyers. While it includes free scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, it may not justify the premium over other options.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Toyota Camry is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Avalon scores 6 out of 10.
Choose 2021 Toyota Camry if:
- You prioritize cost-effective ownership with competitive pricing and good fuel economy.
- Advanced safety features and a strong safety record are important to you.
- You prefer a well-rounded sedan with a reputation for reliability.
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Choose a 2021 Toyota Avalon if:
- You seek a larger sedan with more luxurious features and a premium feel.
- Cutting-edge technology, including a 14-speaker JBL sound system, dynamic navigation, and connected services, appeals to you.
- You value a two-year free scheduled maintenance plan and are willing to pay a premium for a spacious, comfortable sedan.
Search for a 2021 Toyota Avalon on CarGurus
In summary, the 2021 Toyota Camry offers a more well-rounded and cost-effective package, making it the recommended choice based on CarGurus' ratings.
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