In 2022, Toyota sold nearly 300,000 Camrys in the United States, making it the third best-selling vehicle of the year that was not a pickup truck. Similarly, the Toyota Corolla needs no introduction. With 12 generations spanning over five decades of production, the Corolla is the bestselling nameplate in automotive history.
In this detailed comparison, we'll help you decide which one is the better buy for your particular needs. We'll evaluate the vehicles' aesthetics, powertrains, interior and cargo space, technology, safety, and price.
2022 Toyota Camry vs 2022 Toyota Corolla: Toyota Sedans Compared
Look and Feel:
When it comes to looks and feel, the 2022 Toyota Camry and 2022 Toyota Corolla both offer distinctive styles that cater to different tastes.
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Camry as a 6 out of 10 in this department. The Camry TRD model, in particular, turns heads with its eye-catching Cavalry Blue paint, exclusive to this performance-tuned variant. This bold color is one of several updates for the 2022 model year. Other changes include standard heated side mirrors and dual-zone automatic climate control for most trims. There's also a new paint option called Ice Edge. Additionally, the SE Hybrid trim now offers a Nightshade Edition package, which blacks out exterior trim and wheels.
Our test car was the Camry TRD, which boasted a sporty appearance with aerodynamic bodywork, 19-inch matte-black wheels, and red accents.
Visually, the Camry TRD might be polarizing for some. The sporty design, highlighted by the bright blue paint and aggressive bodywork, certainly makes it stand out. However, it's a departure from the traditional conservative styling of past Camry models. The interior also takes a daring approach with an unusual dashboard layout and driver-oriented center console. While the Camry TRD offers a unique style, some might find the red gauge illumination, red floor mat embroidery, and red seatbelts a bit tacky.
On the other hand, the 2022 Toyota Corolla receives a rating of 7 out of 10 from CarGurus experts for its look and feel. The current-generation Corolla, which debuted as a 2019 model, showcases extroverted exterior styling with scowling LED headlights and a wide grille. Different trim levels offer various styling elements, such as an aggressive front fascia for SE and XSE models and blacked-out trim for Nightshade Editions. The Apex Editions, like our test car, sport a subtle body kit with bronze accents and model-specific 18-inch wheels, contributing to its street-racer vibe.
Both models strive to break away from the "basic transportation" stereotype associated with compact sedans, offering a more visually appealing and dynamic experience.
Performance:
When it comes to performance, the 2022 Toyota Camry and 2022 Toyota Corolla cater to different driving preferences.
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Camry as an 8 out of 10 in terms of performance. The Camry TRD, in particular, packs a punch with its 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD), it offers spirited acceleration and a pleasing exhaust note. Despite its power, it manages a respectable 25 mpg in combined driving, according to EPA ratings.
The Camry TRD stands out with "track-tuned" driving dynamics, featuring thicker underbody braces, stiffer sway bars, tauter springs, and TRD shocks. It also boasts larger and more responsive brakes, a sport dual exhaust system, and 19-inch matte-black alloy wheels wrapped in summer performance tires. The result is a Camry that feels solid, secure, and planted on the road. Its lower center of gravity enhances handling, making it a fun and agile car to drive on winding roads. While it may exhibit some understeer in sharp corners, it remains composed.
One drawback of the Camry TRD is its front-wheel-drive configuration, which can result in some wheel spin and tire squeal under hard acceleration. Nonetheless, the combination of a robust V6 engine and well-tuned suspension provides an enjoyable driving experience, especially for those seeking a sportier Camry variant.
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Corolla as a 7 out of 10 in terms of performance. The Corolla sedan offers two engine choices. The base 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine produces 139 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque, providing adequate power for daily driving. The SE and XSE models, however, come equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, boosting output to 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. The Apex Editions of the SE and XSE share this engine with a sportier exhaust system.
The manual transmission is available for 2.0-liter models, adding a level of engagement to the driving experience. However, it's important to note that the Corolla Apex Edition doesn't receive additional upgrades to the tires, brakes, or engine, making it more of a sporty appearance package than a high-performance model.
The Corolla's handling benefits from unique suspension tuning in the Apex Edition, which includes lower coil springs, solid stabilizer bars, and an increased spring rate. This setup results in more nimble and responsive handling, making the Corolla Apex Edition stand out from standard Corolla models. However, the sportier suspension does come at the expense of ride comfort, as it can be stiffer.
Overall, the Corolla offers a comfortable and predictable driving experience, but it may not deliver the same level of excitement as the Camry TRD, especially in terms of straight-line acceleration. It's a practical and efficient choice for daily commuting.
Form and Function
The 2022 Toyota Camry and 2022 Toyota Corolla differ in terms of form and function, providing distinct experiences for both drivers and passengers.
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Camry as a 5 out of 10 for form and function. The Camry TRD's front seats feature red accent stripes, red stitching, and embroidered TRD logos, but they don't offer additional bolstering compared to standard Camry SE seats. Despite this, the Camry TRD provides a low-slung, sporty driving position. The fabric seat inserts, tall center console, and minimal body roll in corners contribute to a stable and comfortable experience for occupants.
The Camry's interior may not be the roomiest among midsize sedans, but the back seat accommodates two adults comfortably. However, it's worth noting that the TRD model lacks rear-seat air vents, and the rear seatback doesn't fold down due to improved structural rigidity. As a result, the Camry offers a relatively small 15.1 cubic-foot trunk, which is smaller than some competitors in its segment.
On the bright side, the Camry compensates for its limited trunk space with generous in-cabin storage options. The center armrest bin is notably large, providing ample storage space. Other nooks and crannies throughout the cabin offer additional storage solutions.
The 2022 Toyota Corolla receives a rating of 6 out of 10 for form and function from CarGurus experts. In terms of interior space, Toyota hasn't released specific headroom and legroom measurements. However, the Corolla offers decent roominess, with a low beltline that improves outward visibility. However, like many compact sedans, it suffers from limited forward visibility due to a steeply raked windshield.
Toyota's redesign of the Corolla included lowering the driver's hip point and moving the driver's seat rearward for optimal positioning. While these changes enhance the driving experience, long-legged drivers may still find knee space somewhat constrained. Fortunately, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel comes standard, allowing for easy adjustments to achieve an ideal driving position. However, some may find that the front-seat and rear-seat cushions lack support.
In terms of cargo space, the Corolla sedan provides 13.1 cubic feet, which falls slightly behind rivals like the Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra. However, Toyota includes a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat as standard equipment, offering flexibility for cargo hauling. Certain trim levels also offer a power trunk release for added convenience.
The Corolla's sleek interior design, while visually appealing, limits storage space for smaller items. The center console is narrow, and the two cupholders, while functional, may not accommodate larger items. Additionally, the angled phone tray, with wireless charging available, may not be as useful for storing miscellaneous items.
In summary, both the 2022 Toyota Camry and 2022 Toyota Corolla offer unique characteristics and cater to different preferences. The Camry emphasizes a sportier design and more powerful performance, while the Corolla focuses on practicality and efficiency. Understanding your priorities and needs will help you choose the model that best suits your lifestyle.
Technology
CarGurus experts rate the technology in the 2022 Toyota Camry at 7 out of 10. While the Camry TRD comes equipped with a relatively modest 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, it's far from lacking in features. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM satellite radio, Safety Connect, and Wi-Fi Connect subscription services enhances connectivity options. For those seeking an upgrade, there's a 9-inch touchscreen display available. This larger screen retains physical knobs and buttons, and it can be paired with additional subscription plans, including Remote Connect and Service Connect, as well as a 9-speaker JBL premium audio system. The JBL system, known for its bass-heavy sound, offers good audio quality for the price point. However, it's worth noting that the Camry TRD does not offer Toyota's dynamic connected navigation and voice recognition technology, directing users to utilize voice assistants through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation.
CarGurus experts rate the technology in the 2022 Toyota Corolla at 6 out of 10. The Corolla's infotainment tech, while functional, isn't the most cutting-edge in its class. It starts with a 7-inch touchscreen on the base L model, but all other trim levels get an 8-inch touchscreen. Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM satellite radio, all supported by a six-speaker audio system. For audiophiles, a nine-speaker, 800-watt JBL audio system is available on select trims. The user interface is relatively user-friendly, featuring home buttons for each menu. Toyota has wisely retained analog climate controls for ease of use. However, some tasks, such as selecting a radio station, could be more intuitive, and the graphics appear dated compared to rivals. Additionally, wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not offered.
The Camry offers more advanced infotainment features and a larger optional screen, while the Corolla provides a functional but somewhat dated tech setup.
Safety
CarGurus experts rate the safety of the 2022 Toyota Camry at 9 out of 10. Every 2022 Camry comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of driver assist and collision avoidance features. Notable highlights include adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance, which can work together for a semi-autonomous driving experience on highways. The Camry also offers a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, available as an option on select trims. It's important to note that the Camry's lane-departure warning system can sometimes issue false warnings on uneven pavement, and the lane-centering assistance can feel overly assertive, particularly on curvy roads. Nevertheless, the Camry earns a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and high ratings from the NHTSA.
CarGurus experts rate the safety of the 2022 Toyota Corolla at 9 out of 10. Both the Corolla sedan and hatchback have earned the IIHS' highest safety award, the "Top Safety Pick+." They achieved top "Good" scores in all crash tests, although the Corolla's headlights received slightly lower ratings depending on the trim level. The NHTSA gave the 2022 Corolla sedan and hatchback models an impressive five-star overall safety rating, including high scores in frontal and side crash tests, with a four-star rating in rollover crash tests. The Corolla comes equipped with a robust suite of standard driver-assist features under the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 banner. These features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning with steering assist, automatic high beams, Lane Tracing Assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is available but not standard on all trims.
In terms of safety, both the Camry and Corolla shine, offering comprehensive safety technology and earning high marks from safety organizations.
Cost Effectiveness
CarGurus experts rate the cost-effectiveness of the 2022 Toyota Camry at 8 out of 10. The Camry checks off numerous boxes on a consumer's midsize sedan checklist. It offers comfort, affordability, reliability, safety, and efficiency. The Camry's hybrid option is especially noteworthy for its fuel efficiency. Toyota sweetens the deal by including complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first two years of ownership, along with free trial subscriptions for satellite radio and connected services. The Camry TRD, targeting driving enthusiasts, provides an affordable way to enjoy sportier driving dynamics without the high cost of the top-tier XSE V6 trim.
CarGurus experts rate the cost-effectiveness of the 2022 Toyota Corolla at 8 out of 10. The Corolla delivers solid fuel economy, with the 2.0-liter engine and CVT achieving up to 34 mpg combined. Additionally, the Corolla Hybrid stands out with an impressive 52 mpg combined rating. While it may not excel in one specific area, the Corolla offers a well-rounded package. Toyota's warranty coverage matches most competitors, providing a three-year, 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Pricing starts at a reasonable $21,200 for the base Corolla L and tops out at $29,475 for a loaded XSE Apex Edition.
In terms of cost-effectiveness, both the Camry and Corolla offer good value, with the Corolla providing excellent fuel efficiency options.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, both the 2022 Toyota Camry and the 2022 Toyota Corolla receive an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, indicating that they are evenly matched in several aspects.
Choose the 2022 Toyota Camry if:
- You prioritize advanced infotainment features and a larger touchscreen display.
- You seek a midsize sedan with a more powerful performance, especially in the Camry TRD configuration.
- You appreciate a comfortable, cost-effective, reliable, and efficient family car.
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Choose the 2022 Toyota Corolla if:
- Fuel efficiency is a top priority, especially the Corolla Hybrid with its exceptional mpg rating.
- You value a well-rounded compact car with good safety ratings and standard driver-assist features.
- You prefer the option of a manual transmission and a more affordable price point.
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In conclusion, the choice between the Camry and Corolla ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities, as both models offer attractive qualities in their respective segments.
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