Toyota Avalon vs Toyota Camry

The 2021 Toyota Avalon presented a mixed bag in terms of aesthetics. While its overall design was appealing, the front-bumper styling, particularly on the XSE Nightshade, XSE Hybrid, Touring, and TRD trims, drew criticism for resembling a mouth full of braces. This grillework was a point of contention, as it seemed to detract from the otherwise sleek and low-slung profile of the Avalon. Despite this, the interior was a highlight, offering a sophisticated ambiance with artfully stitched leather seats and real wood trim in the Limited model. The cabin's design was more special than a Camry, though not quite as luxurious as a Lexus ES, with some interior plastics feeling less premium than expected for the price.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in its TRD trim, turned heads with its bold Cavalry Blue paint and aggressive styling. This was a departure from the Camry's traditionally conservative design, and it seemed to resonate with younger audiences. The TRD model featured an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, and red accents, making it stand out. Inside, the Camry TRD offered a sporty driving position and an unusual dashboard layout. However, the red gauge illumination and other red interior accents were seen as tacky. While the Camry's design was polarizing, it was a welcome change from the blandness of previous models.

The 2021 Toyota Avalon offered three powertrains, with the new AWD system paired with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 205 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. While this setup provided decent performance, it lacked excitement. The standard 301-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine was more engaging, and the Avalon Hybrid delivered up to 44 mpg in combined driving. The Avalon AWD, weighing 3,705 pounds, felt lively enough, with an eight-speed automatic transmission ensuring quick launches. However, the AWD was limited to XLE and Limited trims, and the Sport mode didn't significantly enhance performance. The Avalon displayed predictable handling and a comfortable ride, with a quiet cabin except for some tire noise.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, on the other hand, boasted a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The TRD model featured a Sport transmission mode, paddle shifters, and a Sport driving mode, enhancing throttle response and steering effort. Despite its sporty nature, the Camry TRD achieved 24.8 mpg in combined driving. The TRD's track-tuned dynamics included increased torsional rigidity, stiffer suspension, and larger brakes, providing a solid and planted feel. While the FWD setup made it easy to break traction, the TRD's performance was impressive for its price, offering a fun driving experience on winding roads.

The 2021 Toyota Avalon, though larger than a Camry, felt similar in size to a Honda Accord. The Avalon Limited featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated cushions, and a heated steering wheel. However, the seats could benefit from improved side bolstering and a power-extending thigh bolster. Rear-seat space was generous, with heated cushions and rear air vents. The Avalon offered ample storage in the center console and a roomy 16.1 cubic-foot trunk, though it lacked a grab handle for the trunk lid.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD's front seats, despite their sporty appearance, lacked additional bolstering but provided a comfortable driving position. The Camry's back seat accommodated two adults comfortably, though the TRD model lacked rear-seat air vents and a folding rear seatback. The trunk offered 15.1 cubic feet of space, smaller than some competitors. However, the Camry compensated with generous in-cabin storage, including a large bin under the center armrest.

The 2021 Toyota Avalon came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Toyota connected services, including WiFi Connect, Safety Connect, Remote Connect, Service Connect, and Destination Assist, were also available. The upgrade infotainment system added dynamic navigation and a 14-speaker JBL premium sound system. The user interface was intuitive, though the JBL system required fine-tuning for optimal sound quality. A 10-inch head-up display was available but faint when wearing polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system included Safety Connect and WiFi Connect subscription services. An optional 9-inch touchscreen display added Remote Connect, Service Connect, and a 9-speaker JBL premium audio system. While the JBL system was bass-heavy, it was decent for the price. The Camry TRD lacked dynamic connected navigation, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided alternative solutions.

The 2021 Toyota Avalon came standard with Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P), offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The optional Advanced Safety Package added a surround-view camera system, parking assist sonar, and rear automatic braking. The Avalon earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and top scores from the IIHS, though it was ineligible for a "Top Safety Pick" award due to poor headlight performance on lower trims.

The 2022 Toyota Camry featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and other driver assist features. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard on the TRD model. The lane-departure warning system occasionally issued false warnings, and the lane-centering assistance could be overly insistent. Safety Connect was standard, offering collision notification, emergency assistance, and roadside assistance. The Camry received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.