I recently drove the 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid XSE for a while. The well-liked Camry, which is bigger than the Toyota Corolla and slightly smaller than the Toyota Avalon, is practically the ideal vehicle for both single people and families of all ages.
- Since 1983, the Toyota Camry, a mid-size four-door sedan, has been available for purchase in the US. The five-passenger car comes with a selection of engines and is available with front- or all-wheel drive. For the 2018 model year, the eighth-generation Camry was last totally revamped.
- For 2021, Toyota gave the Camry a mid-cycle redesign that included a new exterior design, an improved version of the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system, and larger infotainment screens. New exterior colors and the Nightshade edition (which has black accents) are features of the 2022 models.
- The Hybrid XSE was a brand-new trim introduced last year that merged the athletic features of the XSE trim with the fuel-efficient Camry Hybrid, giving customers the best of both worlds. The interior has been improved with features including heated and cooled seats, a nine-speaker (800 watt) JBL Audio system, and the new 9.0-inch infotainment display. The exterior has been improved with a more athletic aspect.
- The XSE Hybrid’s engine is a 2.5-liter, normally aspirated inline-4 connected to an electric motor. Total system power is 208 horsepower. The front wheels receive power through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Expect to get an astounding 45 mpg or more in terms of fuel efficiency.
- Although the CVT is a subpar transmission (by design), it performs admirably in the Camry Hybrid XSE. Even with the tremendous total horsepower, acceleration is gradual (0-60 takes about 7.5 seconds). However, in practice, it feels fine and the noteworthy fuel efficiency makes a few seconds lost during a fast sprint worthwhile.
- Thank goodness Toyota decided against giving the Camry TRD models’ enhanced suspension to the XSE instead of the sporty visual upgrades (which give those vehicles an unnecessarily harsh ride). The HSE, in contrast, has a ride that is extremely well regulated. Although the car will never be called a “sport sedan,” the ride is exceptionally smooth without being sloppy.
- My top pick from Toyota’s Camry lineup is the 2022 Camry Hybrid XSE. For roughly $33,000, you can get a big, comfortable family vehicle that most drivers can get up to 50 mpg in, is attractive, and is fun to drive.
In This Article...
Does the Toyota Camry Hybrid merit purchase?
The Toyota Camry Hybrid: Is it a Reliable Car? Yes, the 2022 Camry Hybrid is a superb car that does a great job in most areas. This Toyota accelerates quickly from a stop and has strong passing ability. The majority of customers will also like the smooth trip.
What should I expect to pay for a 2022 Camry?
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the LE trim and front-wheel drive 2022 Camry is $25,395, including a destination fee. An additional $1,400 is charged for all-wheel drive. The XSE V6 model, which costs $35,720, is at the top of the line. The few viable options raise that to slightly over $37.5k.
What is the price of a brand-new Toyota Camry Hybrid?
Pricing for a 2022 Toyota Camry hybrid The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of the 2022 Camry Hybrid in its least expensive LE trim level is $27,380 plus a destination fee. The XSE, which begins at $32,820, is at the top end of the price range.
What drawbacks does the 2022 Toyota Camry have?
One of the most common complaints is about the electrical and engine systems. It was anticipated that the 2022 Toyota Camry would carry on a long tradition of satisfying customers and ranking among the best sedans on the road.
The Camry Hybrid from 2022 is it a plug-in hybrid?
- The Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric car, while the Camry Hybrid is a traditional hybrid.
- The Toyota Prius Prime 2022 costs a little more than the Camry Hybrid.
- Critics give the 2022 Camry Hybrid higher ratings than the 2022 Prius Prime.
- Similar in terms of fuel economy, although the Prius Prime has an EV mode
Both the Toyota Prius Prime and the Toyota Camry Hybrid are renowned for their dependability, sturdiness, fuel economy, and affordability. These are two hybrid choices that frequently compete for buyers’ attention even if they may not play in the same league.
The 2022 Camry Hybrid narrowly defeated the 2022 Prius Hybrid, but can it triumph over the plug-in Prius Prime? Let’s investigate.
What are the Toyota Camry Hybrid’s drawbacks?
Trying to reduce the hassle at the gas station? Then you’ve probably given thought to purchasing a hybrid vehicle. And the 2021 Toyota Camry Hybrid is probably at the top of your list. The new, sport-focused XSE Hybrid is joining the lineup this year, making the Camry Hybrid even hotter than before. The Camry Hybrid is a strong contender for this model year thanks to its outstanding fuel economy, comfortable and spacious interior, and generous load space. You will have to ignore a few drawbacks, such as its tendency to float on the highway and its very grabby brakes, which make coming to a smooth stop a little challenging. What features of the 2021 Toyota Camry Hybrid are appealing? Let’s investigate.
The XSE Hybrid is brand-new for the model year. It is designed to perform athletically. Check out the prices for each trim level as well! They are now more reasonably priced thanks to a base price reduction of slightly over $1,000. The Cold Weather Package is also now available as a stand-alone option rather than being bundled with particular trim levels. Everything else from 2020 is carried over, except for that.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Toyota Camry HybridThe Pros
High Fuel Efficiency
Better fuel efficiency is the main justification for why people spend their hard-earned money on hybrid vehicles. Additionally, consumers won’t be let down by the 2021 Toyota Camry Hybrid. The combined EPA estimated fuel economy for the XLE and SE Hybrid versions is 46 mpg, which is higher than normal for a mid-sized hybrid sedan. Wish there was a better option? 52 mpg combined is impressive for the base LE level. Drivers should be satisfied because real-world tests have shown that these values are generally reliable.
2. Hybrid Vehicle with Quick Acceleration
The Camry Hybrid manages to do something that not all hybrid sedans are known for: accelerate swiftly. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in around 8 seconds flat, which is faster than the majority of its competitors. That is a respectable performance for daily use. Although it might not seem like much in comparison to gas-only models, hybrid powertrains are built for efficiency above speed. More than most, the Camry Hybrid achieves a good balance.
3. Smooth and secure braking
Although the brakes occasionally seem a little grabby (which we shall examine later), they function well most of the time. You can anticipate what these brakes will do and how they will operate in real-world driving situations, such as when you have to stop frequently in congested city traffic. Low-rolling resistance tires, which are frequently seen on hybrid vehicles, don’t always provide secure stops, but they typically feel OK.
4. Reliable Steering and Handling Performance
Contrary to what it might appear on the outside, the Camry Hybrid is sportier. For the unremarkable hybrid sedan sector, which is what it is known for, its driving and handling qualities are respectable. While rounding around turns, there is little discernible body roll, and everything seems well in control. The driver receives adequate feedback from the steering.
5. Reliable climate control and comfortable seating
Toyota has the art of comfort down to a science, and the Camry Hybrid’s interior is no exception. The greatest seat in the house is unquestionably the driver’s seat, which offers lots of lateral and lumbar support while you commute. The back passengers have enough support as well. The climate control system is simple to use, and the vents make sure that even passengers in the back seat receive a fair quantity of air flow. You are in for a big treat if you choose the optional ventilated front seats. The conventional heater is also comfortable.
6. An approachable design
Toyota designed the Camry Hybrid with the user in mind. The driver can easily access and see all of the controls up front. There is no room for speculation as to what each one performs, and they frequently function as anticipated. Their designs appear rational and natural. The Camry Hybrid should make you feel perfectly at home if you’re not particularly tech-savvy. Additionally, if you are tech smart, you will see how rational the design is in its approach.
7. A Vaulted Cabin
Although mid-size sedans aren’t known for having roomy interiors, the 2021 Toyota Camry Hybrid does a great job with its ample fore- and aft space. Since the seat is simple to modify, most drivers should have no trouble finding a comfortable driving position regardless of size. Due to the huge door openings and ample space, even in the back seat, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting bulky rear-facing kid seats in and out.
8. Numerous Common Infotainment Features
Even the basic LE trim level comes with an 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone app integration. Toyota has advanced significantly by making smartphone app connection with both systems standard across all of its models after lacking it in earlier incarnations of those vehicles. You can get a wireless charging pad, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a head-up display that projected driver information onto the windshield in front of you by upgrading to the XLE.
9. An enormous cargo area
The 2021 Toyota Camry Hybrid has a large trunk room for a mid-size hybrid automobile. There is plenty of room for storing all the items you need to transport back there because the battery pack does not obstruct the route. There is no need to give up any of the functionality that you may with other hybrids.
10. A Budget-Friendly Choice
The Camry Hybrid is one of the most affordable hybrid mid-size sedans available because Toyota is lowering the base MSRPs across the board for this model year. This really helps sweeten the bargain and demonstrates that Toyota is trying to keep customers coming back to them for dependable, long-lasting vehicles for the features that you even receive on the lowest trim.
buying advice
Compare prices online before buying a new car to avoid paying too much. Find out the price in advance before entering a dealership. The following free services are suggested by us: Car Clearance Deals, NADAguides, CarsDirect, and Motortrend.
These free sites will provide you the best deals and provide you with numerous price quotations from rival businesses. Before visiting the dealer, you will be aware of the best pricing.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Toyota Camry HybridThe Cons
1. The XLE Can Float Too Much at High Speeds
If you choose the top-of-the-line XLE trim level for the 2021 Toyota Camry Hybrid, be aware that it might become floaty when driven at highway speeds. The other trim levels don’t exhibit this problem as much, and it feels great about town. The absence of emotion might not be apparent immediately away, but it might start to annoy you after a while. However, it is only a minor issue.
2. Sly Driving Aids
The Camry Hybrid has certain driver assistance features that can get a little overly touchy, which is another item on our list of very minor issues. With Toyota’s Safety Sense system, you get a ton of them, but not all of them function as intended. Some of these features cannot be completely disabled, and you could receive a few too many warnings.
3. The Brakes Have a Grip.
The Camry Hybrid’s brakes can occasionally seem a little grabby, hindering a completely smooth stop. Normally, the car stops securely in city traffic just well, but emergency stops might be a little unsettling because the brakes have a tendency to grasp too hard. Again, this is not a common issue, but you can see it on occasion.
4. The Line-topping XLE does not have memory settings.
Customers frequently adore the XLE, but they are perplexed as to why this trim level lacks memory settings for the driver’s seat and side mirrors. The majority of line-topping vehicles in this market do, however Toyota has omitted it from the Camry Hybrid’s list of standard amenities. It would be an excellent addition and increase the already fantastic XLE trim level’s value.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
One of the Camry Hybrid’s main rivals for the model year is the 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid. It offers a roomy interior and lots of cargo capacity with lots of versatility, just like the Camry Hybrid. It almost matches the Camry Hybrid’s fuel economy, but the Camry LE’s remarkable 52 combined mpg gives the Camry Hybrid the advantage. However, because to the low seating position of the Accord Hybrid, getting in and out might be challenging. The brakes also result in unusually large panic braking distances for this market.
The 2021 Ford Fusion Hybrid competes with the Camry Hybrid in a number of areas, including its slick Sync 3 infotainment system and the premium cabin layout that is immediately apparent. Even at highway speeds, this car is well-insulated from noise and is wonderfully quiet. The Fusion Hybrid’s sloping roofline reduces sight and headroom in the back seat, which is a drawback. The fuel economy figures also don’t really compare favorably to the Camry Hybrid or many other rivals.
Overall, the Toyota Camry Hybrid for 2021 is a practical solution to the growing need for fuel-efficient hybrid technology in modern cars. Toyota appears to be making every effort to make the Camry Hybrid affordable for more purchasers despite the fact that 2020 has been a challenging year for many. This mid-size hybrid sedan has a lot of power under the hood and is one of the better alternatives in its category. While the brakes may use some work, overall driving performance is good, and the fuel economy is more than adequate.