by Gerhard Horn
While most people like to believe the sedan is dead, there are a few iconic midsize models in the USA that refuse to throw in the towel. Also available as a hybrid, the Toyota Camry is one such holdout. You know exactly what you're getting when you buy a Camry: handsome styling, a large interior, decent ride and handling, and, in the case of the hybrid, exceptional fuel economy. The 2022 Camry Hybrid LE has EPA-estimated consumption figures of 51/53/52 mpg city/highway/combined, which isn't far off the best that the Toyota Prius can manage. That means you can have more space and luxury without sacrificing too much in terms of fuel consumption. Toyota's sedan doesn't have this segment all to itself, however. The Honda Accord Hybrid also makes a compelling case for itself, but the Camry hits back with inherent reliability and a 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain developing a total of 208 horsepower.
The 2021 Camry received a refresh that saw the front end restyled, the Safety Sense 2.5+ system fitted as standard, and the XSE added as the new flagship trim, among other changes. For the 2022 model there is a new trim - the SE Hybrid Nightshade Edition - that mirrors the similar model in the normal Camry lineup with its blacked-out interior and exterior treatment. Galactic Aqua Mica disappears from the exterior color palette for the 2022 model year. Prices have increased slightly across the board too.
See trim levels and configurations:
Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (MSRP) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hybrid LE |
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid
|
Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT)
|
Front-Wheel Drive
|
$27,980 |
Hybrid SE |
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid
|
Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT)
|
Front-Wheel Drive
|
$29,515 |
Hybrid Nightshade |
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid
|
Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT)
|
Front-Wheel Drive
|
$30,215 |
Hybrid XLE |
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid
|
Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT)
|
Front-Wheel Drive
|
$32,870 |
Hybrid XSE |
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid
|
Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT)
|
Front-Wheel Drive
|
$33,420 |
The Camry has never been as good as it is right now, especially in hybrid guise. It gets so close to the Prius's figures that you can't help but question the continued existence of the latter. Still, as mentioned earlier, the Camry doesn't compete in a segment of one. It may have a more efficient hybrid engine, but the Accord hits back in the ride and handling department. However, since this segment is mostly about low fuel consumption, the Camry may be the better vehicle.
To be frank, the differences between these two cars are so minor that it doesn't really matter. Both are great, which brings us back to the original question. Even a cursory review of the Camry Hybrid proves that it is a good car and well worth your attention if you're looking for a value hybrid sedan.
The LE Hybrid is the most affordable and most frugal model available, and it comes with an MSRP of $27,380. The SE trim will cost you $28,915, while the new SE Nightshade Edition retails for $29,615. The XLE starts at $32,270 and the top-spec XSE starts at $32,820. The price of the Toyota Camry Hybrid does not include tax, registration, or the $1,025 destination fee. However, hybrids are often offered with incentives in the US.
The most popular competitors of 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid: