Are high fuel prices getting you down? We absolutely understand this, because as of this writing gas prices are well over $4 per gallon. We are in the record-setting territory and, sadly, there is no relief in sight. We realize not everyone can afford a new vehicle, but for those who are shopping a hybrid may do. One model that we like is the Toyota Camry Hybrid, a midsize sedan that delivers outstanding fuel efficiency.
Toyota Camry Hybrid Overview
Toyota has been building hybrid electric vehicles since the 1990s when the Toyota Prius rolled out. Since then, the automaker has brought its efficient powertrain to many of its standard models. In 2007, the Camry received the hybrid treatment, a model that continues to this day. The Camry Hybrid parallels the standard Camry, therefore the current-generation model was rolled out in 2018. Among the changes since is the inclusion of smartphone compatibility, a new XSE trim, and an SE Nightshade edition.
Four Hybrid Models for the Choosing
Every 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor combining for 208 horsepower. Power routes to the front wheels by means of a continuously variable automatic transmission. This model earns an outstanding 51 mpg in the city, 53 mpg on the highway for a combined 52 mpg (46 mpg on other trims). That is 20 (or 14) mpg better than the most efficient gas version.
Also, the Camry Hybrid comes with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of driver safety equipment. This package includes a pre-collision system with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. It also features lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist.
The following is our breakdown of the four trims. Prices range from $27,980 to $33,420, plus a $1,010 destination charge.
Toyota Camry LE Hybrid ($27,980)
For a standard model, the LE Hybrid comes well equipped. Among the more noteworthy exterior features are LED combination headlights with automatic on/off. LED combination taillights with black trim, a dark gray front grille, and 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers are included.
Inside, the Camry Hybrid comes with full power accessories, dual-zone automatic climate control, and fabric-trimmed seats. An 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat are included. This model comes with keyless entry and push-button start as well as three USB ports.
The audio system includes a 7-inch touchscreen display with six speakers. The system is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible; it also comes with a satellite radio trial subscription. A host of safety features are offered under the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ umbrella. Also, this model comes with full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control.
SE Hybrid ($29,515/$30,215 Nightshade)
This is the sporty version of the hybrid model and comes with a sport-tuned suspension. The fuel economy with this and the following two trims is 46 mpg. This model comes with black-out touches, a color-keyed rear spoiler and heated power outside mirrors caps, and a single exhaust with dual chrome tips.
Inside, the seats are covered in imitation leather and the tilt-and-telescopic steering column includes paddle shifters. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather. Additional decorative touches are available with the Nightshade edition, a $700 upgrade.
XLE Hybrid ($32,870)
Move up to the XLE trim and this one comes with LED headlights and LED daytime running lights with an automatic on/off feature. LED taillights wrapped in black trim, a dark grey front grille with chrome accents, and 18-inch dark gray machine finish alloy wheels round out the exterior highlights.
Inside, this trim comes with leather trim seats, heated front seats, wood inlay trim, and ambient lighting. A wireless charging pad is included. With this trim, Toyota offers a 9-inch touch screen display, along with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
XSE Hybrid ($33,420)
Moving up to the top trim this one includes blacked-out touches like the SE trim. All the other features of the XLE come in here. Also, a set of 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels is standard.
Toyota Camry Hybrid Considerations
The standard LE trim comes with many of the features customers want in a new car. It is also 6 miles per gallon more efficient than the other three trims. Upgrading to other trims exchanges a measure of efficiency for better equipment. Otherwise, we think all four trims have merit.
See Also — All-Wheel Drive Comes to the Toyota Camry
