2021 BMW 5 Series vs 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2021 BMW 5 Series presented a restrained design, distinguishing itself from other BMW sedans with its understated elegance. It underwent a minor styling refresh, resulting in a sleeker appearance. The standard LED headlights were more streamlined, and the signature twin-kidney grille was enlarged, though not excessively so. Additional updates included trapezoidal tailpipes, L-shaped taillights, and new bumpers for the M Sport Package. The interior maintained the classic BMW layout, with familiar elements like the touchscreen positioning and unique shifter design. While the lower trims featured SensaTec upholstery, higher trims offered luxurious options like Dakota and Nappa leather. The aluminum trim added a high-end feel, though the sport steering wheel seemed out of place in the otherwise refined interior.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid, despite being a carryover model, surprised with its futuristic and expressive design. The front end featured a bold, sneering face with muscular features, complemented by various wheel options across trim levels. Inside, the Camry Hybrid boasted a wild dashboard design with a sweeping curve and a prominent infotainment touchscreen. The second row offered ample space and comfort, even for the middle seat. Toyota's attention to fit and finish was evident, with high-quality materials and precise construction. The Camry Hybrid's interior was both functional and stylish, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a modern family sedan.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the 530i's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on the tires. The 540i featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 335 hp and 362 lb-ft of torque. It achieved zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with rear-wheel drive and 4.6 seconds with xDrive all-wheel drive. The M550i xDrive and M5 offered even more power, with the latter reaching 617 hp and a zero to 60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds. The 530e plug-in hybrid combined a 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor, producing 288 hp and capable of driving solely on electric power for significant distances.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid focused on fuel efficiency, with the entry-level LE model achieving an impressive 51 mpg city/53 mpg highway/52 mpg combined. Other trims offered 44 mpg city/47 mpg highway/46 mpg combined. The hybrid system combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a total of 208 horsepower. Power was sent to the front wheels via an electronically controlled CVT, with paddle shifters available on SE and XSE models. The Camry Hybrid's handling was commendable, thanks to a lower center of gravity from the lithium-ion battery pack. However, maintaining EV mode was challenging, and some drivetrain noise was noted.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available as a four-door, five-seat sedan, offered spaciousness in line with its exterior dimensions. The front seats were competitive in space, while the rear seats provided ample room despite appearing less roomy on paper. The 540i boasted 14.0 cubic feet of trunk space, surpassing rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The rear bench featured a 40/20/20 split fold for accommodating longer items. The test car's 16-way power front seats provided support and comfort, though forward visibility was hindered by the long hood.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid excelled in ride height, seating position, and ease of use. The driving position was comfortable, with ample headroom allowing for various seating adjustments. Storage options were plentiful, with a spacious glove compartment and numerous nooks throughout the dash. The second row was easy to access and offered generous space, with bottle holders and map pockets adding convenience. The Camry Hybrid's trunk matched the standard Camry's 15.1 cubic feet, thanks to the low-mounted battery pack. A passthrough and foldable second row enhanced cargo versatility. Toyota's warranty coverage was comprehensive, with specific hybrid components covered for up to 10 years/100,000 miles.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series featured a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with the latest iDrive 7 system and a 12.3-inch Live Cockpit Professional digital instrument cluster. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a WiFi hotspot were standard. The infotainment screen's location atop the dashboard made it easy to read, though the instrument cluster layout could be improved. A rotary knob controlled infotainment functions, offering tactile feedback, while voice control and gesture controls were available.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid came equipped with advanced technology features, including a premium audio system tuned by JBL. The system, available on XLE and XSE models, featured nine speakers and sophisticated algorithms for enhanced audio quality. Embedded navigation was optional, while Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard. The LE, SE, and SE Nightshade had a 7-inch touchscreen, while XLE and XSE models boasted a 9-inch screen. All trims included Toyota's smart key system, push-button start, and a projected-path rearview camera. A 10-inch head-up display and other luxury features were available on XSE models.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, while not crash-tested by the IIHS for 2021, received a "Top Safety Pick+" award for the 2020 model. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, lane-keep assist, and emergency stop assist. BMW's driver-assist tech was noted for its sophistication and smooth operation.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ as standard, including a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. The Camry Hybrid also included Toyota's Star safety system, with features like stability control and anti-lock brakes. It came with 10 airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. A blind-spot monitor was available on lower trims and standard on higher ones. The 2021 model received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model was expected to maintain this rating. The NHTSA awarded the 2022 Camry Hybrid a five-star overall safety rating.