2022 BMW 2 Series vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The 2022 BMW 2 Series presented a fresh exterior design that diverged from the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 2 Series Coupe variants, including the RWD 230i and AWD M240i xDrive, were longer, wider, and lower than their predecessors, enhancing their sporty appeal. The signature kidney grille was wider, and the front air curtains had an upright triangular shape, contributing to a leaner, aerodynamic look. The M240i xDrive Coupe featured performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents and the M Shadowline package. Inside, the 2 Series offered a driver-focused interior with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The infotainment system included an 8.8-inch touchscreen, with an upgrade to a 10.25-inch display available. Despite its high-end vibe, some interior elements revealed cost-cutting measures.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly the TRD model, turned heads with its eye-catching Cavalry Blue paint and performance-tuned design. The Camry TRD featured an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, and red accents, giving it a distinct sporty appearance. The interior, while less polarizing, had an unusual dashboard layout and driver-oriented center console. However, the red gauge illumination and other red accents were considered tacky. The Camry TRD's design was bold and attention-grabbing, a departure from the traditionally conservative Camry styling. Despite its dramatic looks, the Camry TRD delivered on performance, offering a well-engineered driving experience.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe packed impressive performance for its size. The 230i Coupe featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved it in just 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of either 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The 2 Series came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, calibrated for smooth shifts and quick responses. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes, providing stability and refined handling. However, the steering feel was criticized for being numb, and the driving experience felt disconnected.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, offered a spirited driving experience. The eight-speed automatic transmission and Sport driving mode enhanced throttle response and steering effort. Despite its performance focus, the Camry TRD achieved an average of 24.8 mpg, close to the EPA rating of 25 mpg. The TRD model featured track-tuned driving dynamics, with increased torsional rigidity, stiffer suspension, and larger brakes. The Camry TRD felt solid and planted, with communicative suspension and excellent brake pedal feel. However, the FWD setup made it easy to break the front wheels loose. Overall, the Camry TRD delivered impressive performance for its price, with a well-engineered driving experience.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, while technically seating four, was compact, with rear seats suitable for children or short trips. The front seats offered relative comfort, but the slanted roofline and design limited rear headroom. The trunk provided 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added flexibility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, despite its sporty design, offered a comfortable driving position with power height adjustment for the front seats. The back seat accommodated two adults comfortably, though it lacked rear-seat air vents. The TRD model had a fixed rear seatback, limiting cargo flexibility, but the trunk offered 15.1 cubic feet of space. The Camry provided generous in-cabin storage, with a large center armrest bin and ample stash space.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, featuring BMW Live Cockpit Plus with over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and real-time traffic updates. Connectivity options included a WiFi hotspot, USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the infotainment to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The 2 Series also offered remote features like the BMW Digital Key and a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon system.

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, with optional upgrades to a 9-inch touchscreen and a JBL premium audio system. The Camry TRD lacked dynamic connected navigation and voice recognition technology, but users could connect via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for voice assistance.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was equipped with Active Driving Assistant, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety features included a rearview camera, park distance control, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included adaptive front LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a 360-degree surround view. The 2 Series had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The Camry's 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 a stolen vehicle locator. The Camry received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from IIHS and five-star ratings from NHTSA.