2023 Hyundai Elantra vs 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid continued Toyota’s longstanding tradition of reliability and practicality. With a history dating back to its U.S. debut in 1983, the Camry Hybrid emphasized a modern and sleek design in its 2022 model. It was mostly a carryover from the previous year but featured a futuristic and expressive front end. The grille presented a sneering, almost aggressive aesthetic, coupled with muscular features that offered a bold look. Wheel options varied from 16-inch steel wheels on the base model to 17-inch, 18-inch, and even 19-inch alloy wheels for higher trims.

The interior of the Camry Hybrid mirrored its exterior’s futuristic vibe, with a dashboard designed with sweeping curves running from the driver's side to the center stack. A large infotainment touchscreen dominated the center console, flanked by well-thought-out placement of the gear selector and dual cupholders. The rear seats were equally impressive, providing roomy, comfortable accommodations even for the middle seat, which was often neglected in other vehicles. Toyota’s remarkable fit and finish were evident throughout the car, with even gaps and high-quality materials enhancing the perceived value of the vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra flaunted a controversial yet modern exterior styling that sparked polarized opinions. While some people admired its bold design, others found it too radical. This difference of opinions became a hallmark of Hyundai’s approach to styling. Despite this, the Elantra’s interior saw more unanimous praise. The Elantra Limited, especially with its Melange with Gray leather seats and trim, presented an upscale cabin feel. Quality daytime and ambient lighting further boosted its luxurious appeal. However, the presence of hard plastic on the upper door panels was a minor letdown in an otherwise well-crafted interior.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid boasted exceptional fuel efficiency, rewarding eco-conscious drivers with impressive numbers. Entry-level LE models achieved an EPA rating of 51 mpg city, 53 mpg highway, and 52 mpg combined. Other trims like SE and XSE were slightly less efficient but still commendable at 44 mpg city, 47 mpg highway, and 46 mpg combined. The hybrid system paired a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 208 horsepower. The Camry Hybrid’s electronically controlled CVT handled the power delivery to the front wheels smoothly, and paddle shifters in SE and XSE models simulated a six-speed transmission for a more engaging driving experience.

Despite its focus on fuel economy, the Camry Hybrid didn’t sacrifice handling and ride quality. The placement of the battery pack low in the floor gave it a lower center of gravity, enhancing its handling dynamics. While it wasn’t a track car, it felt agile, especially compared to SUV counterparts. Some picky complaints included the challenge of maintaining the EV-only mode and occasional droning from the drivetrain.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra, particularly in its Limited trim, wasn’t about raw power but balanced performance. Equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, it delivered peppy, reliable performance. Hyundai’s CVT, branded as Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), was highly regarded in its class, offering smooth and efficient operation. Although the Elantra Limited was not a speed demon, its fuel economy was commendable, averaging 33 mpg during testing, close to the EPA rating of 34 mpg.

In diverse driving conditions, from city streets to mountain roads, the Elantra Limited displayed commendable handling and ride comfort. The standard torsion-beam rear axle, while not as sophisticated as an independent multi-link setup, didn’t noticeably compromise the ride quality. The responsiveness of the brakes, stability on highways, and composed handling were noteworthy, despite the Elantra’s modest power figures.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid excelled in providing a comfortable and practical driving experience. Its reasonable ride height and seating position ensured that most drivers could find a comfortable setting. The spacious interior featured plentiful storage options, including a roomy glove compartment and various nooks and crannies throughout the dashboard.

The second row of the Camry Hybrid was easily accessible and spacious, providing comfort for passengers. The 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space was generous, with a low-mounted battery pack that didn’t intrude on cargo room. A passthrough allowed for transporting longer items, and the option to fold down the second row expanded its cargo-carrying capabilities.

Similarly, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a blend of style and practicality. Keyless entry, a comfortable six-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats highlighted the thoughtful interior design. However, the rear seat was not as accommodating, with a slouched seating position and hard plastic panels detracting from rear passenger comfort. The Elantra's trunk boasted 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, slightly less than the Camry Hybrid but still ample for most needs. The 60/40-split folding rear seats added versatility for cargo management.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid integrated advanced technology smoothly into its design. Premium audio from JBL, embedded navigation options, and standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility provided high-level connectivity and entertainment. The standard infotainment screen varied by model, with higher trims featuring a larger 9-inch touchscreen. Dual-zone climate control, automatic LED headlights, and a WiFi hotspot were standard across all trims. The XSE model offered luxury-level tech features like a 10-inch head-up display, bird’s-eye view camera, and intelligent clearance sonar with rear cross-traffic braking.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra also showcased significant technological advancements. SEL models and above featured 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment screens, bringing a premium feel to the compact sedan segment. However, a wired connection was required for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard infotainment features included satellite radio, connected services, navigation, and wireless smartphone charging. The Bose premium audio system, Digital Key technology, and leading vehicle departure alert further enhanced the Elantra’s tech credentials, though the Bose system's sound quality was underwhelming compared to competitors.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), offering an array of safety features such as a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert with steering assist, Lane Tracing Assist, automatic high beams, and traffic-sign recognition. The Star Safety System included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. The Camry Hybrid featured 10 airbags, three-point seat belts, LATCH anchors for child seats, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on some trims. The Camry Hybrid was expected to maintain the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra also prioritized safety with a comprehensive suite of standard features, including automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and a safe exit warning system. Blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, and Highway Driving Assist were standard on the Limited model. The Elantra’s Highway Driving Assist system provided smooth and confident assistance during highway driving. The 2022 Elantra received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and the 2023 model earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, reaffirming its commitment to safety.