2022 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in its TRD variant, made a surprising impression with its striking Cavalry Blue paint, a new addition for the year. This bold color, exclusive to the performance-tuned TRD model, caught the attention of onlookers, a rare occurrence for a Camry. The 2022 updates also included standard heated side mirrors and dual-zone automatic climate control for most trims, along with a new Ice Edge paint option. The SE Hybrid trim introduced a Nightshade Edition package, adding a sleek, blacked-out aesthetic. With 13 versions available, the Camry offered a range of choices, from the base LE to the sporty XSE, with prices starting just over $26,000. The TRD model, equipped with a V6 engine and performance enhancements, stood out with its aggressive styling, including an aerodynamic body kit and matte-black wheels. While the design was polarizing, it marked a departure from the Camry's traditionally conservative image.

In contrast, the 2022 Dodge Charger maintained its imposing presence, built on a platform dating back to 2005. Despite its age, the Charger received significant updates over the years, with a major facelift in 2015 that gave it a modern and menacing look. The interior, however, felt dated compared to contemporary standards, with thick bezels and chunky controls. The Charger offered a range of trims, from the V6-powered SXT and GT to the high-performance Hellcat and Jailbreak models. The Hellcat Widebody, with its supercharged V8 engine, delivered exhilarating performance, making it a standout in the lineup. While the Charger wasn't the most technologically advanced, its user-friendly Uconnect infotainment system and optional safety features provided a satisfactory experience. The Charger's blend of muscle-car performance and practicality made it a versatile choice for those seeking power and space.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD was equipped with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, the Camry TRD offered a spirited driving experience. It featured a Sport transmission mode and paddle shifters, enhancing its performance credentials. Despite its sporty nature, the Camry TRD achieved an impressive 25 mpg in combined driving, according to EPA ratings. The car's track-tuned dynamics were supported by increased torsional rigidity, stiffer suspension components, and larger brakes. The TRD's performance was further enhanced by its sport dual exhaust system and 19-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires. While the front-wheel-drive setup occasionally led to tire squeal, the Camry TRD's solid and planted feel, along with its communicative suspension, made it enjoyable to drive on winding roads.

The 2022 Dodge Charger offered a range of powerful engine options, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 in the SXT and GT models, producing up to 300 horsepower. The R/T trim introduced a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 370 horsepower, while the R/T Scat Pack boasted a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 485 horsepower. The Charger SRT Hellcat took performance to another level with a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8, delivering 717 horsepower. The Hellcat Redeye and Jailbreak models pushed the limits further, with outputs of 797 and 807 horsepower, respectively. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on V6 models. The Hellcat's acceleration was breathtaking, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph. The Widebody setup, with its wider tires and track, improved handling and allowed the Charger to harness its immense power effectively.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured a sporty interior with red accents and TRD logos, though the front seats lacked additional bolstering. Despite this, the low-slung driving position and supportive fabric seat inserts provided comfort and stability during spirited driving. The Camry's back seat accommodated two adults comfortably, but the TRD model sacrificed rear-seat air vents and a folding rear seatback for improved structural rigidity. The trunk offered 15.1 cubic feet of space, smaller than some competitors, but the Camry compensated with generous in-cabin storage, including a large center console bin.

The 2022 Dodge Charger, a large sedan, offered ample legroom in both rows, though headroom was limited, especially in the rear. The high center console and performance bucket seats created an intimate front-seat experience. The Charger's trunk provided 16.5 cubic feet of space, but its small lid and high bumper made loading large items challenging. Despite these limitations, the Charger's combination of sports-car performance and practicality made it a versatile choice for those needing space and speed.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system included physical knobs and buttons for easy operation. An optional 9-inch touchscreen upgrade added Remote Connect and Service Connect subscription plans, along with a JBL premium audio system. While the Camry TRD lacked dynamic navigation and voice recognition, it offered connectivity through smartphone integration.

The 2022 Dodge Charger featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface. An 8.4-inch version was available on higher trims, offering larger icons and easier navigation. Both screens included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While not the most advanced, the Charger's infotainment system provided a balanced blend of technology and conventional controls, enhancing the user experience.

The 2022 Toyota Camry was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard on the TRD trim. The Camry received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, ensuring high levels of safety for occupants.

The 2022 Dodge Charger showed its age in terms of safety features, offering only a backup camera and rear parking sensors as standard. Optional safety features included forward-collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. While the Charger lacked the comprehensive safety suite of its competitors, these optional features provided some modern safety enhancements.