Toyota Camry vs Toyota GR86

Available in five trim levels, each equipped with a standard hybrid powertrain, the Camry is one of the few remaining midsize sedans for sale in the United States. Toyota stopped just short of a complete redesign for the 2025 model year, and the 2026 Camry lineup continues mostly unchanged, adding a sporty new Nightshade Edition trim level and a paint color called Dark Cosmos.

Verdict: The Toyota Camry is cheap to own, safe, and known for its dependability. Is that exciting? No. But fortunately, a 2026 Camry is also comfortable and good to drive.

The GR86 puts driver engagement first and practicality last. It offers fantastic handling, especially at the limit, and while power is modest, it’s delivered to maximize the fun. Buyers can choose all-season tires for tail-out fun or summer-performance tires for quicker track times. While the GR86 has four seats, it realistically seats two, but that’s OK because the GR86 is all about pleasing the driver.

Verdict: If driver engagement is at the top of the shopping list, the Toyota GR86 is one of the best choices on the market. It lacks practicality and its ride can be overly firm, but the GR86 delivers driving fun without big power.