In some cases, the choice between a midsize and a compact sedan can be quite difficult. Although the difference in size and price structure is tangible, at certain points the interests of buyers may coincide. What to do then, and why does this happen? And how do you know which one is right for you? Let's run through the main characteristics by the example of two sedans from a well-known Japanese manufacturer.
Let's try to explain the main differences between the two relatively popular sedans you may encounter on the market: the mid-size Toyota Camry and the compact Toyota Corolla.
Modern cars from related classes do have a lot of overlapping features. The manufacturer intentionally makes almost identical appearance or at least very similar. Such orientation can be seen in the last few years especially clearly and in absolutely different car companies, previously not noticed in such "cheating". The most striking example can be the two latest Toyota models:
As you can see, Toyota has finally unified the exterior of its most popular sedans. And what about prices? Is there a difference in price, and how significant is it? After all, it would seem that the Camry is the business class, the Corolla is the budget model in the lineup. How can they compete on price? In fact, there may be an internal overlap when choosing certain configurations.
Let's add one more point to this rebus - technical characteristics, which will be similar for the most part (acceleration dynamics, top speed, partly capacity (don't think that a compact car necessarily must be very cramped) and so on and so forth), and we get a problem for the unsophisticated buyer.
Yes, from this point the real agony of choice can begin. With similar looks, similar price tags and features, many potential Toyota buyers may wonder: which of these two cars is better suited to their needs?
To answer the question, let's walk through the Camry and Corolla body types, their powertrains, size, features and many other nuances. Hopefully, you'll be armed with knowledge before you head to the dealership to buy a new car.
Body style/Design
Camry: the new Camry sedan has a sporty, aggressive front end with a large grille. From the side, the sedan's profile flows smoothly into the classic "business class" outline - calm and, in a sense, "majestic" in shape. The rear is also not devoid of modern contours, mainly due to the narrow rear brake lights with integrated in the trunk lid spoiler.
Some Camry trims got an even sportier look by adding extra air vents and diffusers to the exterior, as well as the presence of four-end exhaust pipes. Toyota really tried to look sportier with the new Camry.
Corolla: The Corolla, unlike the Camry, is offered in two bodies: a sedan and a hatchback. Both the sedan and hatchback follow a similar design to the Camry, with large front intake diffuser grilles and tapered headlights. The Corolla hatchback has its own sporty features, such as large alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. The Corolla is also available as a hybrid (the hybrid novelty is unlikely to be available in the Russian market once sales begin), which completes the front end with its own unique touches.
Bottom line: both models, Camry and Corolla, have a similar design, an aggressive front end with large radiator grilles and unusual, expressive headlights. If you're looking for a hatchback, the Corolla is worth a closer look. If you prefer a sedan, the larger Camry will suit you better, though the Corolla sedan is also a great choice for a small family.
A plus of the Camry is its design. Especially when compared to sedans, it stands out particularly favorably, giving the buyer a modern and stylish appearance.
Space/Practicality
Camry: The Camry is the larger of the two cars in question. It has comfortable seating for five adult passengers and a maximum total load capacity of 493 liters in the trunk. You can also fold down the rear seats in a 60/40 ratio to make room for long items in the trunk.
Corolla: The Corolla hatchback also accommodates five passengers, but there is considerably less space for both front and rear passengers. The hatchback is quite practical, it even has a bigger trunk - about 520 liters. The XI-generation Corolla sedan has a trunk volume of 452 liters.
Consequently, depending on the body type, the Corolla may be more practical in terms of carrying luggage than the Camry, but the passenger comfort of the former is somewhat less.
Bottom line: if you're looking for more space and regularly carry passengers in the back seats, or you have a large family of four to five people, the Camry is the way to go because it will be more comfortable. If you don't need too much space in the backseat, but instead value cargo capacity (snowboards, bicycles, sports and more), the Corolla hatchback is a good choice that's practical with easy trunk access due to its massive tailgate and plenty of usable space.
Transmissions/Fuel Economy
Camry: the engine that most Camry buyers will drive is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This powertrain produces 150 hp at 6,500 rpm and 192 Nm of torque at 4,700 rpm. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only transmission option available, sending power to the front wheels. Official fuel consumption:
Mixed cycle: 7.1 liters/100 km
On the highway: 5.5 liters/100 km
In the city: 9.7 litres/100 km
In reality, Toyota has never been known for approximate fuel consumption, the consumption in life will hit the wallet.
The other two gasoline engines correspond to 2.5 and 3.5 liters. Their power is higher, as is the sedan's dynamics. The maximum acceleration corresponds to 7.7 seconds.
Corolla: The Corolla sedan on the market looks rather pale in comparison with the Camry. Motors are 1.33, 1.6 and 1.8 liters. The last two are available on "manual", and on a variator. Dynamics in any case will not reach up to indicators of a business sedan.
However, here we should consider that compared models' generations are different, so after the new Corolla arrives to Russia, the situation will be smoothed by dynamics. The main advantage of Corolla is economy. Even the 1.8-liter engine spends 6.4, 5.3 and 8.3 liters in a mixed cycle on a freeway and in a city.
Bottom line: these cars have good fuel economy for their respective segments. If you want power and torque, choose the Camry. The bigger the engine displacement, the faster the car will be. If you prefer to save money, the Corolla is the obvious choice.
Dynamics and driving
Camry: the slowest model with a 2.0-liter engine on the market reaches 100 km/h in 11 seconds. The average figure is 9.9 seconds, the maximum, with the most powerful 3.5-liter engine corresponds to 7.7 seconds. The last two variants also have price tags that significantly exceed the cost of the younger brother, even in its maximum configuration.
Corolla: if you compare a comparably priced Corolla, you'll find that its 140 horsepower engine is enough for more dynamic acceleration, compared to the Camry's 2.0-liter powertrain, with an advantage of almost a second. Gasoline consumption will be lower, too.
Waiting for an update, the novelty should bring the acceleration results closer together.
Bottom line: the Camry doesn't save money, but it drives. The Corolla is much slower, but it is more economical. What suits you better is up to you.
Verdict: Toyota Camry vs Corolla
It is not for nothing that the Camry is the best-selling sedan in the world. It is reliable, spacious, comfortable, quiet and affordable for most middle class car owners.
Meanwhile Corolla is a bit more efficient and "fun" in driving, if we consider the variant with the maximum power engine. There is a disadvantage - the car is smaller and less roomy.
However, the considered American version of a hatchback has one more indisputable plus - its magnificent appearance. Agree, it's more modern than the full-size sedan, and we think it's a great addition to the lineup.
Our advice to buyers is this: if you need more room in the back row, a big trunk, and you still prefer a three-volume sedan, your way is to the Camry, rounding out the Corolla.
If you appreciate a slightly more fuel-efficient ride in city crowds, head to an authorized dealer for the Corolla. Except for the size, it is the same reliable, comfortable and technological Camry. But it will be better to do it after Toyota brings its updated model to us.
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