Toyota Camry vs Volkswagen Passat: How the German sedan stand against the Japanese rival?

While the popularity of hatchbacks, SUVs, and MPVs has grown over time, the midsize sedan is still the first choice for many. And if you are among those who are hunting for a stylish, fun-to-drive, and upmarket midsize sedan that won't decimate your bank account, then you have come at the right place. 

In this article, we will pit two popular models - the Toyota Camry and Volkswagen Passat. The two sedans are known for providing countless features and technology, plenty of power under the bonnet, and top-notch fuel consumption ratings. 

By giving up the tag of uncle's car, the revamped Toyota Camry landed on the Malaysian shores in 2018. The new Camry is based on Toyota New Global Architecture platform that's said to enhance stability, agility, and safety all at once. Being a CBU model, the Toyota Camry price for the single 2.5V trim stands at RM 188,763.

Volkswagen launched the all-new Passat for 2020 with designing tweaks and slight modifications at heart, The Volkswagen Passat price tag reads RM182,878, and the single trim goes by the name 2.0 TSI Elegance. 

See how these two models stack up in our Toyota Camry vs Volkswagen Passat spec to spec comparison.

Toyota Camry vs Volkswagen Passat: Dimensions

While the two sedans almost have the same width and height, the Toyota Camry undoubtedly takes up a large space in your garage as it is longer. The Japanese car also has a longer wheelbase, which means more cabin space at the rear. But when it comes to trunk capacity, Passat outshines with a large difference, favorable for traveling with big suitcases.

Toyota Camry vs Volkswagen Passat: Exterior

Dubbed as "Beautiful Monster," the current-generation Camry is probably the most striking and dynamic looking ever. With a flowing design theme, the sedan flaunts a stylish exterior propped with a huge blacked-out grille. It rides on 18-inch rims, gets automatic bi-LED projector headlights with LED turn signals, LED DRLs as well as LED fog lamps, and rear lights. Other niceties include hydrophilic auto-retractable wing mirrors, auto wipers, and dual exhaust tips.

On the other side, the new Volkswagen Passat features a restyled twin-slat grille flanked by an IQ Light Matrix LED headlights system containing LED daytime running lights, dynamic cornering light, and dynamic range control. The side and rear facets changes include 18-inch' Liverpool' alloy wheels and new tail-lamps, respectively, among other subtle revisions.

Toyota Camry vs Volkswagen Passat: Interior

Toyota Camry's cabin features a sophisticated design for providing convenience at the fingertips. The dash design is quite something and boasts some real flair along with Toyota's impressive build quality, excellent material, and smooth leather seats.

On the other side, the new Passat brims with comfort, connectivity, and elegance inside the cabin, in a real German class. The finishing and material quality are top-notch, while the use of trims and premium leather upholstery further enhances the overall styling. 

The list of technical tidbits of both sedans is comprehensive, which promises an uncompromised comfort to the occupants. However, a closer analysis reveals that Passat has the upper hand.

Toyota Camry vs Volkswagen Passat: Engine and performance

The Japanese sedan lies below the German one in terms of oily bits despite carrying a larger engine. However, its newer Dynamic Force engine does not feel lacking in any particular area in real-world driving conditions. The Camry is agile, with fluid motions that make the driving feel like controlling an extension of your hands and feet. 

With a segment-leading torque of 320 Nm, Volkswagen Passat surges towards the horizon with ease. It is refined and comfortable on harsh roads. It is not the last word in dynamic driving, but it can't be faulted either.

Toyota Camry vs Volkswagen Passat: Safety

There is no question regarding the safety concern for both sedans. Toyota Camry is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense along with the other standard features. In contrast, the Volkswagen Passat specs sheet comprises a lot of high-end safety and driver-assistance appointments.

Also read: 2020 VW Passat - Safety explained

Verdict

With legendary Toyota service and reliability, Camry has larger dimensions, several techs, and safety appointments, dependable driving dynamics, and a higher price tag. While Volkswagen Passat stands confidently against it in all the spectrums. So, ultimately it comes down to the customers' requirements and preferences. Either option won't disappoint you, but make sure you purchase the one that fits your style.

Also read: Volkswagen Passat: Old vs new