The 2026 Camry is offered exclusively as a hybrid, with six trims available with the starting price for a SE with front-wheel drive is $34,575. Our tester was a mid-range XLE all-wheel drive model, which has an as-tested price of $47,580.58.
It comes jam packed with features such leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, head-up display, panoramic sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, and more.
One new trim for 2026 is the Nightshade edition available on SE models, which adds black accent pieces throughout the vehicle design.
Powertrain: The Camry has a single powertrain setup, but with different outputs if you opt for front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
It features Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system – widely regarded as one of the best in the business – which includes a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with high-torque electric motors and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.
In the all-wheel drive versions, an electric motor is added to the rear axle for on-demand power distribution when conditions call for it.
Exterior: As part of a redesign in 2025, Toyota introduced what they call a “hammerhead” design of the front fascia, which is also now seen on other models in the lineup.
It gives the Camry a wider and more planted appearance, flanked by LED headlights and daytime running lights.
The silhouette of the Camry features some sharper creases than in the past, and a nice set of 18-inch alloy wheels on the XLE model elevate the design.
The rear design is also elegant, with tapered taillights and a very subtle spoiler.
Our tester was painted Cosmos Blue, which is a $350 extra but a color I found worked well to elevate the design of the Camry.
Interior: While I really like the cabin of the Camry overall, I am still not sold on the fabric-covered extension of the dash that runs the length of the passenger seat before bending down near the centre console.
That aside, the cabin is comfortable, well thought out and it has a premium feel – especially with the grey interior on our tester, another $350 well spent.
The tester features supportive front seats, which are heated and cooled front seats, and there’s also a heated steering wheel.
The materials used in the Camry are higher quality, and the fit and finish inside the cabin is well executed. The panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with cabin with natural light, giving it a sense of airiness.
The layout of all the controls is neatly organized, although the row of toggle switches right before push buttons did lead to some confusion over which feature I was controlling. Something any owner would master with time, of course.
Infotainment: The heart of the infotainment system on the Camry is a 12.3-inch screen, which is paired to a nine-speaker JBL audio system. It comes with satellite radio compatibility, and also offers wireless device charging as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
It’s a modern system that works well overall with little fuss and overcomplicated menus, although I did spend most of the time in the CarPlay features.
Drive: The Camry XLE hybrid is a really enjoyable drive. Smooth acceleration, a good AWD setup and a specially tuned suspension help deliver a sedan that is as good on the twisties as it is on a straight line. Steering was responsive and well balanced that is conducive to comfortable daily driving.
The transitions between the gas engine and EV setup of the hybrid powertrain is as seamless as they come. You don’t notice the switch, unless you are really paying attention.
Conclusion: The new looks, all-hybrid lineup and AWD setup make the 2026 Camry XLE a winner in my books. I really enjoyed my time with the sedan and would recommend it for anyone who is looking for something in this market.
2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE AWD
Price as tested: $47,580.58
Freight: $1,860
Configuration: Front engine/All-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder/ CVT
Power/torque: 232 horsepower/ 163 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Regular (49 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 4.9 L/100 km
Warranties: 3-years/60,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5
Website: Toyota Canada
THE VICARIOUS TOUCH™
30-Second Verdict
The 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid refines an already proven formula by delivering excellent fuel efficiency, smooth performance and everyday comfort in a midsize sedan that remains easy to live with. Toyota’s latest hybrid system provides strong acceleration and impressive efficiency, while the redesigned cabin and updated tech give the Camry a more premium feel. It may not be the most exciting sedan in the segment, but its balance of reliability, efficiency and value continues to make it one of the smartest choices for Canadian commuters.
Pros
- Excellent hybrid fuel economy
- Smooth and refined driving experience
- Comfortable cabin with quality materials
Cons
- Interior design feels conservative compared with rivals
- Some dashboard controls can be confusing at first
- Driving dynamics less engaging than sportier competitors
Performance Meter
Performance
■■■■■■■□□□
Efficiency
■■■■■■■■■□
Comfort
■■■■■■■■□□
Technology
■■■■■■■■□□
Value
■■■■■■■■■□
(Relative to vehicles in the midsize sedan segment.)
Segment Snapshot
Most Powerful Hybrid: Honda Accord Hybrid — 204 horsepower
Best Fuel Economy: Toyota Camry Hybrid — ~4.9 L/100 km
Most Driver-Focused: Honda Accord
Best Design & Tech: Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Value Pick: Kia K5 (gasoline)
Segment Leader
Hybrid Efficiency Benchmark
With official ratings around 4.9 L/100 km combined, the Camry Hybrid remains one of the most efficient midsize sedans available in Canada — particularly impressive given its strong performance and available all-wheel drive.
Compare-At-A-Glance: Midsize Sedan Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Horsepower | Drivetrain | Combined Fuel Economy | Starting Price (CAD) |
| ⭐ Toyota Camry Hybrid | 2.5L hybrid | 232 hp | FWD / AWD | 4.9 L/100 km | $34,575 |
| Honda Accord Hybrid | 2.0L hybrid | 204 hp | FWD | ~5.0 L/100 km | ~$37,000 |
| Hyundai Sonata Hybrid | 2.0L hybrid | 192 hp | FWD | ~4.7 L/100 km | ~$39,000 |
| Kia K5 | 1.6L turbo | 180 hp | FWD / AWD | ~7.8 L/100 km | ~$32,000 |
Prices shown in Canadian dollars and rounded for comparison.
Should You Buy It Instead?
Choose the Toyota Camry Hybrid if you want a midsize sedan that prioritizes fuel efficiency, reliability and everyday comfort.
The Honda Accord Hybrid remains the better choice for drivers who want a more engaging driving experience, while the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid stands out for its bold design and tech-forward interior.
Buyers looking for a more affordable gasoline alternative may still consider the Kia K5, though it cannot match the Camry’s efficiency.
Fun Fact
For 2026 the Camry lineup is now entirely hybrid, marking the first time in the model’s history that Toyota has eliminated gasoline-only versions.
Common Questions
Is the 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid worth buying?
Yes. It offers excellent fuel efficiency, strong reliability and comfortable everyday driving, making it one of the most practical midsize sedans available.
How powerful is the Camry Hybrid?
The hybrid system produces up to 232 horsepower in all-wheel-drive form.
What fuel economy does the Camry Hybrid achieve?
Toyota rates the Camry Hybrid at about 4.9 L/100 km combined.
Does the Camry Hybrid offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. AWD models add a rear electric motor that provides additional traction when needed.
Final Thought
The 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid proves that the traditional midsize sedan still has an important place in today’s market, especially when efficiency, comfort and reliability matter most.
Vicarious Evaluation
This vehicle was tested on public roads in Quebec in real-world driving conditions including highway commuting, city traffic and late-winter weather.
Vicarious Awards Eligibility
Vehicles tested by Vicarious throughout the year are evaluated for consideration in the Vicarious Awards, which recognize excellence across multiple automotive and motorcycle categories including performance, innovation, craftsmanship and real-world usability.