Does the Camry hybrid have the same engine as the Prius?
The Toyota Camry Hybrid and Toyota Prius share some similarities in their powertrain design, but they do not have the exact same engine. The Camry Hybrid uses a different engine compared to the Prius, though both utilize Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system.
Camry Hybrid Engine vs. Prius Engine
The Toyota Camry Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, paired with an electric motor and a battery pack. The engine in the Camry Hybrid is not the same as the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine found in the Prius.
While both the Camry Hybrid and Prius use Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, which combines the gasoline engine with an electric motor and battery, the specific engine models are different. The Camry Hybrid's larger 2.5-liter engine provides more power and acceleration compared to the Prius' 1.8-liter engine.
Similarities in Hybrid Technology
Despite the differences in engine size, the Camry Hybrid and Prius share some common hybrid technology features:
- Both use a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack to store electrical energy
- Both have an electric motor that assists the gasoline engine during acceleration and can power the vehicle on electric-only mode at low speeds
- Both utilize regenerative braking to capture energy and recharge the battery pack
- Both are part of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive lineup, which is the company's signature hybrid powertrain system
While the Camry Hybrid and Prius share these hybrid system similarities, the differences in engine size and power output result in distinct driving characteristics and fuel economy ratings between the two models.
Is the Camry bigger than the Prius?
No, the Camry is bigger than the Prius, being over a foot longer and having more overall passenger space. However, the Prius has more cargo space thanks to its hatchback design, while the Camry is a sedan with a smaller trunk.
| Feature | Toyota Camry | Toyota Prius |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Size | Larger midsize sedan | Smaller compact sedan |
| Length | Over 12 inches longer than the Prius | Shorter and more compact |
| Passenger Space | More interior space, especially for rear passengers | Less interior space, particularly in the back seat |
| Cargo Space | Smaller trunk with about 15.1 cubic feet of space | More cargo space, with a hatchback design and up to 23.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats |
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Which Toyota hybrid is the most reliable?
The most reliable Toyota hybrids are the Prius, Camry Hybrid, and RAV4 Hybrid, all of which consistently rank high for reliability across different reports. The Avalon Hybrid and Highlander Hybrid also have excellent reliability records, with the Highlander noted for its longevity, often lasting over 250,000 miles.
Consistently reliable models
- Toyota Prius: Frequently ranked as one of the most reliable hybrids overall. It has a long history of owner satisfaction and is known for longevity.
- Toyota Camry Hybrid: Also earns top marks for reliability, particularly in the midsize category. It is praised for its combination of practicality, fuel economy, and dependable performance.
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: This model also consistently receives high reliability ratings, making it a dependable choice in the compact SUV segment.
Other reliable options
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Is recognized as one of the most reliable hybrid SUVs, with a strong chance of lasting over 250,000 miles.
- Toyota Avalon Hybrid: Shows a very high reliability score in some analyses, making it a strong contender for reliability.
Which Camry to stay away from?
You should stay away from the 2007–2014 Toyota Camry, particularly the 2007–2011 models with the 2.4L 2AZ-FE engine due to oil consumption issues, and the 2012–2014 models that had transmission and AC problems. The 2018–2019 models also had reports of transmission issues with their 8-speed automatics.
Specific model years to avoid and why
- 2007–2011: These models, especially those with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, are prone to excessive oil consumption due to a design flaw in the piston rings. This can lead to serious engine damage, like rod knock, if not maintained meticulously.
- 2012–2014: These years experienced recurring problems with the automatic transmission, including slipping and torque converter issues. Owners also reported a musty smell from the AC system due to mold growth, and other issues with the AC compressor or heating.
- 2018–2019: Some of these models had problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission, leading to funky shifting.
What to consider instead
If you're looking for a reliable used Camry, focus on other model years like 2005–2006, 2015, or 2016–2017 models. You may also consider models from 2010 onwards, which had more reliable engines and safety features like standard stability control.
What kind of engine does a Toyota Camry Hybrid have?
The Toyota Camry Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor and an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT). The 2025 model produces 225 horsepower with front-wheel drive and 232 horsepower with all-wheel drive, a significant power increase from the previous generation's 208 horsepower.
- Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.
- Hybrid System: The engine is paired with at least one electric motor and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery.
- Transmission: It uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) which can also be manually shifted for simulated gears.
- Horsepower:
- Front-wheel drive (FWD): 225 horsepower.
- All-wheel drive (AWD): 232 horsepower.
- Drivetrain: The 2025 model is hybrid-only and offers both FWD and an on-demand AWD system that adds a rear-mounted electric motor.
