Škoda Superb vs. Toyota Camry: Complete comparison 2026

Škoda Superb, the traditional flagship of the Czech carmaker, represents for many drivers an unsurpassed benchmark of spaciousness, practicality, and travel comfort. Standing against it is the global bestseller Toyota Camry, also sold in some markets as the Daihatsu Altis, which has earned a worldwide reputation as an exceptionally reliable sedan focused on efficient hybrid propulsion and a smooth ride. The following comparison will provide a detailed look at the strengths and weaknesses of both these exceptional models and help you decide which one will better suit your daily needs.

When choosing a used mid-size car, typically around four years old, exterior dimensions play a key role in both interior spaciousness and trouble-free daily parking. When comparing the third-generation Škoda Superb and the eighth-generation Toyota Camry (XV70 generation), we are looking at two different approaches to body construction. While the Japanese automaker relies exclusively on a traditional sedan with an elegantly low silhouette, the Czech representative counters with a very practical liftback with a rear hatch and the exceptionally popular estate (Combi) variant on our market.

A detailed look at the specifications may reveal a surprise: the Toyota Camry, with a total length of 4 885 mm, is 16 mm longer than the Škoda Superb liftback (4 869 mm). This difference gives the Toyota a slim and elongated profile. The Superb, on the other hand, dominates in terms of width, where its 1 864 mm surpasses its Japanese rival by a noticeable 24 mm. In practice, this extra width means not only a more stable stance on the road and better lateral maneuverability but, above all, valuable extra millimeters for the shoulders of adult passengers inside the cabin.

A crucial measure for rear passenger comfort is the wheelbase. Here, Škoda has a slight edge with a value of 2 841 mm, which is 16 mm more than the Camry (2 825 mm). The Superb also has a taller body structure – the liftback measures up to 1 469 mm in height and the estate 1 477 mm, while the Toyota is significantly lower at 1 445 mm. While the low build helps the Toyota achieve a sportier and more aerodynamic appearance, from a purely practical standpoint, the longer wheelbase, wider track, and higher roof predispose the Škoda Superb to the role of king of interior space. For buyers, the deciding factor will be whether they prefer the dynamic style of an elegant Japanese sedan or the maximized family spaciousness of the Czech car.

For buyers of used family cars and executive cruisers, trunk volume is often one of the main decision criteria. In this regard, roughly four-year-old third-generation Škoda Superb and Toyota Camry (XV70 generation) models represent two completely different approaches to interior space utilization. While the Superb excels in absolute maximization of transport capacity thanks to its liftback and estate body styles, Toyota bets on a classic sedan body design, which naturally prioritizes a representative appearance and better separation of the cabin from the trunk at the expense of hauling capabilities.

The Czech representative traditionally dominates not only its class in terms of spaciousness. The standard Škoda Superb with its practical liftback body offers a massive basic trunk volume of 625 liters, which grows to 1,760 liters after folding the rear seats. If you choose the even more family-oriented estate variant, you get 660 liters as standard and a staggering 1,950 liters after folding the backrests. It is worth mentioning the widely represented plug-in hybrid versions labeled iV, where the capacity is slightly reduced due to battery placement to 485 liters for the liftback and 510 liters for the estate. In practice, however, this still means space for several extra suitcases and trouble-free packing for the whole family for a long trip.

On the other hand, the Toyota Camry, available on the European market exclusively as a hybrid sedan, offers a trunk with a solid basic volume of 524 liters. Although the rear seat backrests can be folded (standard 60:40 split) to transport longer items, the rigid structure of the rear part of the body does not allow for loading tall boxes up to the roof, which is why the maximum volume for the Camry is understandably not specified. The value of 524 liters is fully sufficient for weekend shopping and longer holidays for two or with one child. You will only notice the difference when you try to load a stroller or bulky sports equipment – here, the Japanese car hits the limits of its smaller loading opening.

Thanks to these characteristics, it is clear that both cars target slightly different audiences. If you regularly transport large items and are looking for ultimate and maximally usable space, the Superb has almost no competition on the used car market. The Camry, on the other hand, will appeal to drivers for whom the trunk is just a place to put travel bags and who do not expect their car to play the role of a family mover.

The ability to tow a trailer is a key parameter for many drivers, fundamentally influencing the overall utility of a car. When comparing roughly four-year-old used cars, specifically the 3rd generation Škoda Superb and the Toyota Camry generation XV70, we encounter a vast difference in this discipline. These two models approach towing loads quite differently.

In this regard, the Škoda Superb proves to be a highly versatile vehicle. Its standard braked trailer weight for the base 1.5 TSI petrol engine starts at 1600 kg. For the more powerful 2.0 TSI and TDI versions, the maximum braked trailer weight ranges from an impressive 1800 to 2200 kg. An unbraked trailer can weigh the traditional 750 kg. This capacity is perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping or a longer holiday with a large family caravan. Alternatively, it provides space for a few extra suitcases in a small trailer. A major advantage is that even the plug-in hybrid variant, the Superb iV (1.4 TSI), offers a solid braked towing capacity of 1600 kg.

At the opposite end of the spectrum stands the Toyota Camry. The XV70 generation is available on the European market exclusively with the reliable 2.5 Hybrid powertrain. However, the price for this fuel-efficient hybrid technology is a radically reduced utility in terms of towing. To protect the complex hybrid system, this model does not have an approved towing capacity for our market, and the maximum permitted weight for both braked and unbraked trailers for the Camry is 0 kg. Any tow bar will therefore serve exclusively as a mount for a bike rack.

In terms of overall practicality for towing, the result of this comparison is clear. The Toyota Camry is completely out of the running for those who need to transport bulky loads regularly or occasionally, while the Škoda Superb remains an unbeatable workhorse.

The approach of both carmakers to engine options shows two completely different worlds. While Škoda follows a traditional European path with the Superb model, offering a wide range of turbocharged petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines, Toyota Camry bets on Japanese efficiency and narrows its European offering to a single, yet perfected hybrid system without the need for external charging. For buyers of used cars roughly four years old (from model years 2020–2022), this means a clear choice: either you choose a powertrain at Škoda tailored exactly to your annual mileage and preferences (from an efficient diesel for long distances to a powerful all-wheel drive), or at Toyota, you opt for a universal, famously reliable, and incredibly fuel-efficient full-hybrid system in the city, which saves you the worry of choosing an engine or dealing with cables.

The third-generation Škoda Superb after its facelift offers a rich palette of powertrains covering the requirements of all types of drivers. The entry-level petrol choice is the 1.5 TSI four-cylinder with cylinder deactivation technology, while for more demanding users, a powerful 2.0 TSI two-liter is available, which in its top variant was also paired with all-wheel drive. The proven 2.0 TDI turbodiesel remains the king of the highway and a sought-after fleet used car, tuned to 110 kW or 147 kW. A plug-in hybrid variant, the 1.4 TSI iV, is also available in this age category, combining a petrol engine with an electric motor, where the system output of 160 kW is complemented by the possibility of pure electric range. Most available engines rely on the popular DSG dual-clutch automatic transmissions, although more basic versions also offered a manual.

In the case of the Toyota Camry XV70 generation (sold in Europe since 2019), the situation in the used car market is significantly simpler. The customer simply chooses a full hybrid powertrain (HEV) that does not require external charging. It consists of an efficiently operating 2.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol four-cylinder and a powerful electric motor. The total system output is a generous 160 kW (218 hp). The battery is constantly recharged through regenerative braking and excess energy from the engine. Driving force is smoothly transmitted exclusively to the front wheels via a reliable electronically controlled e-CVT planetary gearbox. This powertrain scores with silky quiet operation in the city, exemplary operational reliability, and real-world combined fuel consumption that can easily compete with modern diesels.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction with a car, which is why our recommendations are based on performance, real-world fuel consumption, owner feedback, and proven mechanical reliability. Looking under the hood of both cars, you encounter two completely different worlds and approaches to modern motoring. While the 3rd generation Škoda Superb benefits from the enormous variability of the VW Group and offered a wide range of petrol, plug-in hybrid, and diesel power units during its production years, Toyota bet everything on a single card. An interesting fact clearly emerges from the available data: the Toyota Camry generation XV70 was sold on our market in the relevant years (2019 to 2021) exclusively with one naturally aspirated hybrid engine. In contrast to the Superb, which tries to satisfy everyone from thrifty managers to highway speedsters with 200kW petrol engines, the Camry offers a unified recipe focused on extreme durability and worry-free operation.

For the Škoda Superb, we recommend: 2.0 TDI SCR (110 kW / 150 hp)

If you are choosing a Superb roughly 4 years old, the two-liter diesel from the EA288 series (often in the newer EVO specification) is the uncrowned king of the used car market. It is the best choice thanks to a fantastic balance between daily dynamics, reliability, and minimal operating costs. Technically, it offers 340 Nm of torque, which is more than enough even for a loaded estate, and at normal highway or combined speeds, it can drive with an impressive real-world consumption between 4.5 and 5.5 liters per 100 km. In terms of risks, however, it is necessary to remember that this is a modern diesel. It is bothered by long-term stop-and-go city driving, where it doesn't have time to regenerate the DPF (diesel particulate filter) – you can recognize a blockage by reduced pull or an engine warning light. Pay close attention to the seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission with wet clutches. For its survival, changing the oil every 60,000 km is critical. During the test drive, focus on whether the car pulls away completely smoothly; any jerking or hesitation from the transmission indicates neglected service and an expensive problem. For the engine itself, preventively shorten the nonsensical "long-life" oil change intervals from 30,000 km to a maximum of 15,000 km. This engine is by far most suitable for drivers who travel long distances, swallow up highway kilometers, and drive at least 20,000 km per year.

For the Toyota Camry, we recommend: 2.5 Hybrid (160 kW / 218 hp)

As already mentioned, with the Toyota Camry XV70 between 2019 and 2021, you have only one available engine choice, but fortunately, it is a structural masterpiece that is the embodiment of the word reliability. The technological advantage is the perfect synchronization of a large 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder with an electric motor through an e-CVT planetary gearbox. This system provides a combined 160 kW, which is enough for a sprint from zero to a hundred in 8.3 seconds, and yet it does not have a traditional starter, alternator, turbocharger, or complex friction clutches. The result is a practically immortal powertrain that drives smoothly and quietly in congested cities or on country roads with consumption between 5 and 6 liters of petrol. Risks and weaknesses are minimal, but you should still check the air intake grille for cooling the traction battery on a used car (located in the cabin under the rear seats). If it is covered in dust or hair from the interior, the battery overheats, which significantly shortens its lifespan – a clean grille, on the other hand, indicates a conscientious previous owner. A specific feature that must be tested during a test drive is the behavior of the e-CVT transmission itself. When the accelerator is pressed hard, it revs the engine to high RPMs and holds it there steadily until you release the pedal. This "vacuum cleaner effect" might not suit everyone. The hybrid Camry is thus most suitable for calmer, smooth-driving drivers, people living in suburban areas, and those who require absolutely maintenance-free luxury with minimal risk of expensive repairs.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers often differ significantly from the harsh reality on the roads, which is why it is always more valuable to rely on the experiences of real owners when choosing a used car. To compare roughly four-year-old cars—the 3rd generation Škoda Superb (facelift) and the Toyota Camry generation XV70—we used long-term data from the independent community portal Spritmonitor. While the Škoda's turbocharged petrol and diesel engines show traditional deviations from the norms depending on driving style, Toyota demonstrates that its full hybrid powertrain maintains surprisingly stable and very favorable figures regardless of laboratory tests.

Evaluation and Engine Trends

A look at real-world consumption brings extremely interesting findings for both vehicles. The classic two-liter diesel (2.0 TDI) from Škoda remains the unbeatable king of long highway journeys, representing the benchmark of efficiency with a long-term average of 5.4 liters of diesel per 100 km. However, the result of the Toyota Camry is technologically even more compelling. Although its powertrain relies on a large-displacement 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine combined with an electric motor, it shows almost identical consumption (5.5 l/100 km) to the diesel Superb. Yet, this large limousine does not have a cable for external battery charging. An expected disappointment in terms of maximizing savings may be Škoda's turbocharged petrol engines. The base 1.5 TSI is noticeably "thirstier" than its diesel counterpart, averaging 6.6 liters, while the powerful top-of-the-line 2.0 TSI requires more than 8 liters of fuel for its performance.

What This Means for Typical Users

• Highway drivers: If the majority of your annual mileage consists of smooth journeys on domestic or foreign highways, the diesel Superb (2.0 TDI) will be the clear and unbeatable choice. At a steady high speed, the hybrid's advantage disappears, and the diesel dominates.
• City and suburban commuters: Here, the Toyota Camry absolutely rules. When crawling in traffic jams and at city speeds, it can use the electric part of the powertrain very effectively. Consumption drops where it rises sharply for other cars, and furthermore, the nightmare associated with clogging DPF filters during short diesel trips is completely eliminated.
• Budget-conscious buyers: If you watch your expenses at the petrol pump, you will reach into your pocket for almost the same amount with both the hybrid Camry and the diesel Superb. Škoda's petrol engines (especially the 2.0 TSI) are more attractive to lovers of more spirited driving—whether for the performance itself or the possibility of all-wheel drive (which is not offered on the Camry XV70)—but it is necessary to pay significantly more when refueling.

Will Fuel Decide the Overall Winner?

The liter average alone will not decide the final verdict when buying a four-year-old used car, as both vehicles can drive with impressive modesty for their category. Ultimately, the profile of your journeys is decisive. While the Škoda with the TDI engine is a perfectly tuned tool for swallowing thousands of highway kilometers at a time, the Toyota Camry with 2.5 Hybrid technology represents an absolutely brilliant all-rounder. Outside the city, it claims a fuel allowance like a good diesel, but in the urban jungle, it brings savings that classic internal combustion engines can only dream of.

When looking at the market for roughly four-year-old used cars (2021 to 2022 models), you encounter two completely different worlds. While the domestic Škoda Superb is an absolute phenomenon and one of the most common cars in Czech used car dealerships, the Japanese Toyota Camry is more of a niche alternative for a more specific target group. This is fundamentally reflected not only in the total number of available cars but also in the dynamics of their value depreciation on the secondary market.

• Škoda Superb (2021–2022): approx. €18,000 – €35,000
• Toyota Camry (2021–2022): approx. €23,000 – €33,000

Škoda Superb: King of corporate fleets

Thanks to its massive presence in corporate fleets, the selection of used Superbs is huge. This also brings significant price variability. The lowest price tags (starting around €18,000) are for cars with mileages well exceeding 150,000 kilometres, mostly with the base 1.5 TSI engine or the popular 2.0 TDI diesel in lower trim levels.

At the opposite end of the price spectrum, we find top-equipped Sportline variants or the luxurious Laurin & Klement with a powerful 2.0 TSI engine and all-wheel drive, or the iV plug-in hybrid versions. These attractive cars with lower mileage can easily exceed the €33,000 mark even after four years. Customers thus have a huge range of choices exactly according to their budget and body style preferences (both liftback and the more practical estate).

Toyota Camry: The conservative hybrid choice

The supply of used Toyota Camry cars on the Czech and European markets is significantly smaller. The eighth-generation Camry is sold in the Old Continent exclusively as a full-hybrid sedan (2.5 Hybrid e-CVT), which means the absence of any cheaper "entry-level" engine with a manual transmission. The starting price on the used car market is thus noticeably higher, beginning at roughly €23,000 for four-year-old cars.

A major advantage for owners (and less so for buyers) is, on the other hand, the legendary reliability of the Japanese hybrid system, thanks to which the Camry holds its residual value fantastically. The depreciation curve is flatter and the price range narrower – well-maintained models in the top Executive VIP trim can usually be found for up to €33,000.

Quick market comparison (2021–2022 models)

Although both cars are often associated with a five-star safety rating (NCAP) on a global scale, when choosing a roughly four-year-old used car, it is absolutely crucial to know the exact context and the year of the specific testing. The protocols of the independent Euro NCAP organization are constantly evolving and becoming significantly stricter. Tests conducted in earlier years placed slightly less emphasis on active accident prevention and did not include today's modern scenarios, such as advanced detection of cyclists, pedestrians, or vehicle behavior at intersections. For this reason, percentage results across different eras of methodology cannot be simply and directly compared.

The third generation of the Škoda Superb, which today forms the main offering among four-year-old used cars, was tested by Euro NCAP in 2015. According to the standards of that time, which are now somewhat milder, it achieved a full five stars with very solid partial results. Although the validity of this specific certificate officially expired at the beginning of 2022 and the tests did not include modern simulations of intersection networks, the car's passive safety remains at a high level. For completeness and with regard to the brand's long-term safety tradition, let us add that in the very latest tests from 2024, the completely new fourth generation of the Superb model again defended five stars (with an excellent 93% for adults and 80% for assistance systems), which proves the high engineering standard of the car over the years.

Conversely, with the eighth generation of the Toyota Camry, which arrived on the European market in 2019, we encounter a specific detail – this model was not officially tested by Euro NCAP at all during its European production. For this reason, there are no European percentage data for it, and thus the column in our table remains without numerical values. However, this in no way means that it is a less safe car. The car passed with flying colors in 2017 the closely related and very strict Australian ANCAP tests (which share a similar evaluation philosophy) with a full gain of five stars. Furthermore, Toyota compensates for the absence of a European test by installing an exceptionally rich standard active safety equipment, Toyota Safety Sense, in the Camry. This includes:

• Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection.
• Adaptive Cruise Control maintaining a safe distance.
• Lane Departure Alert and automatic high beam switching.

In terms of current standards, both cars guarantee great passive safety for the family. However, from today's perspective, the Toyota Camry may appear as a more comprehensively protected vehicle in the area of active prevention, thanks to its rich standard equipment of intelligent assistants. On the other hand, the Škoda Superb has an indisputable advantage in the form of clear and transparent European Euro NCAP certification, from which European buyers can easily look up the official characteristics of the crumple zones.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique elements and a specific approach to added value, which can often be key to the customer's final decision. While the Czech representative bets on its legendary practicality and wide range of individualization options, the Japanese sedan brings proven hybrid technology and unexpected luxury for rear passengers to the mid-size class.

Škoda Superb: Royal space and clever solutions

The flagship from Mladá Boleslav has long been the benchmark for interior spaciousness, but it also scores with a huge number of practical details and modern technologies that make everyday life easier.

• Simply Clever solutions: The Superb offers features you won't find with the competition. Among the most iconic are the umbrella compartments in the front doors, the ice scraper hidden under the fuel filler flap (with an integrated tread depth gauge), or the cup holder with a non-slip bottom that allows you to open a PET bottle with one hand.
• Lighting technology and visibility: In higher trim levels (or after the facelift), the Superb is equipped with advanced Matrix-LED headlights. These can keep the high beams on permanently and intelligently mask oncoming vehicles, which significantly increases safety and reduces fatigue during night drives.
• Adaptive Chassis (DCC): The option of electronic damping adjustment allows the driver to switch between wafting comfort for long highway trips and a stiffer sport mode for more confident cornering.
• Infotainment and connectivity: Top versions of the multimedia system (e.g., Columbus with a 9.2" display) are complemented by a digital instrument cluster (Virtual Cockpit) with wide display customization options. There is also support for wireless smartphone mirroring or remote access via a mobile app.
• Specific trim lines: Customers can choose between the exceptionally elegant and luxurious Laurin & Klement version, which offers premium leather upholstery and ventilated seats, or the dynamically tuned Sportline version with black accents, sports seats, and a lowered chassis.

Toyota Camry: Hybrid efficiency and executive luxury

The Camry approaches the executive sedan category differently. It doesn't try to impress with the number of body styles but focuses on maximum reliability, cabin quietness, and technologies inspired by the premium Lexus brand.

• Hybrid drive and efficiency: At the heart of the Camry is the sophisticated 2.5 Hybrid Dynamic Force system. It doesn't need external charging, yet it allows the car to operate purely on electricity for a large part of the time, especially in city and suburban traffic. The result is an incredibly low real-world fuel consumption for a sedan of this size.
• Unique VIP package for rear passengers: In the highest trim levels (e.g., Executive with the VIP package), the Camry offers a feature more common in luxury limousines. A touchscreen is integrated into the massive rear armrest, through which rear passengers can control an independent climate zone, the audio system, the rear window sunshade, and even electrically adjust the angle of their backrests.
• TNGA Architecture: Although the Camry is primarily a comfortable cruiser, thanks to the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform, it has a very low center of gravity and an exceptionally rigid body. This has a positive effect on the car's stability and surprisingly agile handling characteristics.
• Acoustic comfort: The automaker placed great emphasis on cabin soundproofing. The use of acoustic glass and thick layers of insulating materials ensures that absolute peace reigns in the interior during smooth highway driving or in electric mode in the city.
• Comprehensive safety package: Even in the base version, the Camry is usually equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite. This includes intelligent adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, and an advanced pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, giving the driver maximum peace of mind during the daily commute.

Škoda Superb represents the absolute pinnacle of practicality and is ideal for families or managers who frequently cover long distances and need to transport bulky luggage. A wide selection of power units and body styles makes it an exceptionally versatile and desirable car that easily adapts to almost any need.

Toyota Camry is a perfect choice for calmer drivers looking for an understated yet maximally reliable and economical cruiser that won't require unexpected service investments. Its sophisticated hybrid powertrain excels in daily traffic, but due to the lack of a more practical estate version, it will appeal more to those for whom moving large cargo is not a priority.

Based on service records, long-term user experiences, and our own detailed used car inspections as part of the CarAudit service, we have compiled a detailed overview of the most common problems to look out for when choosing roughly four-year-old cars.

Skoda Superb

The third-generation Skoda Superb (especially after the 2019 facelift) is a generally sturdy car, but its more modern technological equipment brings with it several specific weaknesses.

• Electronics and infotainment: The newer MIB3 entertainment system (installed from mid-2020) is known among owners for slow responses, occasional screen freezing, or smartphone connection drops. Emergency call modules (eCall) can also be problematic. The solution is usually a gradual software update.
• Engine compartment: In the widely represented 2.0 TDI diesel engines, our mechanics performing physical inspections of used cars often encounter slow coolant leaks through a leaking water pump. Occasionally, there are also sensor failures in the urea injection system (AdBlue), the replacement of which can be expensive.
• Transmission: The popular seven-speed DSG automatic transmissions with wet clutches (DQ381 in 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TSI engines) are mechanically robust, but they strictly require an oil change every 60,000 km. In contrast, the base 1.5 TSI petrol engine is paired with a more sensitive dry DSG (DQ200), where the clutches wear out sooner and it can occasionally jerk when crawling in traffic jams.
• Chassis and soundproofing: Cars with higher mileage may suffer from front axle creaking when driving over bumps, most often caused by worn control arm bushings. DCC adaptive dampers (often present in Style or L&K trims) have an above-average lifespan, but around the 150,000 km mark, they may start to leak oil slightly.

Toyota Camry

The eighth-generation Toyota Camry (code-named XV70) is considered a global benchmark for durability. Any potential problems are usually not mechanical in nature and relate more to user comfort and design compromises.

• Infotainment: Clearly the weakest point of the entire car. The onboard system's graphics look very outdated, the display tends to have a slower touch response, and the stability of the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connection is not 100% in earlier model years.
• Bodywork and paint: Japanese brands are notorious for thinner and softer eco-friendly paint. For the Camry, a physical inspection of the car is therefore extremely important on the front grille and hood, which are often literally peppered with small stone chips on motorway-driven units.
• Powertrain: The hybrid system with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder and the e-CVT planetary gearbox are almost immortal from a reliability standpoint and function flawlessly if annual service intervals are followed. Exceptionally, owners deal with a prematurely discharged 12-volt battery if the car sits for a long time without moving.
• Chassis and brakes: Due to the primary use of strong electric motor recuperation, conventional disc brakes only come into action later. If the car is driven gently, the rear brake discs can rust excessively due to minimal use. Regular firm braking eliminates this problem.
• Soundproofing and build quality: In their feedback, owners quite often point to higher aerodynamic noise coming from the A-pillars and exterior mirrors at highway speeds. Occasionally, there are also reports of minor resonances from harder dashboard plastics on poorer roads.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are a few specific points to focus on for these two models, and before the purchase itself, a detailed Independent car technical inspection is always worth it.

When choosing a Škoda Superb:

• DSG gearbox behavior: During the test drive, monitor the smoothness of take-offs. Jerking, hesitation when pressing the accelerator, or shocks during shifting can indicate worn clutches or neglected oil changes (which should occur every 60,000 km at the latest).
• Infotainment stability: MIB3 systems (installed after the facelift from roughly 2020 onwards) suffered in the early years from freezing, sound dropouts, and spontaneous restarts. Check the screen's responsiveness, the functionality of phone mirroring, and verify if the latest software has been installed.
• Coolant leaks (on TDI engines): On the widely used two-liter diesel engines, problems with a leaking water pump occasionally appear. Look under the hood at the coolant level and search for traces of dried pink fluid on the engine block.
• Front axle and DCC chassis: If you are choosing a version with adaptive chassis (DCC), try switching between driving modes. Listen carefully when driving over bumps and speed bumps – dull thuds from the front axle often reveal worn control arm silent blocks or the dampers themselves.
• Condition of Matrix LED headlights: Take the time to check the expensive front headlights on higher trim levels. If any of the LEDs flicker or the system fails to correctly mask oncoming cars, the repair usually involves replacing the entire headlight, which represents a huge financial cost.

When choosing a Toyota Camry:

• Smoothness of the hybrid system and e-CVT: While the Toyota hybrid is a benchmark for reliability, you should still check the smoothness of the transition between electric and internal combustion power. The e-CVT gearbox must function perfectly linearly – any unusual humming or jerking during acceleration is a warning sign.
• Condition of brake discs: Thanks to the strong recuperation of the hybrid system, the conventional brakes on the Camry work much less than on regular cars. Ensure that the discs (especially the rear ones) are not deeply rusted or warped due to insufficient use.
• Paint quality and chassis corrosion: Japanese cars traditionally have a softer and thinner layer of paint. Thoroughly inspect the front hood and bumper for damage from flying stones and look under the car – surface corrosion of the exhaust pipe and axle subframes appears earlier on the Camry than on European competitors.
• Insulation and aerodynamic noise: Take it out on the highway and listen to the noise in the cabin. On some units, the door seals fatigue prematurely, which manifests as a more pronounced wind whistle and higher penetration of noise from the rolling tires.
• Multimedia system speed: More outdated graphics and slower infotainment responses are a common feature of this model, not a defect. However, before buying, personally test whether the system suits you in practice and how reliably it connects to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

Sources: ADAC, svetmotoru.cz, e15.cz, autozive.cz, autosalon.tv, carstyle.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.