2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade vs 2026 Toyota Corolla SE
On paper, the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade wins on 12 MPG better, 63 more hp, 11.0″ longer. The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 232 vs 169 hp, 46 vs 34 MPG.
The Camry Nightshade leads on 12 MPG better, 63 more hp. The Corolla SE leads on $8,760 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade | 2026 Toyota Corolla SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,125 | $25,365 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 232 hp | 169 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 151 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 46 | 31 |
| Highway MPG | 46 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 46 | 34 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,300/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,627 lbs | 3,110 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 106.3" |
| Length | 193.5" | 182.5" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.1" |
| Height | 56.9" | 56.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade and 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE starts at $25,365, $8,760 less than the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade at $34,125. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $154/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade?
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $322/year less on fuel; the extra 63 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,760 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade or 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade rates 46 combined MPG, 12 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade or 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade produces 232 hp, 63 more than the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE at 169 hp. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE uses a 2.0L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade, FWD on the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE.
Is the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade bigger than the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade is 11.0″ longer at 193.5″ vs 182.5″. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade has a 4.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade and 2026 Toyota Corolla SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade comes with AWD, while the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Camry trims, Toyota Corolla trims
Camry vs Corolla: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade and 2026 Toyota Corolla SE are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-8,760 gap adds up to $154/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE uses a 2.0L I4. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade has 63 more hp (232 vs 169). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade comes with AWD; the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Camry vs Corolla
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade saves roughly $322/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,610.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade is 11.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade weighs 517 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $322/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE when you want to keep $8,760 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Toyota or any dealership.