2020 Camry SE with 20k miles or a New Corolla, which one should I go for?

Hey everyone, I’m new to Toyotas and I’m stuck deciding between a brand new Corolla or a 2020 Camry with 20k miles. I started the process to buy the Camry on Friday but had to leave for work before finalizing with the finance guy. Now I’ve been reading up on Corollas, and they seem pretty solid too. Both the Camry SE and the Corolla SE are priced the same at $26,500, but there’s also a Corolla LE for $23k. Not sure what the big difference is besides the front grill? The Camry is certified pre-owned, so it has a solid warranty, but I assume new Toyotas come with good warranties too? This is my first time buying a car over $12k—I usually pay cash for older ones. Planning to keep this for a while. I’m single, in my mid-30s, work in sales, and drive around 100 miles a day. Would appreciate any advice!

Camry all the way. It looks better and drives better. The newer infotainment layout (2021 or 2022 I think) is nicer, but even without that, the Camry just has a better look overall.

Indra said:
Camry all the way. It looks better and drives better. The newer infotainment layout (2021 or 2022 I think) is nicer, but even without that, the Camry just has a better look overall.

Thanks! I’m leaning towards the Camry too. It just looks so much better.

Stick with the Camry. You’ll be more comfortable, and it’s a great choice with good mileage. The Corolla’s nice, but for the amount of time you’re on the road, the Camry’s a better fit. I usually go with the Highlander for similar reasons. Toyota CPO warranties are good, but maybe add extra coverage if you can. I’d still pick the Camry.

@Kelby
This is the way.

@Kelby
Congrats on your new car!

Mid-30s? Take care of that Camry, and it’ll last you until you’re ready to retire.

Alton said:
Mid-30s? Take care of that Camry, and it’ll last you until you’re ready to retire.

Exactly why I’m looking for something newer. I’ve been buying $5-8k cars cash that last about 3 years since I drive 25-30k miles a year. With a new or low-mileage Toyota, I’m hoping to get 6-8 years and run it to 200k with good maintenance. Seems like everyone’s saying ‘go for the Camry,’ so I think that’s what I’ll do haha.

Camry’s more practical and comfortable.

A 2020 Camry for $26.5k? If it’s the LE or SE, you could get a new one for around $27-30k. I’d go for the new Corolla or see if you can find a new Camry. New cars give you zero miles, 2 years/25k miles of free maintenance, and the full factory warranty. But between Camry and Corolla, I’d pick the Camry—better ride, similar fuel economy if you’re on the highway, more space, and it just looks better.

@Ophelia
The Camry’s the SE Nightshade edition. The dealership does free oil changes for life, and it’s certified pre-owned.

lyra said:
@Ophelia
The Camry’s the SE Nightshade edition. The dealership does free oil changes for life, and it’s certified pre-owned.

The SE Nightshade MSRP is about $29.8k new. As long as it has a good warranty, you should be good, but I’d still suggest going new if possible. The new models have updated infotainment screens too.

If you’re already spending that much, consider going for a brand-new Camry for a bit more.

If the Camry came in manual, I’d pick it over my Corolla hatchback any day. The Corolla feels tight inside.

Since you’re driving a lot, the Camry’s definitely more comfortable. If you can, try to step up to a new Camry LE 2023 if possible. MSRP’s around $26k anyway, unless you’re set on the Nightshade edition.

@Darin
Thought about it, but it’ll be over a month before the local dealerships have any new Camrys.

lyra said:
@Darin
Thought about it, but it’ll be over a month before the local dealerships have any new Camrys.

Can you wait? If you’re able, I’d suggest holding out.

Darin said:

lyra said:
@Darin
Thought about it, but it’ll be over a month before the local dealerships have any new Camrys.

Can you wait? If you’re able, I’d suggest holding out.

I kind of need one now. My transmission went out, and a buddy’s letting me borrow his car for a week or two, but not much longer.

Camry unless you’re looking at the 6MT Corolla hatchback.