Toyota Camry vs Lexus ES

The 2022 Lexus ES had long been a staple in the Lexus lineup, evolving over seven generations since its debut in 1990. Despite a decline in sales since its peak in 2007, the ES continued to attract a respectable number of buyers each year. The challenge for Lexus was to appeal to a younger demographic without alienating its loyal, older customer base. The latest generation, launched in 2018, was built on the Global Architecture-K platform, shared with models like the Toyota Camry. This platform supported both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations and offered multiple engine options. The ES boasted elegant proportions and a sleek roofline, though its spindle grille and assertive headlamp shapes were polarizing. Inside, the ES featured a layered dashboard with an asymmetrical design, offering a cockpit feel for the driver. The F Sport model added sporty two-tone leather seating, though some elements, like the analog chronometer, seemed dated.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in its TRD variant, turned heads with its eye-catching Cavalry Blue paint and performance-oriented design. The Camry TRD featured an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, and red accents, making it stand out from other Camry models. The interior, while not as polarizing as the exterior, had an unusual dashboard layout and driver-oriented center console. The Camry TRD's red gauge illumination and seatbelt accents were reminiscent of 1990s-era designs, which some found tacky. Despite its bold styling, the Camry TRD delivered on performance, offering a thrilling driving experience with its V6 engine and sport-tuned suspension. The Camry's design, though not universally loved, was a departure from the blandness of previous generations, making it a more exciting choice for those seeking a sporty sedan.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three distinct models, each with its own powertrain. The base ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It achieved an EPA rating of 25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. The ES 350, with its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivered 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, allowing for a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds. The ES 300h hybrid combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor, resulting in a net 215 hp and impressive fuel economy of 43 mpg city, 44 mpg highway, and 44 mpg combined. While the ES 250 AWD provided a smooth and predictable ride, it lacked the excitement of the V6-powered ES 350 or the fuel efficiency of the ES 300h.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, on the other hand, was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, offered a spirited driving experience. The Camry TRD's sport-tuned suspension, stiffer sway bars, and TRD shocks contributed to its track-tuned dynamics. The car's torsional rigidity was enhanced with thicker underbody braces, and it featured larger brakes and a sport dual exhaust system. Despite its performance-oriented setup, the Camry TRD managed a respectable 24.8 mpg during testing. The V6 engine provided ample power, and the car's handling was solid and secure, making it a fun choice for driving enthusiasts.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered a practical and aesthetically pleasing sedan option, with a generous 13.9 cubic feet of trunk space. The hybrid ES 300h maintained the same storage capacity, as the battery placement did not impact trunk space. The ES featured a pass-through behind the center armrest for longer items and fold-flat rear seats in the ES 250 and ES 350 models. Inside, the ES provided ample storage options, including large bottle pockets, cupholders, and a spacious center console storage bin. The dashboard layout, while not visually appealing, was functional, with a prominent volume knob for the audio system.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, while not the roomiest midsize sedan, offered a comfortable driving position with power height adjustment for the front seats. The back seat accommodated two adults comfortably, though the TRD model lacked rear-seat air vents and a folding rear seatback. The trunk, at 15.1 cubic feet, was smaller than some competitors, but the Camry made up for it with generous in-cabin storage. The center armrest bin was notably large, providing ample space for personal items.

The 2022 Lexus ES came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The standard 10-speaker Pioneer sound system could be upgraded to a 12.3-inch touchscreen with a Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system on higher trims. The ES also offered a 10-inch head-up display and a Panoramic View Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist. Lexus Enform connected services provided various trial memberships, including Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote services.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system included Safety Connect and WiFi Connect subscription services, with trial periods available. An optional 9-inch touchscreen display added Remote Connect and Service Connect plans, along with a 9-speaker JBL premium audio system. While the Camry TRD lacked dynamic connected navigation, it offered Siri or Google Assistant integration through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

The 2022 Lexus ES excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, road-sign assist, adaptive cruise control, and Intelligent High Beam Control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 10 airbags.

The 2022 Toyota Camry also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ provided adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and other driver aids. The Camry TRD came standard with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Safety Connect offered automatic collision notification and emergency assistance, with a free trial period for the first year.