2021 Lexus ES vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the introduction of the ES 250, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, priced similarly to the ES 350 with a 3.5-litre V6 and front-wheel drive. The ES 300h hybrid variant offered improved fuel efficiency at a premium. Lexus made blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard on most trims, and introduced a limited-production Black Line Edition with unique styling elements. The ES's design, characterized by its dramatic grille and sleek lines, was complemented by the F Sport trim's sporty enhancements, making it an attractive option for those seeking a blend of luxury and sportiness.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in its TRD variant, turned heads with its striking Cavalry Blue paint and performance-oriented design. Updates for the year included standard heated side mirrors and a new Nightshade Edition for the SE Hybrid. With 13 versions to choose from, the Camry offered a range of powertrains, including a fuel-efficient hybrid. The TRD model stood out with its aerodynamic body kit, matte-black wheels, and sporty accents, though its bold styling was not universally appealing. Inside, the Camry TRD featured a driver-focused layout, though some design choices, like red gauge illumination, were less successful.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and had a fuel efficiency rating of 9.4 L/100 km, though our testing averaged 10.3 L/100 km. The ES 350 Black Line Edition impressed with its firm ride quality and athleticism, though it was not a true sports sedan.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD also featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. It included a Sport mode and paddle shifters for enhanced performance. The Camry TRD achieved a fuel consumption rating of 9.4 L/100 km, with our testing averaging 9.5 L/100 km. The TRD model boasted track-tuned dynamics, with improved torsional rigidity, stiffer suspension, and larger brakes. It offered a solid and planted feel, though the lack of all-wheel drive made it easy to break the front wheels loose.

The 2021 Lexus ES offered a daring interior layout with sport-bolstered front seats featuring 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seat provided ample legroom and comfort, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power sunshade. However, the trunk space was limited to 394 litres, and the wireless smartphone charger was awkwardly placed under the centre armrest.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD had a sporty driving position with fabric seat inserts and power height adjustment for the front seats. While not the roomiest midsize sedan, the back seat accommodated two adults comfortably. The TRD model lacked rear-seat air vents and had a fixed rear seatback, limiting cargo flexibility. The trunk offered 428 litres of space, slightly more than the Lexus ES, and the Camry provided generous in-cabin storage.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a touchpad-controlled infotainment system, which required attention to operate. However, it offered separate climate and stereo controls, dynamic voice command technology, and an optional 12.3-inch widescreen display. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker sound system, with an available 17-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, with a 9-inch display available on the TRD model. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM, with additional subscription services for higher trims. The TRD model featured a 9-speaker JBL audio system, though it lacked dynamic navigation and voice recognition technology.

The 2021 Lexus ES was equipped with Lexus Safety System 2.0, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on most trims. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Camry featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and blind-spot monitoring on higher trims. Safety Connect was standard, offering collision notification and emergency assistance. The Camry also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.