2021 Toyota Camry vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2021 Toyota Camry dedicated considerable effort to break away from its stodgy past by embracing a more dynamic design. It sported flared wheel arches and thin headlights and taillights that gave it a visually broader appearance. However, trims like the SE, XSE, and TRD included fake vents that cluttered the look, whereas the LE and XLE models had a massive but somewhat cleaner grille. Built on the TNGA-K platform shared with models like the Avalon sedan and RAV SUV, the Camry exhibited some significant structural changes. Most trim levels had a revised front fascia, although the changes weren't extreme. The TRD model came with distinct styling elements like a larger rear spoiler, and the Nightshade Edition continued with blacked-out exterior trim and distinct wheels, making it visually distinct.

In stark contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX presented the aesthetic stance of a luxury sedan that was almost a class larger. It was over three inches wider and nine inches longer than competitors like the BMW 3 Series, with all four wheels stretched out to the fenders for maximum stability. The TLX displayed striking thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and large tailpipes at each side. The Type S trim added extraordinary features like Tiger Eye Pearl paint, Performance Red Pearl body color, and 20-inch Y-spoke gray wheels inspired by the Acura NSX. The TLX's body exuded a luxury feel without overt styling fuss, aside from the L-shaped running lights and starburst grille effect.

Inside, the TLX mirrored its bold exterior with intricate detailing. From a luxurious interior featuring suede inserts, red stitching, and real metal shift paddles to bold color options like creamy white leather with black suede stripes, the TLX showcased a nearly matchless level of attention to detail. The Camry, on the other hand, had a more chaotic interior style. The SE Nightshade Edition's dashboard appeared like a mishmash of parts from different vehicles, with contrast stitching, piano black plastic, and faux carbon fiber trim scattered throughout. Unfortunately, the materials in the Camry's cabin also looked and felt subpar.

The 2021 Toyota Camry had multiple powertrain options. The base was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Dynamic Force engine offering 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque with FWD, and slightly lower figures with AWD. The XSE models with dual-exhaust could reach 206 hp and 186 lb-ft. Toyota maintained an old-school naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced an impressive 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. There was also the Camry Hybrid, pairing the 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor to deliver 208 hp. Our SE Nightshade Edition had the base four-cylinder engine with AWD, surprising us with its eager-to-rev nature and good grunt, making it fun to drive.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX housed a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine capable of 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a precise 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX started as an FWD but could be upgraded to the SH-AWD system for $2000. This sophisticated system could instantly vary torque at either rear wheel to improve stability and handling precision, a significant edge over competitors. The TLX Type S took performance to another level with a 3.0-liter turbo V6 generating 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. It excelled on the track thanks to its double-wishbone front suspension, adaptive dampers, and Pirelli P Zero summer tires. Despite being a sports-oriented sedan, the TLX Type S didn't sacrifice comfort while delivering a balanced, predictable handling experience.

The 2021 Toyota Camry was about average for cargo space, offering 15.1 cubic feet—falling behind the more spacious Honda Accord. Rear headroom and legroom were generous, but at the expense of front space, which was below average. However, adjustable front seats provided comfort and support, and outward visibility was impressive. Interior storage was limited, with small cup holders and door bins. Importantly, Toyota included analog controls for essential functions, enhancing ease of use.

Meanwhile, despite its substantial exterior dimensions, the Acura TLX felt snug inside. The back seat had decent headroom but lacked legroom, reflective of its compact wheelbase. The front seats were immensely comfortable, especially in the Type S trim, which offered a thigh extension and adjustable side bolsters. The TLX's unique touchpad interface required some practice but was manageable over time. However, its cargo capacity was a limiting factor, offering just 13.5 cubic feet—less than a Honda Civic. Despite its larger body, the TLX could have allocated more space for either cargo or cabin room.

The 2021 Toyota Camry came equipped with a basic but functional infotainment system. Standard features included a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims got a 9-inch touchscreen, WiFi, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. Although the graphics were plain, the system was easy to navigate and included essential analog controls for audio and climate settings.

For the 2022 Acura TLX, its infotainment system was simple and quick but marred by small typefaces that were difficult to read. The Advance Package included a comprehensive list of features like a head-up display, 360-degree cameras, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The ELS Studio audio system, standard on the Type S, featured 17 speakers and delivered impressive sound quality. The voice recognition system was highly accurate, and the TLX featured intelligent climate control linked to navigation. Also included were standard safety technologies that could assist with semi-automated driving.

The 2021 Toyota Camry excelled in safety, earning a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The TSS 2.5+ package of safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. Additionally, a rear seat reminder system and enhanced adaptive cruise control further boosted its safety credentials.

The 2022 Acura TLX also achieved a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with only a four-star rating for the frontal passenger-side test. Standard safety features included knee airbags, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, auto high beams, and traffic-sign recognition. The Tech Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, ensuring comprehensive safety for its passengers.