2022 Lexus ES vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The 2022 Lexus ES, a staple in the Lexus lineup since its debut in 1990, had evolved over seven generations by 2022. Despite a decline in sales, it remained a popular choice among an older demographic, which posed a challenge for Lexus as it sought to attract younger buyers without alienating its loyal customer base. The ES, built on the Global Architecture-K platform, offered a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with an option for all-wheel drive. Its design featured elegant proportions, a sleek roofline, and the distinctive Lexus "spindle" grille. Inside, the ES boasted a well-crafted interior with an asymmetrical dashboard and sporty F Sport packaging, though some elements, like the analog chronometer, seemed outdated.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly the TRD model, caught the attention of younger audiences with its eye-catching Cavalry Blue paint and performance-oriented design. The Camry offered 13 different versions, with pricing ranging from $27,750 to $41,390 Canadian. The TRD model featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine, aerodynamic body kit, and sporty elements like red brake calipers and matte-black wheels. While the Camry's styling was bold and polarizing, it addressed past criticisms of being boring. Inside, the Camry TRD had a driver-oriented layout, though some elements, like red gauge illumination, were less appealing. Despite its aggressive appearance, the Camry TRD delivered on performance, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a sporty sedan.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three models with distinct powertrains. The ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 8.6 seconds. The ES 350, with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivered 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The ES 300h hybrid combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a net 215 hp, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 seconds. While the ES 250 AWD provided all-wheel drive, its performance was less impressive compared to the V6-powered ES 350. The hybrid ES 300h excelled in fuel economy, making it an attractive option for efficiency-minded buyers.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with Sport transmission and driving modes enhancing its performance. The Camry TRD's track-tuned dynamics included stiffer suspension, larger brakes, and sport dual exhaust, delivering a thrilling driving experience. Despite its sporty nature, the Camry TRD maintained a comfortable ride, with excellent brake pedal feel and minimal fade during spirited driving. However, the lack of all-wheel drive limited its traction, especially in challenging conditions. Overall, the Camry TRD offered remarkable performance for its price, appealing to those seeking a sporty and engaging driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered a spacious and practical interior, with 394 litres of cargo space in the trunk. The ES 250 and ES 350 featured a pass-through behind the centre armrest and fold-flat rear seats, enhancing cargo versatility. Inside, the ES boasted heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and available semi-aniline leather upholstery. A moonroof was standard, with a panoramic sunroof available. The ES's interior layout was functional, with ample storage and convenience features, though the dashboard design was less visually appealing.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, while sporty, had a less spacious interior compared to some midsize sedans. The fixed rear seatback limited cargo versatility, with a 428-litre trunk. However, the Camry offered generous in-cabin storage, with a large centre armrest bin and good stash space throughout. The front seats, though lacking additional bolstering, provided a comfortable and supportive driving position. Despite its sporty nature, the Camry TRD maintained a comfortable ride, making it suitable for daily driving.

The 2022 Lexus ES featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio, and navigation. The ES included a centre console touchpad interface, which was an improvement over previous setups but still challenging to use on rough roads. Available features included a 10-inch head-up display and a Panoramic View Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist. Lexus Enform connected services provided various trial memberships, enhancing the ES's technology offerings.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Camry XSE and TRD models featured a 9-inch touchscreen with additional subscription plans and a JBL premium audio system. While the Camry lacked dynamic connected navigation, it offered Siri and Google Assistant integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other Camry models offered a 10-inch head-up display and a 360-degree surround-view monitoring system, though not available on the TRD.

The 2022 Lexus ES received top safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, including features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 10 airbags. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided up to 10 years of emergency services.

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+ was standard, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-centring assistance. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard on the Camry TRD and XSE. Safety Connect provided automatic collision notification and emergency assistance, with a complimentary trial period.