2022 Toyota Camry vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in its TRD variant, made a striking impression with its bold Cavalry Blue paint, a new addition for the year. This eye-catching hue, exclusive to the performance-tuned TRD model, drew unexpected attention from onlookers, a rarity for the typically understated Camry. The TRD's aggressive styling, featuring an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, and red accents, set it apart from other Camry versions. Despite its polarizing exterior, the Camry's interior offered a unique dashboard layout and driver-focused centre console, though the red gauge illumination and accents were considered a design misstep.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX presented a more refined and substantial appearance, reminiscent of a larger luxury sedan. Its wide stance and sleek design elements, such as thin headlights and a five-sided grille, contributed to its commanding presence. The TLX Type S added exclusive features like Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the TLX offered a snug yet comfortable cabin, with impressive detailing and a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic. The infotainment system, while innovative, required some acclimation due to its unique touchpad interface.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD was equipped with a robust 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, the Camry TRD offered a spirited driving experience, enhanced by a Sport mode and paddle shifters. Its track-tuned dynamics, including stiffer suspension and larger brakes, provided a solid and engaging ride. Despite its performance focus, the Camry TRD maintained a reasonable fuel consumption of 9.5 L/100 km in combined driving, slightly above the expected 9.4 L/100 km.

The 2022 Acura TLX, particularly in its Type S variant, showcased impressive performance credentials. The standard 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produced 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, while the Type S boasted a 3.0-litre turbo V6 with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Acura's Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, standard in Canada, enhanced stability and handling precision. The TLX's double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers contributed to its balanced and predictable performance, making it a capable track performer. Fuel efficiency for the Type S was moderate, with a combined rating of 11.2 L/100 km.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD offered a sporty driving position with comfortable front seats, though lacking additional bolstering. The rear seat accommodated two adults comfortably, but the fixed rear seatback limited cargo flexibility. The trunk space was modest at 428 litres, but the Camry compensated with ample in-cabin storage, including a large centre armrest bin.

The 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, provided a tight interior space for four passengers. The back seat offered decent headroom but limited legroom. The front seats, especially in the Type S, featured adjustable bolsters and a low driving position. The TLX's trunk space was limited to 382 litres, constrained by the double-wishbone suspension. The infotainment system's touchpad interface required adjustment, but the climate control and other features were straightforward.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. Higher trims, like the TRD, featured a 9-inch display with additional subscription services and a JBL premium audio system. While lacking dynamic navigation, the Camry's system allowed for voice control via smartphone integration.

The 2022 Acura TLX featured a simple yet quick infotainment interface, though some typefaces were small. The TLX offered a head-up display on the Platinum Elite trim, while the ELS Studio audio system was available on higher trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver assistance technologies. The TLX also offered advanced climate control linked to navigation and standard "Jewel Eye" LED headlights.

The 2022 Toyota Camry was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and more. It received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Safety Connect provided additional emergency services, though some features required a subscription after the first year.

The 2022 Acura TLX also earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall score from the NHTSA. It featured standard knee airbags, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors, enhancing its safety credentials.