2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in its TRD variant, made a surprising visual impact, drawing attention from onlookers, which was unusual for a Camry. This was largely due to the striking Cavalry Blue paint exclusive to the TRD model. The Camry's design updates for 2022 included standard heated side mirrors across all trims and a new Nightshade Edition package for the SE Hybrid trim, which added a sleek, blacked-out aesthetic. With 13 different versions available, the Camry offered a range of choices, from the base LE to the upscale XSE V6, with various engine options including a fuel-efficient hybrid. The TRD model stood out with its aerodynamic body kit, matte-black wheels, and red accents, though its bold styling was not universally appealing. Inside, the Camry TRD featured a driver-oriented design, but some elements, like the red gauge illumination, were less well-received.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a variety of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon, showcasing its versatility. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. The AMG E53 models, including the Cabriolet we tested, delivered a luxurious experience with high-end materials and a powerful engine. The E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-blue paint and AMG styling, exuded elegance and performance. Inside, the E-Class impressed with its digital displays, premium leather, and advanced features like the Burmester audio system. The E53 Cabriolet was designed for both leisurely drives and spirited performance, offering a blend of comfort and excitement.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD was equipped with a robust 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, the Camry TRD offered a Sport transmission mode and paddle shifters for an engaging driving experience. Despite its sporty nature, the Camry TRD achieved a commendable fuel consumption rating of 9.4 L/100 km in combined driving, with our test averaging 9.5 L/100 km. The TRD model featured track-tuned dynamics, with enhanced torsional rigidity, stiffer suspension, and larger brakes, providing a solid and planted feel on the road. While the front-wheel-drive setup occasionally led to wheel spin, the Camry TRD delivered impressive performance for its price, with a compliant ride and excellent brake modulation.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet, on the other hand, boasted a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost technology, generating 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, showcasing its performance capabilities. The AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowed for a tailored driving experience, while the AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced both comfort and excitement. The E53 Cabriolet excelled in providing a dual personality, offering a quiet and comfortable ride for leisurely drives and a thrilling performance for spirited driving.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured front seats with red accents and TRD logos, though they lacked additional bolstering compared to the standard Camry SE. Despite this, the sporty driving position and supportive fabric seat inserts provided comfort and stability during spirited driving. The Camry's rear seat accommodated two adults comfortably, though the TRD model sacrificed the 60/40-split folding back seat for improved structural rigidity, resulting in a fixed rear seatback. The trunk offered 428 litres of cargo space, which was smaller than some competitors, but the Camry compensated with generous in-cabin storage options.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfort for both front and rear occupants. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, while heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Airscarf neck-warming system ensured comfort in cooler weather. The E53 Cabriolet's trunk provided 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, though this was reduced when the top was down. The interior featured multi-contour front seats with massage functions and an Air Balance fragrance system, enhancing the luxury experience.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The TRD model upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen with additional subscription services and a JBL premium audio system. While the Camry lacked dynamic connected navigation, it offered a user-friendly interface with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in technology with its MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens for the touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The system offered multiple interaction methods, including voice commands, touch controls, and steering wheel buttons. MBUX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced features like augmented reality navigation and a head-up display. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided exceptional sound quality, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2022 Toyota Camry was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assist and collision avoidance features. Highlights included adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and blind-spot monitoring. The Camry received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The E-Class Cabriolet included pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Additional safety features were available in the Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The E-Class provided a robust safety suite, enhancing driver confidence.