2023 Acura TLX vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in its TRD variant, stood out with its striking Cavalry Blue paint, a new addition exclusive to this performance-tuned model. This eye-catching hue, combined with the aerodynamic body kit and sporty design elements like matte-black 19-inch wheels and red accents, made the Camry TRD a head-turner. Despite its bold exterior, the Camry's design was somewhat polarizing, with some finding the styling overly aggressive. Inside, the Camry TRD featured a driver-oriented centre console and an unusual dashboard layout, though the red gauge illumination and accents were considered tacky by some.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura TLX, especially the Type S model, was a rarity on the road due to supply chain constraints and Acura's strategy of not flooding rental fleets. The TLX's design was based on a concept vehicle, giving it a long, low, and lean appearance with a rear-wheel-drive look. While the dramatic styling compromised rear-seat space and cargo capacity, it was visually appealing. Inside, the TLX featured a layered dashboard design emphasizing width, though the control layout required some relearning. The Type S model's interior, with its premium materials and sporty elements, was well-received, though rear-seat comfort was lacking.

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. It featured a Sport transmission mode and paddle shifters, enhancing its dynamic capabilities. The Camry TRD's fuel consumption was rated at 9.4 L/100 km in combined driving, and during testing, it averaged 9.5 L/100 km. The TRD model boasted track-tuned driving dynamics, with increased torsional rigidity, stiffer suspension, and larger brakes, providing a solid and secure driving experience. However, the lack of all-wheel drive was noted as a drawback.

The 2023 Acura TLX offered a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard SH-AWD in Canada. The TLX's fuel economy was rated at 9.8 L/100 km combined. The Type S model featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, along with performance enhancements like adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes. The TLX Type S was praised for its driving dynamics, though the brake-by-wire system was a point of contention. Despite this, the TLX Type S delivered an engaging driving experience with its powerful engine and agile handling.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD's interior featured sporty elements like red accent stripes and TRD logos, though the front seats lacked additional bolstering. The Camry offered a low-slung driving position and comfortable front seats with power height adjustment. While the back seat accommodated two adults comfortably, the TRD model's fixed rear seatback limited cargo flexibility. The trunk offered 428 litres of space, smaller than some competitors, but the Camry compensated with generous in-cabin storage.

The 2023 Acura TLX Type S featured a premium interior with Milano leather and artificial suede inserts, though the low-contrast red gauge markings were challenging to read. The front seats were 16-way power-adjustable with heating and ventilation, providing excellent comfort. However, the rear seat was cramped, with narrow doors and limited legroom. The TLX's trunk offered 382 litres of cargo space, more akin to a compact car, but a flat floor and enclosed hinges maximized usability.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The TRD model featured a 9-inch display with additional subscription services and a JBL premium audio system. While the sound quality was bass-heavy, it was decent for the price. The Camry lacked dynamic connected navigation, but smartphone integration provided a satisfactory alternative.

The 2023 Acura TLX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system was a source of frustration, with a 10.2-inch display controlled by a touchpad and buttons. The system's design proved distracting, and the TTI occupied valuable console space. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system. While the sound quality was excellent, the lack of wireless smartphone integration was a drawback.

The 2022 Toyota Camry featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Camry TRD and XSE models came with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. While the lane-departure warning system occasionally issued false alerts, the Camry received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Acura TLX included a comprehensive suite of driver aids, such as forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Type S model added rain-sensing wipers and a surround-view camera. The TLX's safety systems generally performed well, though the lane-keeping systems struggled in certain conditions. The TLX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.