2021 Lexus ES vs 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the introduction of the ES 250 series, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, priced similarly to the ES 350 with a 3.5-liter V6 and front-wheel drive. The ES 250 and ES 350 were available in Standard, F Sport, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims. Additionally, the ES 300h hybrid variant offered improved fuel economy at a premium. The ES lineup included standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, except for the base trim. A limited-production Black Line Special Edition of the ES 350 debuted, featuring unique styling elements and a matching luggage set. The ES's design, with its dramatic grille and sleek lines, was complemented by the F Sport trim's sporty enhancements, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and sportiness.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid, a staple in Toyota's lineup, continued to impress with its futuristic and expressive design. The Camry Hybrid's exterior featured a bold front end and a range of wheel options, while the interior boasted a dynamic dashboard and ample storage. The second row offered generous space and comfort, making it a practical choice for families. Toyota's attention to fit and finish was evident in the Camry Hybrid's high-quality materials and precise construction. The Camry Hybrid's design and functionality made it a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and stylish midsize sedan.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. It offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg combined. During testing, it averaged 22.9 mpg. The ES 350 F Sport provided a surprisingly engaging driving experience, with a firm ride and flat cornering stance, though it was not a true sports sedan.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors, delivering a total system output of 208 horsepower. An electronically controlled CVT sent power to the front wheels, with paddle shifters available on SE and XSE models. The Camry Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, with the LE model achieving 51 mpg city/53 mpg highway/52 mpg combined, while other trims achieved 44 mpg city/47 mpg highway/46 mpg combined. The hybrid's handling benefited from a lower center of gravity, providing a more engaging driving experience compared to the gasoline-only Camry. However, maintaining EV mode was challenging, and some drivetrain noise was noted.

The 2021 Lexus ES offered a daring interior layout with sport-bolstered front seats featuring 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The NuLuxe synthetic leather provided a premium feel, and the rear seats offered ample legroom and comfort. The ES's trunk measured 13.9 cubic feet, with a hands-free power trunk option. Storage was plentiful but oddly configured, with various nooks and crannies.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid provided a comfortable and versatile driving position, with ample headroom and storage options. The second row was spacious and easy to access, with generous bottle holders and map pockets. The Camry Hybrid's trunk offered 15.1 cubic feet of space, with a passthrough for long items and foldable rear seats for larger cargo. Toyota's warranty coverage included a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 10-year/100,000-mile hybrid battery warranty.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a touchpad interface that required attention to operate, but it offered separate climate and stereo controls. The ES included a dynamic voice command system, a 12.3-inch widescreen display, and a 10-speaker premium sound system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid came equipped with Toyota's latest technology, including a premium JBL audio system with nine speakers. Embedded navigation was available on higher trims, while Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard. The Camry Hybrid featured a 7-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 9-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Additional features included a smart key system, push-button start, and a 10-inch head-up display on XSE models.

The 2021 Lexus ES included Lexus Safety System 2.0, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all but the base trim. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. The Camry Hybrid also included 10 airbags, a blind-spot monitor, and a rear seat reminder. The 2021 model received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.