2022 Toyota Camry vs 2022 Acura TLX

In the past, the 2022 Toyota Camry stood out visually due to its eye-catching Cavalry Blue paint, exclusive to the performance-tuned TRD model. This vibrant paint, along with an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and numerous other sporty elements, made it impossible to mistake the TRD for any other Camry variant. However, the TRD’s dramatic styling could be polarizing, trying too hard to distance itself from the “boring Camry” stereotype of yore. The interior kept the excitement going with an unusual dashboard layout and a driver-oriented center console, although the red accents were considered tacky. Despite its looks, the Camry’s design was an acquired taste, drawing mixed reactions from enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

The 2022 Acura TLX, by contrast, exhibited a broad and imposing luxury sedan presence, boasting a wider and longer stance than competitors like the BMW 3 Series. Thin headlights and a five-sided grille added to its assertive front-end design, while details such as large dual exhaust outlets and polished black spoilers screamed sophistication. The Type S variant, especially in Performance Red Pearl, gleamed with character-defining elements like Y-spoke gray wheels, bright red brake calipers, and open front air intakes for additional cooling. Inside, the TLX was snug despite its large exterior, featuring high-quality materials and impressive detailing. The cabin offered a mix of suede inserts, metal shift paddles, and a Scandinavian-inspired lighting scheme.

Performance-wise, the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD packed a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It had an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Offering specs like thicker underbody braces, stiffer sway bars, and enhanced shocks, the Camry TRD was distance from its mundane predecessors. Despite delivering good fuel economy for a performance model, the lack of all-wheel drive (AWD) available on other Camry models felt like a missed opportunity. Nonetheless, the Camry TRD firmly gripped the road thanks to performance rubber and tuned suspension, providing communicative yet comfortable driving dynamics.

On the Acura side, the TLX was potent across trims, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it had the option of Acura’s Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhancing stability and cornering precision. The TLX’s Type S variant took the game up several notches with a 3.0-liter turbo V6 churning 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Its double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers ensured consistent grip and balanced cornering. Despite excellent braking and minimal turbo lag, the exhaust note felt subdued compared to the athletic performance it offered.

In terms of interior functionality, the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD’s front seats didn’t offer extra bolstering but provided a comfortable sporty driving position, thanks to power height adjustments and firm fabric inserts. The rear seat space was adequate for two adults, though it lacked air vents and had a fixed seatback, limiting cargo flexibility. Compromised structural rigidity resulted in a smaller trunk space, offering just 15.1 cubic feet, nearly on par with a smaller Honda Civic.

Conversely, the 2022 Acura TLX, despite its larger exterior, felt tight for four occupants inside. The back seat had decent headroom but suffered in legroom, with its wheelbase only slightly longer than the BMW 3 Series. The front seats, however, were designed for comfort, featuring a thigh extension, adjustable side bolsters, and a driver-centric layout. While the TLX’s trunk space was even more limited than the Camry, at just 13.5 cubic feet, part of this limitation came from its advanced double-wishbone suspension, which took up more space.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was small but functional. It supported key features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and various subscription services. An upgrade to a 9-inch display with a premium JBL audio system was available, though lacking advanced navigation and voice recognition.

The 2022 Acura TLX, however, had a more advanced yet somewhat complicated infotainment interface. Its touchpad required acclimation but was quick once mastered. The TLX offered an ELS Studio audio system with 17 speakers in higher trims and a variety of convenient features standard, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 12-way heated front seats. Some features, like the head-up display and 360-degree cameras, were restricted to the Advance Package, not available in the sportier Type S.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, providing adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and various collision avoidance features. While the lane-departure warnings could sometimes be overzealous, the Camry scored exceptionally well in safety ratings, receiving "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and five-star ratings from NHTSA.

Similarly, the 2022 Acura TLX earned top safety accolades, being rated a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS and receiving a five-star rating from NHTSA. Standard features included knee airbags, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Additional safety technologies were layered in higher trims through the Technology Package.