2022 Toyota Camry vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

From a sheer visual perspective, the 2022 Toyota Camry made quite an impression. The exclusive Cavalry Blue paint on the TRD model drew the attention of passersby in an unprecedented manner. This bold color was new for the 2022 model year, contributing significantly to the car’s eye-catching appeal. We noted that this hue, along with other updates like standard heated side mirrors and dual-zone automatic climate control for all trims (excluding the TRD), added to its attractive package. For those seeking a darker aesthetic, the Nightshade Edition package for the SE Hybrid did a commendable job in blacking out the car’s exterior trim and wheels.

The Camry offered a diverse selection of 13 different versions, starting from an affordable $26,000 for the base LE to nearly $37,000 for the sophisticated XSE. Our focus was the performance-tuned TRD model, priced at $35,470, inclusive of a destination charge. This model stood out with its aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and accent stripes.

It’s worth mentioning that the Camry’s current design, dating back to 2018, was a bold departure from the bland aesthetics of its predecessors. The interior, though less divisive, had a driver-oriented layout. However, the TRD’s red gauge illumination and accents felt excessive and not in line with the rest of the cabin’s theme. While the dramatic styling was a standout feature, it sometimes felt like the Camry TRD was trying too hard to prove a point.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, on the other hand, maintained its fantastic appearance with continuity from the previous year’s remodel. While some argued the sedan era was over, the S-Class made a compelling counter-argument with its sleek design.

The S-Class owed its elegance partly to the significant distance between the front axle and the dashboard, a detail that added to its sophisticated profile. Future aesthetics seemed achievable as the S-Class offered a balanced mix of tradition and modernity with its Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament.

The interior of the S-Class delighted with its luxurious touches, like a flowing dashboard embedded with open-pore wood trim and a commanding 12.8-inch touchscreen. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel stood alone, reinforcing its important role without merging with the infotainment screen. The materials used throughout the cabin reflected Mercedes’ dedication to quality and meticulous assembly, ensuring a plush and serene environment for occupants.

Under the hood of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD was a 3.5-liter V6 engine pumping out 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD). While a Sport transmission mode and paddle shifters enhanced the car’s agility, the Sport driving mode adjusted throttle responses and steering efforts. The Camry TRD managed 25 mpg in combined driving per EPA ratings, but during our vigorous tests, it averaged 24.8 mpg—a commendable figure.

Toyota’s TRD model promised “track-tuned” dynamics, bolstered by thicker underbody braces, stiffer sway bars, and TRD shocks. The car’s enhanced brakes, dual sport exhaust system, and 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in performance tires added to its spirited character.

This wasn't the run-of-the-mill Camry. The V6 and eight-speed transmission ensured swift acceleration, with the TRD feeling solid and sure-footed around corners, thanks to its lower center of gravity and structural bracing. Despite the lack of all-wheel drive (AWD), the performance was exhilarating, though controlling power in turns sometimes posed a challenge.

Conversely, our 2022 Mercedes-Benz S500 test vehicle boasted a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost, elevating the gas engine with an electric motor. The system added up to 21 extra horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, adding to the engine’s robust 429 hp and 384 lb-ft torque. The S580 variant used a larger twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8.

Both the S500 and S580 featured a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their hefty weights of 4,740 and 4,775 pounds, respectively, both models delivered swift accelerations—0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds for the S500 and 4.4 seconds for the S580. Regardless of their mass, handling was exemplary, predictable, and braking was assertive.

In addition to power, the S-Class delivered an enjoyable drive, fitting for both commuting and leisure. The S500 achieved 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway/24 mpg combined, while the S580 offered 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway/19 mpg combined.

The 2022 Camry TRD's interior emphasized a sporty vibe with red accents but lacked significant seat bolstering. The low, sporty driving position, tall center console, and minimal body roll during maneuvers added to its comfort. The front seats featured power height adjustment, ensuring long-term comfort.

Space-wise, the Camry wasn’t segment-leading, but it accommodated two adults comfortably in the back. However, the TRD model lacked rear-seat air vents and a 60/40-split folding back seat, resulting in a fixed rear seatback. Cargo space was limited to 15.1 cubic feet, slightly more than the Honda Civic but less than class competitors.

Fortunately, Toyota compensated with ample in-cabin storage, including a sizable bin under the center armrest and other compartments.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class had to uphold standards of an executive sedan, and it delivered. Passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, a spacious 13.8-cubic-foot trunk, and six USB-C ports with additional power supplies.

Front-seat occupants benefited from multicontour seats with heating, ventilation, massage functions, and other adjustments making long drives comfortable. The Luxury Line added further amenities like heated steering wheel, armrests, and rear seats. The Executive Line took it up a notch with enhanced rear-seat accommodations, suitable for chauffeured passengers.

Despite certain luxuries like doors that might be hard to reach due to their wide opening, the S-Class ensured ultimate comfort and convenience for all aboard.

In terms of technology, the Camry TRD featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which, although smaller by today’s standards, included helpful physical buttons and knobs. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with subscription services like Safety Connect and WiFi Connect available.

An optional upgrade was a 9-inch touchscreen with added subscription plans and a JBL premium audio system. However, the sound quality was sometimes too bass-heavy. Notably, Toyota did not include its connected navigation and voice recognition tech in the TRD, advocating for smartphone connectivity instead.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class flaunted cutting-edge technology with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen, delivering exceptional image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel added further depth and clarity, with an optional 3D cluster enhancing visual appeal.

The S-Class’ augmented video for navigation provided clear directional guidance, and the available augmented HUD projected information directly onto the windshield, akin to advanced fighter jet displays. The Burmester 3D Surround sound system ensured a first-rate audio experience, upgradable to a 4D Surround system integrated into headrests.

Technological prowess extended to the powertrain and chassis. The EQ Boost system and optional rear-axle steering significantly improved maneuverability, reducing the turning radius for a large sedan.

Regarding safety, the 2022 Toyota Camry included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which had adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance among other aids. The blind-spot monitoring system was standard on the TRD, but optional for lower trims. Safety Connect offered additional response measures like collision detection and roadside assistance. The Camry earned top ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, affirming its safety credentials.

Mercedes-Benz equipped the S-Class with an extensive array of safety features, including the Magic Vision Control system, ensuring effective windshield cleaning. Driver assists were comprehensive with active distance, steering, and brake assistance, along with Pre-Safe technologies preparing the vehicle for imminent collisions. Rear-passenger airbags and seatbelt enhancements were optional.