Toyota Camry vs Honda Accord

In the realm of automotive aesthetics, the 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly the TRD (Toyota Racing Development) model, stood out in a way that previous iterations did not. Unlike the often understated earlier versions, the 2022 Camry adopted a bolder and more commanding appearance. This drastic change garnered unexpected attention from a group of young men who pointed out our test vehicle, captivated by its striking Cavalry Blue paint. This specific shade was a novel addition for 2022 and was exclusive to the TRD variant.

The updates for the 2022 model year included standard heated side mirrors across all trims and standard dual-zone automatic climate control, except for the TRD. Toyota also introduced a new paint option called Ice Edge and offered the SE Hybrid trim level with a new Nightshade Edition package. This allowed for a sleek and blacked-out appearance. With 13 different versions to choose from, ranging in price from just over $26,000 for the base Camry LE to just under $37,000 for the upscale Camry XSE, buyers had numerous options. Engine choices included a four-cylinder, a V6, or a gas-electric hybrid powertrain capable of delivering over 50 miles per gallon in combined driving.

Our particular test car did not feature the hybrid powertrain. Instead, Toyota provided a Camry TRD equipped with an optional JBL premium sound system and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, bringing the MSRP to $35,470, including a $1,025 destination charge. The TRD variant was unmistakably distinctive, adorned with an aerodynamic body kit that featured a front splitter, side skirts, a pedestal-style rear spoiler, and a more aggressive rear diffuser panel. The car's visual appeal was further enhanced by matte-black 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and accent stripes, as well as polished stainless steel exhaust outlets. A gloss black grille with a mesh insert completed the assertive front look.

However, the dramatic design choices of the Camry TRD were somewhat polarizing. The interior, while less controversial, sported an unusual dashboard layout paired with a driver-oriented center console. Yet, the red gauge illumination clashed with the cabin's overall white and blue theme, and features like red floor mat embroidery and red seatbelts felt tacky. Ultimately, the TRD's bold styling effort seemed to overreach, even if the dynamic tuning added desirably to the driving experience.

Honda redesigned the 2023 Accord with a focus on modernity and sophistication. The redesign gave the car a more technical look, shedding most of the shiny chrome from its predecessor for a more subdued, contemporary appearance. The new Canyon River Blue paint received several compliments, and the EX trim featured a pewter wheel finish. There was a shared sentiment that the 2018-2022 Accord had a more pleasing design, yet the new model's conservative updates were widely acknowledged.

On the inside, the Accord EX boasted durable cloth seats with contrast stitching and metal mesh dashboard trim artfully integrating the air conditioning vents. The digital instrumentation, paired with a touchscreen infotainment system, highlighted Honda’s commitment to blending functionality with modern design. The Accord’s switchgear, from its digital display to its physical buttons, reflected Honda's attention to detail and refinement.

Overall, for the price and class, these trims offered a blend of durability and aesthetic appeal, signaling a shift from the more exuberant designs of previous generations.

Under the hood, the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD housed a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination allowed for a lively driving experience, especially when utilizing the Sport transmission mode and paddle shifters, which effectively quickened the car’s responsiveness. Additionally, a Sport driving mode adjusted throttle response and steering efforts, enhancing the overall driving dynamics.

EPA fuel economy ratings suggested the Camry TRD would achieve 25 mpg in combined driving. Despite spirited driving through a mountain range, the test car averaged 24.8 mpg, which exceeded expectations. This model also boasted track-tuned driving dynamics, with increased torsional rigidity thanks to thicker underbody braces, stiffer sway bars, tauter springs, and TRD shocks. Larger, more responsive brakes and a sport dual exhaust system enhanced the driving experience, while 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in summer performance tires ensured a stable grip on the road.

The Camry TRD exhibited remarkable speed, effortlessly outpacing slower vehicles while maintaining a pleasing exhaust note. Despite its front-wheel-drive configuration occasionally causing the front wheels to lose traction, the TRD model felt solid, secure, and well-planted. The structural bracing and TRD-tuned suspension made the car fun to drive on winding roads, and the suspension balanced communicative feedback without compromising on daily comfort.

Conversely, the 2023 Honda Accord LX and EX trims were powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 192 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 192 pound-feet of torque between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm. Although this engine was carried over from the previous generation, it featured refinements aimed at improving performance. Standard features included remote engine starting and an automatic start/stop system. The engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that powered the front wheels. During hard acceleration, the CVT mimicked traditional automatic transmission shifts, adding a sense of familiarity to the driving experience.

The Accord’s suspension system, featuring MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear, capably managed the vehicle's 59:41 front-to-rear weight distribution. The variable-ratio steering system offered good response and road feel, contributing to the Accord’s communicative and precise handling. EPA ratings projected that the Accord LX and EX would average 32 mpg in combined driving. However, during our test, the car returned 28.7 mpg due to triple-digit temperatures necessitating continuous air conditioning use, preventing the automatic stop/start system from functioning optimally.

In urban and suburban settings, the Accord was easy to maneuver, with excellent outward visibility and straightforward parking. The structure felt robust, and the suspension adequately filtered out road imperfections while maintaining a quiet cabin. On twisty roads, the Accord’s dynamic tuning inspired confidence. Despite some CVT droning under hard acceleration and less sophisticated systems compared to rivals, the 2023 Accord remained enjoyable to drive, particularly on winding coastal roads, thanks to its precise steering and effective ride damping.

The interior of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, while adorned with sporty red accents such as stripes, stitching, and embroidered TRD logos, did not feature any additional bolstering compared to a standard Camry SE. Surprisingly, this did not detract from comfort. The seats provided a low-slung, sporty driving position, and the combination of fabric seat inserts and a tall center console helped mitigate body roll during spirited driving.

The back seat, although not the most spacious in the midsize sedan segment, comfortably accommodated two adults. However, the TRD model sacrificed the 60/40-split folding rear seats found in other trims for enhanced rigidity, featuring a fixed rear seatback. This limited the car’s utility, leaving owners to rely on the 15.1 cubic-foot trunk, which was one of the smallest in its category. Despite this, the Camry compensated with ample in-cabin storage spaces, including a large bin under the center armrest.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX, on the other hand, added valuable features like a darker wheel finish, dual-zone climate control, and heated seats typically absent from the base LX trim. However, it did not include a height-adjustable front passenger seat, rear air conditioning vents, or rear USB charging ports, which many would find desirable. The driver’s seat with limited seat-track travel posed discomfort for taller drivers, and the hard plastic center console sides often caused inconvenience.

Despite these drawbacks, the back seat was well-received due to its supportive design and generous legroom. The high mounting provided excellent leg support, and the overall ease of entry and exit added to the comfort. The storage options were adequate, and the trunk was notably large at 16.7 cubic feet, offering a user-friendly design that facilitated easy loading of full-size suitcases. The automatic swing-up trunk lid and convenient handle prevented dirtying one’s hands, contributing positively to the vehicle’s practicality.

In terms of technology, the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD was equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, considered small by modern standards. However, it featured tactile volume and tuning knobs that offered a nostalgic touch, complemented by shortcut buttons for user-friendly operation. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. It also provided Safety Connect and WiFi Connect subscription services, with complimentary trial periods for all subscription-based features.

As an upgrade, buyers could opt for a 9-inch touchscreen with additional subscription services and a 9-speaker JBL premium audio system, which delivered decent sound quality despite being bass-heavy. Toyota, however, did not offer dynamic connected navigation and voice recognition technology for the Camry TRD, pushing users to rely on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation needs.

The 2023 Honda Accord LX and EX, meanwhile, came standard with a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Although not large, these screens were functional and sufficient for the car’s tech needs. The infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, text messaging support, and HondaLink connected services with Wi-Fi access and an SOS emergency button.

The EX trim also featured an 8-speaker audio system, though it lacked SiriusXM satellite radio. Streaming via Apple CarPlay was seamless, though limited in areas with poor cell service. The physical controls for the stereo and main functions were well-placed, although the function knob masquerading as a tuning knob was confusing. Overall, the Accord EX’s tech was basic and reliable, providing a straightforward and pleasant user experience.

Safety features for the 2022 Toyota Camry included the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ package. This suite, standard across all trims, encompassed adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Camry TRD also came standard with a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert, optional for LE and SE trims.

However, the Camry’s lane-departure warning system occasionally issued false alerts, and the lane-centering assistance could be overly persistent. The adaptive cruise control's tendency to reduce speed unnecessarily in curves added to minor frustrations. Safety Connect, offering automatic collision notification, emergency assistance, roadside help, and stolen vehicle locator, was free for the first year but required a subscription thereafter. The Camry earned top safety ratings, including a "Top Safety Pick+" accolade from IIHS and five-star ratings from NHTSA across the board.

The 2023 Honda Accord also featured a robust safety suite, known as Honda Sensing. This included adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. Additional features were a reversing camera, automatic high-beam headlights, traffic sign recognition, and driver monitoring. The EX trim offered an affordable package adding blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which was highly recommended.

Honda Sensing generally performed accurately and smoothly, though minor issues like the subtle lane-departure warning and occasional lane-centering wavers were noted. The adaptive cruise control's navigation-based speed reductions were mild and preferable to harsher systems. The Accord’s safety graphics communicated status effectively, enhancing the user experience. The 2023 Accord earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, reinforcing its credentials as a reliable and safe vehicle.