Toyota Camry vs Toyota Crown

The 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in its TRD variant, made an unexpected splash with its striking Cavalry Blue paint, a new addition exclusive to this performance-tuned model. This bold colour choice caught the attention of onlookers, a rarity for the typically understated Camry. The TRD model also featured an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, and red accents, which collectively gave it a sporty and aggressive appearance. Despite its eye-catching exterior, the Camry's design was polarizing, with some finding the styling overly dramatic. Inside, the Camry TRD offered a unique dashboard layout and driver-focused centre console, though the red gauge illumination and accents were considered tacky by some.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Crown presented a more universally appealing design with its elevated ride height and distinctive front grille. The Crown's styling was reminiscent of crossovers, offering a blend of sedan elegance and SUV presence. Its front end featured a massive grille with angular wraparound headlights, while the side profile was accentuated by large wheels and a black trim piece. The rear was rounded with a bold taillight strip, and the Platinum trim offered a two-tone colour option. Inside, the Crown boasted a modern cabin with a digital instrument panel and a large touchscreen, though some elements like the 1980s-era LED displays detracted from the futuristic ambiance.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD was powered by a robust 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with Sport transmission and driving modes enhancing its performance. The Camry TRD's fuel consumption was rated at 9.4 L/100 km in combined driving, and it achieved 9.5 L/100 km during testing. The TRD model boasted track-tuned dynamics, with increased torsional rigidity, reworked suspension, and larger brakes. Despite its sporty nature, the Camry TRD lacked all-wheel drive, which was available on other Camry models.

The 2023 Toyota Crown offered two hybrid powertrains: a base 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid with 236 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.4-litre Hybrid Max with 340 horsepower. The base hybrid used a CVT, while the Hybrid Max had a six-speed automatic transmission. The Crown's base hybrid accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 7.8 seconds, while the Hybrid Max achieved it in 5.9 seconds. The Crown's ride quality prioritized comfort, with the Platinum trim adding an adaptive suspension. However, the Crown's performance was hindered by engine drone and some intrusive electronic driver aids.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured front seats with red accents and power height adjustment, providing a sporty driving position. While not the roomiest midsize sedan, the Camry accommodated two adults comfortably in the back seat. However, the TRD model lacked rear-seat air vents and a folding rear seatback, limiting cargo flexibility. The trunk offered 428 litres of space, smaller than some competitors, but in-cabin storage was generous.

The 2023 Toyota Crown's interior varied by trim, with the base XLE offering fabric and SofTex upholstery, while the Platinum trim featured full leather. The front seats were comfortable for long trips, though firm cushioning could cause discomfort over time. The Crown's elevated ride height provided a better view of the road, and the rear seats offered ample legroom and headroom. The trunk had a capacity of 360 litres, smaller than expected for a large sedan, but the wide opening and remote seatback releases added convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The TRD model upgraded to a 9-inch display with additional subscription services and a JBL premium audio system. However, the Camry TRD lacked dynamic connected navigation and voice recognition technology.

The 2023 Toyota Crown featured a standard 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen with sharp graphics and quick responses. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad. The Crown's infotainment system supported over-the-air updates and a new voice-recognition system. The Platinum trim offered a digital key feature, allowing smartphone access to the vehicle.

The 2022 Toyota Camry was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and blind-spot monitoring. It received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. However, some driver aids were prone to false warnings and intrusive behaviour.

The 2023 Toyota Crown's safety features included collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Platinum trim added a semi-automated parking system. While some features were well-tuned, others were intrusive and could not be fully disabled in the pre-production model.