Is the 2023 Lexus ES 350 F Sport Just a Fancy Toyota Camry TRD?
If you’re searching for a comfortable sedan, the 2023 Toyota Camry is a great choice. It has plenty of different trim levels, is reasonably priced, and provides plenty of comfort. Also, the Camry TRD is the way to go if you want a sportier ride. It has a potent V6 engine and a sport suspension.
But do you know what else has a V6 engine and a sporty suspension? The 2023 Lexus ES 350 F Sport that we’re driving. This made us wonder – is the Lexus ES 350 F Sport just a fancier version of the Camry TRD?
The 2023 Toyota Camry TRD and the 2023 Lexus ES 350 look similar under their hoods
Although the 2023 Toyota Camry TRD and 2023 Lexus ES 350 look vastly different on the outside, they look similar when you lift up their hoods. When doing so, you’ll see that both of them are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. Actually, the Lexus has 302 hp, but does that really make a difference?
We think not. As such, the engines are identical, which means they also have similar fuel economy numbers. According to the EPA, both cars can achieve up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. So, they’re the same under the hood, but what about the rest of the cars?
The Lexus ES is not based on the Camry, despite having similar measurements
Interestingly, both the Toyota Camry and the Lexus ES are similarly sized. The Camry measures 194 inches long, 56.3 inches tall, and 73.1 inches wide. The Lexus ES measures 195.5 inches long, 56.9 inches tall, and 73.4 inches wide. Considering the size similarities between the two, you would think that the ES is based on the Camry. It’s not.
The Lexus ES is actually based on the outgoing, full-size Toyota Avalon. But it’s sized like the Camry. Interesting, right?
The similarities between the Lexus and Toyota never end
Sit inside either of these cars, and you’ll notice more similarities. Both cars come with a touchscreen navigation system – the Lexus unit is 8 inches (can be upgraded to 12.3 inches), and the Camry’s unit is 7 inches wide. Both cars have a premium audio system, a sport suspension, and a leather interior. However, some conveniences like heated/ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a wireless car charger can only be found in the Lexus.
Is the 2023 Lexus ES 350 worth the extra money over the Camry TRD?
The 2023 Toyota Camry TRD has a starting price of $33,285, and the 2023 Lexus ES 350 F Sport starts at $47,175, which is a difference of $13,890. Is the Lexus worth the extra cash? In our experience, not really.
Don’t get us wrong, the Lexus ES is an exceptional car, but considering both cars drive similarly, are the same size, and have similar features, the Camry TRD is the more economical choice. But if you really want the premium materials and premium badge up front, the Lexus is the way to go. That said, the Lexus ES is really a fancier version of the Camry TRD.
