2024 Lexus ES vs. Toyota Camry

In the world of midsize sedans, the Lexus ES and Toyota Camry reign supreme. For over 15 years, the ES, a midsize executive car known for its refined elegance, has been a cornerstone of the Lexus sedan lineup in the U.S. The Camry, on the other hand, has dominated the American midsize sedan market for over two decades, offering drivers a blend of reliability and affordability. While they share some basic parts, these vehicles are made for different tastes and wallets. Let’s compare these two sedans to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of the Lexus ES

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This luxury vehicle stands out with its premium offering and strong performance. The ES 350 model packs a punch with a 302 hp V-6 engine, making highway drives a breeze. If you need extra traction, you can get all-wheel drive (AWD) with the ES 250 AWD.  The interior is luxurious, with upper trims featuring stunning quilted semi-aniline leather seats. At the heart of it all sits the Lexus Interface system. It comes with either an 8-inch or a massive 12.3-inch touch screen. Safety is key, with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 offering advanced driver aids.

Additionally, F SPORT models come with sporty suspensions and unique designs. This luxury vehicle ups the ante with optional amenities such as a head-up display, a hands-free power trunk, and adaptive variable suspension. Advanced engineering ensures a remarkably quiet cabin, and an optional panorama glass roof provides plenty of natural light. For music lovers, the available Mark Levinson premium audio system turns the interior into a concert hall. It’s a mix of comfort, tech, and thrills that sets the ES apart.

Cons of the Lexus ES

The Lexus ES has a few drawbacks. It’s pricier than a Toyota Camry, with a starting MSRP of $42,040. Along with that, long-term maintenance can be costly. Nonhybrid models such as the ES 350 get only 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on highways, which isn’t great for its class.

Additionally, its plush ride might feel less responsive, and the large size makes it hard to maneuver in tight spaces, with a 38-foot turning radius. The design might also seem bland to some. The limited number of Lexus service centers could also be a bit inconvenient. Plus, the trunk comes in at only 13.9 cubic feet, with no fold-down rear seats for extra cargo space.

Pros of the Toyota Camry

This midsize sedan shines in its market. At a starting MSRP of $26,420, it’s a budget-friendly pick for those who want quality. Many of these vehicles keep running past 100,000 miles, showing how long they last. With the LE hybrid achieving an impressive 51 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway, this car stands out for its exceptional fuel efficiency.

The interior is spacious, with an easy-to-use 7-inch or optional 9-inch screen for music and maps. Every model comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which helps keep you safe on the road. If you want a more enjoyable drive, try the SE or XSE versions, which handle better but still give you a smooth ride.

The 2024 Toyota Camry is more budget-friendly than the Lexus ES, with low maintenance costs and a strong resale value. The 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space, foldable rear seats, and widespread service centers make it a practical choice for daily commutes and long trips.

Cons of the Toyota Camry

While a solid pick in its group, the Toyota Camry can’t match the sophistication of vehicles such as the Lexus ES and lacks the high-end feel that many want. Speed fans might think the standard four-cylinder engine is weak, taking 7.5 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph. The V-6 choice, with 301 hp, is just behind the Lexus ES 350’s 302 hp engine.

By focusing on utility, the Camry skips some new tech features found in more expensive cars. While its ride quality and noise insulation are adequate for its class, they don’t match the refinement of luxury vehicles.

You can’t get AWD with the V-6 models, which might upset those who want more grip with more power. This sedan also falls behind in new driver-assistance features. Toyota is known for making cars that last, but its name doesn’t sound as prestigious as Lexus. For drivers concerned with status, this might be a significant drawback.

Key Differences Between the Lexus ES and Toyota Camry

While the Lexus ES and Toyota Camry share similarities, they cater to different driver preferences, with the ES 350’s robust 302 hp V-6 engine slightly outperforming the Camry’s top V-6 option. The ES 250 AWD matches the standard four-cylinder output at 203 hp but adds the perk of an AWD grip.

The ES offers a smoother, quieter ride for comfort. But the Camry wins in gas savings for nonhybrid types. Toyota’s big dealer network, about five times the size of Lexus’s, gives owners more maintenance options. This practical advantage can’t be ignored. Let’s understand the differences better with this cohesive rundown.

Picking between these two models comes down to what you value most. The Lexus ES luxury sedan gives a more sophisticated ride with a prestigious name, while the mainstream Camry brings great value and trust in a solid package.

Contact Eskridge Lexus in Oklahoma City

Discover automotive excellence at Eskridge Lexus, featuring impressive Lexus sedans such as the ES 250 AWD, the powerful ES 350, and the exclusive Black Line Special Edition. Our dedicated team is here to help you find your perfect match. Enjoy peace of mind with our convenient loaner program and custom financing plans. Explore our certified pre-owned vehicles, all backed by comprehensive Lexus warranties. Ready to experience luxury? Book a test drive today and explore our latest inventory for refined rides and exceptional offers.