Toyota Camry vs Acura TLX: The used Acura makes the new Camry look boring

The mid-size sedan segment has become a sweet spot for those who value a decent amount of interior space, everyday usability, and excellent value without necessarily wanting to settle for yet another SUV. This is why vehicles like the Toyota Camry have proven to be so popular over the years. Sportier luxury models like the Acura TLX don’t enjoy the same sales volumes, but they are still a great choice for discerning auto enthusiasts, especially when they are bought as nearly new models.

While the Camry has long been the segment sales leader, the Honda Accord is the perfect alternative for drivers wanting a little more fun behind the wheel, and its more luxurious Acura TLX cousin is also pitched as the sportier option compared to the Lexus ES. Unfortunately, the TLX was discontinued in 2025 due to poor sales, but that does mean that used examples are now available for similar money to a new Camry.

That got us wondering whether this sporty luxury sedan was the better option, so we decided to match them up head-to-head to see which represents the smarter buy.

Toyota Camry

• Model Years: 2025 – Present
• Base MSRP: $29,300

The Toyota Camry was completely redesigned in 2025 with a strong focus on efficiency and the latest safety technologies. The sole all-hybrid powertrain delivers great fuel economy and both FWD and AWD layouts are on offer. The base LE is relatively basic but offers superb value, while the range-topping XSE and XLE trims are packed with features but push the value proposition to its limits.

However, even on the basic trims the infotainment system is sharp and responsive, while the optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and premium tech on pricier models is well integrated. The Camry has developed a reputation for having impressive reliability, low running costs and strong resale values, but it is not a very dynamically impressive vehicle, and the driving experience is best described as laid-back. The Lexus ES offers more luxury, and better performance, but for those wanting a bit more dynamic verve, the smooth and chilled ES isn’t the answer.

Acura TLX

• Model Years: 2021 – 2025
• Base MSRP: $45,400 (2025 Model Year)

The TLX lineup was Acura’s answer to Germany’s range of sporty sedans, but despite its slightly larger external dimensions compared to the Camry, it was actually a bit tighter inside, with a smaller cargo area. It made up for this with a driving experience that was far more engaging, with great body control, sharp responses and impressive performance from its two engine options.

The base Acura TLX got a 272-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard with all-wheel drive optional, and even in this entry level trim the TLX was far quicker than any Camry. The Type S got a 355-hp 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 and AWD as standard. With a 4.6-second 0-60mph time it was up there with the Audi S4 and BMW M340i in straight-line speed, and the fuel penalty over the four-cylinder model wasn’t too drastic. But both used far more gas than the Camry, especially in city driving.

While the TLX may share some of its core components with the Honda Accord, the TLX actually has its own unique platform and a lot of fine-tuning has been done to ensure that it offers a far sportier driving experience. The interior is also packed with high-quality materials and packed with tech that either costs extra in the Camry (and Accord) or isn’t offered at all. Sadly, the TLX was discontinued in 2025 due to poor sales and the enduring popularity of SUVs across most segments, but this does mean that nearly new models are still available at discounted prices, and with a short five-year production run, the TLX is still technologically current.

Camry vs. TLX

While both vehicles are classed as mid-size sedans, they have very different characters, and when new, very different price points. A base Toyota Camry LE starts off at $29,300 before taxes and options. It lacks some niceties, but you do get wireless smartphone charging, Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 and the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine as the rest of the range. In a recent analysis of the latest Camry trims, we found that this trim is perfect for duty as basic transport, but the XLE is packed with features you may want and need, and the extra $5,200 you pay is well worth it all things considered. For under $36,000 including destination charges, you can have a brand-new 2026 Toyota Camry XLE on your driveway, and that should be more than enough car for most people.

But for those wanting more luxury, a sharper drive and way more straight line speed, the Acura TLX is waiting in the wings. It may no longer be available new, but that just means that the original pricing of between $46,000 (for the Technology/A-Spec) and $60,000 (For the Type S) are now more in line with a well-specced Camry. A 2024 Acura TLX Technology can easily be found for under $35,000, while the potent 355-hp Type S is available for less than $50,000. This model comes with standard features like adaptive dampers, leather upholstery, and an ELS premium audio system, as well as the performance to take on some seriously quick rivals.

Where the Camry wins hands down is in its superior fuel economy and that new car warranty that will cover you for a few more years compared to the older TLX. The Camry should prove to be cheaper to run overall, and Toyota’s hybrid powerplants are the most reliable in the business. But while the TLX may have more features (that may break over time) and higher stressed turbocharged engines, the reliability ratings are far from a walkover.

In fact, the Acura comes out on top in the Kelley Blue Book owner reliability score and is a sliver ahead of the Camry according to the J.D. Power quality and reliability score. Consumer Reports favors the Camry in terms of owner-verified reliability data, but overall, both models have proven to be durable and less troublesome than most of their direct rivals.

Choosing between these two comes down to what you want out of your daily commute. If you are the more cautious type who is interested in plenty of interior space, low running costs and excellent fuel economy, then the Camry is without equal. If you prefer a more premium and exciting driving experience, the Acura TLX remains a class act, especially as a used buy.

You get a proper luxury sport sedan experience for Camry money, without having to compromise on reliability. There’s no wrong choice here, just pick the one that suits your needs best.