Is the Lexus ES 350 the same as Camry?
No—the Lexus ES 350 and Toyota Camry are distinct models, though they share a platform and several powertrain options.
Beyond that quick distinction, this article examines how the two cars relate in engineering and how they diverge in branding, features, and buyer appeal.
Shared foundations: platform, engineering, and powertrains
Both cars ride on Toyota's TNGA-K architecture and align in many mechanical areas, which helps with parts compatibility and performance characteristics.
Powertrains and configurations
- Platform: GA-K (part of the TNGA family) underpins both the Camry and ES, enabling similar chassis geometry and safety tech.
- Engines and transmissions: Camry trims offer a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6; ES 350 uses the 3.5-liter V6; hybrids in both families use a 2.5-liter four with electric motors, paired to automatic transmissions (8-speed in ES and non-hybrid Camry; hybrid variants use a different setup).
- Drivetrain options: Camry offers front-drive with optional all-wheel drive; ES 350 is typically front-wheel drive only in the U.S. market, with no AWD option offered on most ES trims.
- Safety and tech: Both lines offer advanced driver-assistance systems (Toyota Safety Sense and Lexus Safety System+), with expected variations in tuning and feature availability by brand.
In short, the ES 350 and Camry share core engineering and powertrain lineage, reflecting Toyota’s strategy to maintain efficiency and reliability while differentiating through luxury-oriented tuning and features.
Differences that set them apart: luxury, pricing, and features
Despite the shared bones, the two cars target different buyers and price tiers, with distinct interiors, features, and styling cues.
Key differentiation points
- Branding and pricing: Lexus positions the ES as a luxury sedan, with higher base pricing and premium materials across trims; the Camry is a mainstream mid-size sedan with broader affordability and value-focused options.
- Interior and materials: The ES emphasizes quiet, refined cabin ambiance, softer materials, and premium seating; Camry interiors have improved substantially but emphasize practicality and cost efficiency across trims.
- Ride quality and refinement: The ES aims for a smoother, quieter ride with luxury-oriented tuning; Camry offers a balanced ride that can feel sportier or more comfortable depending on the trim (e.g., XSE or XLE).
- Features and options: The ES often includes more standard luxury features earlier in the lineup (premium audio, leather, advanced safety tech); Camry provides strong value with generous features and a wider range of trims, including broader AWD availability.
- All-wheel drive: Camry offers AWD on many trims; ES does not typically offer AWD in the U.S. market, reinforcing its front-drive focus.
These contrasts reflect the brands’ positioning: Lexus emphasizes luxury and refinement, while Toyota focuses on value, practicality, and versatility.
Which should you choose?
Choosing between the ES 350 and Camry depends on priorities like luxury feel, budget, and drivetrain preferences.
Guiding considerations
- If you prioritize a premium, quiet cabin and refined ride, and you’re willing to pay more for luxury, the ES 350 is the stronger pick.
- If you want strong value, practical features, and AWD capability for varied weather or roads, the Camry is the smarter choice.
- If efficiency matters, both offer hybrid options—the ES 300h and Camry Hybrid—with different cost and efficiency profiles.
Ultimately, both models share a common engineering thread, but they cater to different buyer experiences and budgets.
Summary
The Lexus ES 350 and Toyota Camry are not the same car, but they are closely related under Toyota’s engineering umbrella. The ES 350 is a luxury-oriented sedan with a higher price tag and a refined interior, while the Camry is a mainstream mid-size sedan offering more value, practical features, and AWD on many trims. Your choice hinges on whether you value luxury refinement or broad practicality and cost efficiency.
What Toyota is comparable to the Lexus ES 350?
Toyota Camry: Interior Features. The interior features of the ES 350 is where luxury counts. Both sedans carry up to 5 passengers and offer ample room to stretch out on long trips.
Is Lexus ES basically a Camry?
The first five generations of the ES used the Toyota Camry platform, while the latter generations are more closely related to both the Camry and the Avalon.
Is the Lexus 350 the same as a Camry?
The Lexus ES 350 and Toyota Camry share the same platform but serve different purposes. The ES 350 is a luxury sedan with a quieter, more refined ride, premium interior materials, and more advanced features. It comes only with a 3.5L V6 engine tuned for smooth performance.
Is ES the same as Camry?
Lexus ES vs Toyota Camry
ES has 2487 cc (Petrol top model) engine, while Camry has 2487 cc (Petrol top model) engine. As far as mileage is concerned, the ES has a mileage of 18 kmpl (Petrol top model) and the Camry has a mileage of 25.49 kmpl (Petrol top model).
