2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX models. Its design, both different and familiar, maintained a scowling face that deviated from traditional SUV aesthetics. Despite its luxury badge, the NX shared its platform with the older Toyota RAV4, making it feel a step behind in engineering. The F Sport Black Line edition added a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint, which contrasted nicely with the dark trim elements. Inside, the design once radical, now felt familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury materials, leaning more towards mainstream quality.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged roots, reminiscent of the 1980s SUV craze. It stayed true to its pickup truck lineage, unlike many modern SUVs that evolved into car-based platforms. The 4Runner's design emphasized adventure, with a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper. Inside, the layout felt dated, reminiscent of the late 2000s, but it prioritized function over form. The Trail Special Edition we drove featured unique monotone paint, a Yakima cargo basket, and all-weather floor mats, with the “Lunar Rock” paint standing out. The 4Runner offered various trims, each catering to different needs, from off-road prowess to road-oriented comfort.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more about efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension in the Black Line package improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with quick acceleration demands. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport offered minimal impact on performance.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, felt underwhelming in most driving situations but reliable. The 4Runner's ride was harsh on pavement, with noticeable body roll, but it excelled off-road. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models included features like Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing trail performance. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, surpassing most car-based crossovers.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid offered limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. Front-seat legroom was generous, but rear legroom lagged behind competitors. The sloping roofline and thick rear pillars hindered rear visibility, though large mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. A power-folding second row and power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner provided ample cargo capacity, with up to 89.7 cubic feet in the two-row version. The optional third row reduced maximum cargo space to 88.8 cubic feet. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a convenient power rear window. While not the most spacious, the 4Runner offered practical storage solutions, though it could benefit from more efficient cabin packaging.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with an awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, the system felt dated, with text-heavy menus and outdated graphics. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, surrounded by hard buttons and dials. It supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with Bluetooth connectivity and Satellite Radio. While not the most advanced, the system was straightforward and tactile, ideal for off-road enthusiasts. Optional upgrades included navigation and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system were optional. The 4Runner received four stars in NHTSA frontal and side-impact tests and three stars for rollover testing.