2022 Lexus NX vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, with its blunt and bulbous nose giving it an aggressive front-end appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was characterized by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite the presence of 20-inch alloy wheels, the exaggerated quarter panels seemed to overwhelm the design. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid offered a two-tone interior with soft leather for the Limited and Platinum trims, though the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges also contributed to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus NX showcased a refined and simplified design, with a focus on the brand's signature spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The NX was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, offering more passenger and cargo space. The interior featured a minimalist approach, with fewer buttons and knobs compared to the previous model. The NX 350 F Sport variant stood out with its unique mesh-pattern grille, body-colour fender trim, and sport-bolstered seats. The interior was designed for comfort, with padded areas for the driver's legs and a panoramic moonroof extending over the rear seats. However, the decluttered dashboard meant that some functions were integrated into the touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency with a rating of 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. However, this change also led to a decrease in total output to 243 horsepower. While the hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission, the driving experience was less engaging, with the engine sounding strained during acceleration or hill climbs. The steering was lifeless, and the SUV's handling was affected by its weight, leading to unwanted body movement. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, especially in urban settings where its electric motor torque and EV Mode shone.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid delivering 239 horsepower and an estimated 6.0 L/100 km in combined driving. The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid boasted 302 horsepower and a 61-kilometre electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The F Sport variant added adaptive variable sports suspension and performance dampers, enhancing its driving dynamics. The NX 350 F Sport felt responsive and athletic on winding roads, while the regular NX 350 offered a more relaxed driving experience. However, the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of its German rivals, and road and wind noise were more pronounced than expected.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum provided comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with features like a heated steering wheel and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the narrow cabin made it uncomfortable for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and lacked support, making it unsuitable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres. However, storage solutions were not as practical as before, with the wireless smartphone charger blocking access to the storage area.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered a more intimate and cozy interior, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The F Sport trim provided better bolstering for the front seats, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space. Cargo capacity increased by 14% to 643 litres behind the rear seats, with a total of 1,328 litres when folded down. The NX also featured a Thematic Ambient Illumination system with various themes, although it was not tested during the review.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a comprehensive infotainment system, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. However, the JBL sound system's performance varied depending on the music genre. The Highlander also offered Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 Lexus NX marked a significant technological leap with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. It featured large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based services. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available as an upgrade. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. The Mark Levinson premium surround system, available as an option, delivered excellent sound quality. The NX also offered a digital mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and a digital key feature. However, the touchscreen collected fingerprints and reflections, and there was no tuning knob for the audio system.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included features like automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. New additions included intersection support and emergency steering assistance. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance systems were effective but occasionally felt uneven. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included advanced safety features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System was tested and proved effective in bringing the NX to a safe stop. The NX also offered a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist technology. Additional safety features were available in packages, including rear pedestrian detection and a panoramic view monitoring system.