2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341, presented a robust yet somewhat unremarkable exterior. Despite its fully loaded status, it lacked the larger alloy wheels found on its non-hybrid counterpart, and its electronic AWD system was not suited for more rugged terrains. The RAV4 Hybrid's styling was tough for a compact SUV, but it could have benefited from bolder wheels. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was a mix of style and practicality, with a blend of quality materials and hard plastics. However, a rattle from the license plate on the tailgate detracted from the overall experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus NX, available in four model series, showcased a refined design with its 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 NuLuxe simulated leather upholstery, with real leather and open-pore wood trim available in the Executive Package. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique grille, 20-inch wheels, and sport-bolstered seats. The minimalist interior design was a departure from the previous model, with most functions integrated into a large touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gas engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided a lively acceleration, although the engine sounded unpleasant at high revs. The RAV4 Hybrid's CVT operated smoothly, and its regenerative braking system was effective. The SUV's steering was well-weighted, and its suspension design offered a comfortable ride, though the tires lacked grip in corners. The RAV4 Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, averaging 5.9 L/100 km, and its 20.6 cm ground clearance allowed for light off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Lexus 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 NX 350 F Sport offered additional driving modes and an adaptive variable sports suspension, enhancing its performance on winding roads. The NX 350's acceleration to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds was credible, with observed fuel consumption of 10.6 L/100 km for the F Sport and 9.2 L/100 km for the non-F Sport. While the NX's handling was impressive, the engine's sound was less refined than its German rivals, and road noise was more noticeable than expected.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with its power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. Rear passengers enjoyed decent legroom and heated seats. The dashboard was user-friendly, with large climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. The RAV4 Hybrid offered 1,059 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered a cozy interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim provided better seat bolstering, and rear passengers had ample space and amenities. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space. Cargo capacity increased by 14% to 643 litres, expandable to 1,328 litres with the rear seats down.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The top-tier infotainment system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. The RAV4 Hybrid also offered a 360-degree camera system and a camera rearview mirror.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Voice Assistant technology, and cloud-based features. The Mark Levinson premium sound system was available, and the NX offered a digital mirror, head-up display, and digital key capability. However, the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and top marks from IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with advanced safety features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The NX also included Emergency Driving Stop System, blind-spot monitoring, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety technologies were available in packages.