2022 Lexus GX vs 2022 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox underwent several styling updates, including a new grille, LED headlights, and LED daytime running lights, which contributed to a sleeker appearance. The grille was more upright and flanked by large fake air intakes, giving the Equinox a chunkier look compared to its predecessor. While it maintained a car-based crossover design, it didn't adopt the rugged styling of some competitors like the Subaru Forester or Toyota RAV4. Inside, the Equinox featured a creatively designed dashboard with a central touchscreen and large air vents, offering decent materials and fit and finish for its price range. The RS model added black exterior trim, darkened wheels, and a black interior with red stitching, although the subdued interior was not to everyone's taste.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX retained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights being the main distinguishing features. The cabin, however, showcased the legendary Lexus craftsmanship, with high-quality materials and a quiet environment. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, with prices ranging from $72,100 to $83,750. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the Premium trim, added unique styling elements. Despite its dated design, the GX's interior quality and refinement were notable, although some switchgear felt old-school.

The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox was powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. It featured a six-speed automatic transmission with standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. While the Equinox offered more torque than many rivals, it lagged in horsepower. The engine performed well in city driving, but at higher speeds, it felt coarse and unresponsive. The automatic transmission's shifts were somewhat rough, and the Equinox lacked sporty handling and the refinement of some competitors.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with its 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivered 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its hefty curb weight of 2,325 kilograms, the GX managed a 7.8-second run to 60 mph, aided by its torque. The six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system, providing stability and off-road capability. However, the GX's high drag coefficient and fuel consumption of 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres were drawbacks. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System improved ride quality, but the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy.

The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox offered seating for five across two rows, with decent headroom and second-row legroom. However, front-seat legroom was somewhat limited, and the lack of a telescoping steering wheel made finding a comfortable driving position challenging. The Equinox provided a tall seating position and good forward visibility, but rear visibility was hampered by the small rear window. Cargo space was near the bottom of the segment, with 847 litres behind the rear seats and 1,809 litres with them folded.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and clear outward visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it maneuverable in various settings. The interior offered comfortable seating and physical controls, though some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition added NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The GX's third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, reducing cargo space. With the third row folded, it offered 1,322 litres of cargo space, and 1,833 litres with the second row down, less than some competitors.

The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen and a Bose audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large menu icons and good screen graphics. The addition of wireless smartphone connectivity was a significant advantage, although the centre-console slot for phones was too small.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition were highlights. The GX also featured Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras, though it lacked some modern technologies found in competitors.

The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox received top "Good" scores in most IIHS crash tests, with a "Marginal" rating in the updated side crash test. It earned a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention in vehicle-to-vehicle situations and an "Advanced" rating for vehicle-to-pedestrian scenarios. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and more. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings due to its age, but it came with Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, which could be a drawback for some buyers.