2022 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim did not impress with its new aesthetic treatment. The lack of a suspension lift and more aggressive tires made the XRT feel more like a visual upgrade than a functional one. The side steps, while useful for roof rack access, hindered entry and exit and reduced the vehicle's off-road capability. The XRT trim, priced between the SE/SEL and the Limited/Calligraphy trims, offered little visual contrast, especially in the Portofino Gray paint with a black cloth interior. Despite this, the interior design was thoughtful and of high quality for its price point, though not as upscale as higher trims.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX boasted a commanding presence with its large spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. The GX's design was both sleek and rugged, with flared fenders and a short wheelbase that suggested off-road capability. However, the interior was marred by an excessive amount of plastic, which detracted from its luxury status. Despite this, the GX offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery. The GX's design, while not as modern as some competitors, still managed to convey a sense of capability and style.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. While not particularly powerful, it was adequate for everyday driving and highway cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission performed smoothly, and the vehicle offered various driving modes, including Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow. The XRT's ride was composed and quiet, with excellent suspension isolation and minimal road noise. However, the engine struggled on inclines and lacked responsiveness in certain situations. The test vehicle averaged 22.3 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 24 mpg.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine with 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 provided a satisfying driving experience with a linear power delivery. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds but lagged behind other SUVs in terms of fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight contributed to its rolling through corners, but it remained predictable and controllable. The vehicle's 4WD system and Torsen limited-slip differential enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offered a comfortable and spacious interior with dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats. The rear seats provided ample room for passengers, and the SUV's cargo space was generous, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Smart Tailgate feature was convenient but occasionally opened unintentionally. Storage compartments were plentiful, though some were difficult to access.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space and physical controls, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. The second row was comfortable, but the third row was cramped and best suited for emergencies. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. The side-hinged trunk door required effort to open and limited access in tight spaces.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and clean graphics. The XRT also included Hyundai's digital key technology and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system, though it lacked some advanced features available in higher trims.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, but the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The GX included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo and Lexus Enform Remote, but the overall tech package was underwhelming compared to newer Lexus models. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a robust 4WD system and features like KDSS and a multi-terrain monitor.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The SUV earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance score. The Santa Fe's safety systems performed reliably during testing, enhancing the vehicle's overall safety.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it included several advanced driver assistance systems, such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. While lacking some top-end features, the GX's safety technology was modern and effective, despite the vehicle's older structural design.