2022 Lexus GX vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid emerged as a bold new entrant in the SUV market, showcasing a dramatic design that set it apart from its predecessors. With sharp, angular lines and a longer, wider stance, the Tucson Hybrid was unmistakably modern and distinct from the 2021 model. Its futuristic grille, seamlessly integrated with LED lighting, added to its unique appeal. However, the aggressive styling was a gamble, potentially polarizing opinions among consumers. Inside, the Tucson Hybrid offered a spacious and airy cabin, with a sleek, hoodless driver information display that, while sharp, was prone to dust accumulation. The interior was equipped with standard heated front seats and a range of features that increased with higher trims, such as a 10.25-inch digital display and ambient lighting.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX retained a more traditional design, reminiscent of its earlier models, with the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior, while not as modern as some competitors, boasted high-quality materials and a quiet cabin, thanks to the refined V8 engine. The GX offered a comfortable driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. However, the interior layout was somewhat dated, with physical controls that were sometimes confusingly placed. The GX's tall and narrow design made it easy to maneuver, but the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, especially in tight spaces.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid impressed with its 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided a noticeable improvement in performance over the gas-only model. The Tucson Hybrid's steering was responsive, and its six-speed automatic transmission handled shifts smoothly. The suspension effectively absorbed road imperfections, maintaining balance through corners. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with ratings of 6.3 L/100 km in the city, 6.6 on the highway, and 6.4 combined. The plug-in hybrid variant offered even greater efficiency, with a 2.9 Le/100 km rating and 53 km of all-electric range.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with its 4.6-litre V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, allowing for a 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph. The GX's six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD system provided a stable driving experience, though the vehicle's shape and weight contributed to a high drag coefficient of 0.35. Fuel consumption was less impressive, with a combined rating of 14.5 L/100 km. The GX's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System enhanced off-road capability and on-road stability, but the steering was heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy, affecting smoothness in traffic.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid offered generous cargo space, with 1,097 litres in the trunk and 2,108 litres with the rear seats folded. This was significantly more than competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4. The Tucson's dual-level cargo floor and ample legroom in both front and rear seats added to its practicality. The interior featured thoughtful storage solutions, including angled bottle holders and multiple cupholders.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided a comfortable driving position and clear visibility, but its interior space was less accommodating. The third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, reducing cargo capacity when in use. With the third row stowed, the GX offered 1,322 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,833 litres with the second row folded. However, the side-swinging tailgate and high load floor made loading cumbersome, especially in tight spaces.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with native software, though Android Auto and Apple CarPlay only utilized part of the screen and required a wired connection. The touch-capacitive controls for infotainment and HVAC were less user-friendly than physical buttons, but steering-wheel controls offered an alternative. The Tucson provided ample USB ports and a premium Bose audio system in higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. However, the placement of stereo controls below off-roading knobs was counterintuitive. The dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition were highlights of the system.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot view monitor and remote smart park assist. The Tucson received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were not available.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured the Lexus Safety System+, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving aids. No crash-test ratings were available for the GX.