2022 Lexus GX vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson was built on a new platform, offering a long-wheelbase model in North America with two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front showcased Hyundai's new design language, featuring a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals. When lit, these lights formed a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird's wings. The Tucson's side profile borrowed design cues from the Hyundai Elantra, with a silver D-pillar creating a floating roof effect. At the rear, the Tucson sported LED-illuminated toothy taillights, adding a unique touch to its design. Depending on the trim level, the Tucson rode on either 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, with high-end models featuring premium fascias, skid plates, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain- and odour-resistant cloth seats, sport combination seats in the N-Line, and leather-trimmed seats available in higher trims. The dashboard's horizontal lines and uncluttered design contributed to a sense of spaciousness.

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its modern updates, retained a design reminiscent of its first-generation predecessor. The signature Lexus spindle grille, running lights, and triple-beam LED headlights were the main distinguishing features. Inside, the cabin exuded the legendary Lexus refinement, with high-quality materials and a quiet atmosphere. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, with prices ranging from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding destination charges. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the GX 460 Premium, started at $80,550. The interior featured a blend of physical controls and modern technology, with comfortable seating and a focus on practicality. However, some switchgear felt outdated, and the placement of certain controls could be confusing. Despite its dated design, the GX offered a comfortable and refined driving experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. The ICE engine produced 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid delivered a combined 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain was more powerful and efficient, with a fuel consumption rating of 6.4 L/100 km combined. The Tucson also offered an upcoming plug-in hybrid version with an estimated 261 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road testing, providing stability and control. The ICE models had a fuel consumption rating of 8.2 L/100 km combined for FWD and 9.0 L/100 km for AWD.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its power, the GX's performance was hindered by its 2,325-kilogram curb weight. The V8 engine provided a satisfying engine note and a maximum towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms. The GX's six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system, distributing power 40/60 between the front and rear wheels. The GX's fuel consumption was estimated at 14.5 L/100 km combined, with a real-world result of 14.0 L/100 km. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved ride quality and off-road capability, while the GX's handling was stable and secure. However, the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy, affecting smooth driving in traffic.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered a spacious and well-appointed interior, comparable to its competitors like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Rogue. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with an eight-way version available on higher trims. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and memory settings available. The Tucson's new platform provided more passenger and cargo space, with 1,095 litres of cargo capacity. The rear seats offered ample legroom, and the cabin comfortably accommodated a family of four. The rear featured a 60-40 split-folding bench seat and a dual-level cargo floor.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. The interior featured comfortable seating and ample padding, though some switchgear felt outdated. The Black Line Special Edition offered NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and triple-zone automatic climate control. The GX's third-row seat was challenging to access and uncomfortable for adults, with limited cargo space when in use. The tailgate swung open to the side, making loading difficult in tight spaces. The GX offered 328 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,322 litres with the third row folded, and 1,833 litres with the second row folded.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, a fully digital instrument cluster, and additional USB outlets. The touchpoints on the centre console were responsive, though the lack of physical buttons made it challenging to use while driving. The steering wheel controls were narrow and less user-friendly.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation. The system included a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services with a WiFi hotspot. The stereo controls were located below the off-roading controls, making them difficult to use. The infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and the voice recognition technology was quick and accurate. The GX also included Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been tested by the IIHS or NHTSA. It featured the Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Additional safety features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. Hyundai offered a 5-year/100,000-kilometre limited warranty.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings due to its age. It included the Lexus Safety System+, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The GX also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some modern safety technologies found in competitors.