2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 INFINITI QX60

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a comprehensive redesign, marking the beginning of its second generation. This transformation included a new exterior and interior design, updated powertrains, and advanced technologies, aligning with similar updates to its Nissan counterpart, the Pathfinder. The QX60's exterior changes resulted in a striking and elegant crossover SUV, featuring a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and oversized air intakes. The long hood and steeply raked windshield added to its elegance, while the blacked-out pillars created a floating roof effect. The rear design was tasteful, with "INFINITI" spelled out in chrome letters across the liftgate. However, the top Autograph trim level had a slight misstep with chromed panels at the rear, which some buyers might prefer to swap for matte black ones.

Inside, the QX60 offered a spacious and open feel, emphasized by horizontal lines and layers on the dash. The Autograph trim level featured quilted leather upholstery on the seats and dash, adding a touch of luxury. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display was well-placed for easy access, and the TFT instrument panel provided clear graphics and information. The centre console controls were intuitive and easy to use. Built in Smyrna, Tennessee, the QX60 showcased high craftsmanship and build quality, as expected from Infiniti vehicles.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line that swooped over the rear wheel arch, adding unnecessary visual weight. The rear design echoed the trapezoidal grille, resulting in a somewhat disjointed overall look compared to more cohesive designs in its class. Inside, the Highlander's asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element that added visual interest and provided storage space. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted high on the dash, reducing driver distraction.

The Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition, new for 2022, featured 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric seat upholstery with an incomplete motif of triangles. While the fabric was surrounded by Toyota's Softex synthetic leather, it lacked the convincing feel of genuine leather. The rear seating area had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but the third row suffered from uncomfortable armrests. Despite its styling and material quality not being standout features, the Highlander Hybrid remained appealing due to its hybrid powertrain, catering to a captive audience in its class.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 offered a superior driving experience with its nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT. This change resulted in cleaner and crisper shifts, enhancing the driving feel. The QX60 was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Fuel consumption was estimated at 11.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 10.8 combined. The suspension was reworked with MacPherson struts up front and an independent multilink setup in the rear, providing a smooth and serene ride. While not designed for off-road adventures, the QX60 excelled on highways and suburban streets, offering comfort and ample space for passengers.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, delivering 243 horsepower. It was paired with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive, with an electric motor powering the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid could reach 100 kilometres per hour in just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying more power as needed. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in an uninspired drone during acceleration, especially on hills. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing over bumps. The Highlander Hybrid offered a quiet cabin, making it one of the quieter midsize SUVs.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60, while not a minivan, offered a spacious and versatile interior. The three-row SUV provided ample storage, charging ports, and comfort for all passengers. The centre console featured a cubby for smartphones, cupholders, and covered storage. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easy access to the third row, which offered generous legroom. The QX60 had a cargo capacity of 411 litres behind the third row, expandable to 1,178 litres with the third row folded, and 2,135 litres with both rows folded. It also had a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kilograms with additional equipment.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with plenty of adjustments. However, the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. The interior provided ample storage, including trays for phones and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats were spacious, with captain's chairs that could slide and recline. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children. The Highlander Hybrid had a cargo capacity of 453 litres behind the third row, expandable to 1,370 litres with the third row folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed. Limited and Platinum trims featured a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 impressed with its standard and available technology. It featured full LED lighting, a power liftgate, and a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Higher trims included a wireless charging pad, navigation, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. The QX60 also offered a smart rearview mirror and a 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system on Sensory and Autograph models.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid met expectations with its technology features. It came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for the top trim. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate control knobs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on Limited and Platinum trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were also available on higher trims.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the previous generation received high safety ratings. It came with standard safety features, including multiple airbags, LATCH connectors, and advanced driver assistance systems. ProPilot Assist was standard on all trims except Pure, with optional features like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It included standard safety features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Platinum trim offered additional features like a surround-view camera system and head-up display. While the safety systems generally worked well, some fine-tuning was needed for adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.