2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and customizable experience, with buyers needing to choose between a two-door or four-door body style. Engine options were diverse, ranging from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a gasoline V8, with a plug-in hybrid also available. The Wrangler's trim levels included Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with special editions like the High Tide model adding unique features. Despite its high price, the Wrangler's interior remained basic, focusing on durability and practicality, with features like floor drain plugs for easy cleaning.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid presented a more refined and luxurious appearance. The RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance models maintained a sleek design, with the latter featuring sportier elements like a blacked-out grille and matte-black wheels. Inside, the RX offered a minimalist and contemporary design, with high-quality materials such as Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim in the RX 350h Luxury. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, while less luxurious, still provided a comfortable and stylish interior with options for contrast and colour.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It had an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. Despite its off-road capabilities, the Wrangler's fuel consumption was high, averaging 14.0 L/100 km during testing. The driving experience was unique, with a focus on adventure and exploration, though it came with compromises in comfort and refinement.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two distinct powertrains. The RX 350h featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid engine, producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, with a fuel efficiency of 7.4 L/100 km. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, but consumed 11.3 L/100 km. The RX 500h provided a more dynamic driving experience with features like adaptive damping suspension and rear-wheel steering, while the RX 350h focused on efficiency and comfort.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was utilitarian, with durable cloth upholstery and plastic materials. Entry and exit were challenging, especially with a raised suspension. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and windshield, requiring adjustment. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry difficulties but enjoyed good visibility and comfort. Cargo space was ample, with 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the seat folded down.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid prioritized comfort and space. The RX 350h Luxury offered ten-way power-adjustable front seats with premium leather, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance had eight-way adjustable seats with standard leather. Rear passengers enjoyed good leg support and legroom, though headroom was tight. Cargo space was improved, with 838 litres behind the rear seat and 1,308 litres with the seat folded down, matching the standard RX 350.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's technology was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades included a larger Uconnect 8.4 system with satellite radio and navigation. The Wrangler also featured remote engine starting, satellite radio, and single-zone automatic climate control with a new air filtration system.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cloud-based navigation, and an Intelligent Assistant. While the system worked well, it had some drawbacks, such as limited screen menu views and reflections. The RX also offered a head-up display and dual-function touch-sensing control pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered optional safety features through the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, its crash-test ratings were mediocre, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. The RX also included Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist, though some features had limitations, such as the front cross-traffic alert system and curve-speed reduction tech.