2022 Lexus GX vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a striking and sporty design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing presence. Its design featured a highback tail with a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar, and wheels pushed to the corners of the chassis, creating a sense of stability and style. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those of a Porsche 911, added to its aesthetic appeal, while the squinting headlights and sealed air intake mimicked a traditional gas car's design. The interior was equally impressive, with dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and a mix of suede and faux leather seats, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a more traditional and somewhat dated appearance, with its signature spindle grille and LED headlights being the most modern elements. The interior, while crafted with the legendary Lexus refinement, echoed themes from its predecessors, offering a quiet and comfortable cabin. The GX's design was more about functionality than flair, with a focus on quality materials and a serene driving experience, albeit with a less contemporary aesthetic compared to the EV6.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered a range of powertrain options, with the GT-Line e-AWD model delivering 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque from its dual electric motors. This configuration allowed the EV6 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, providing a thrilling driving experience. The EV6's regenerative braking system offered more than eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving in its maximum I-Pedal setting. However, the EV6's range was affected by cold weather, with real-world efficiency falling short of Kia's estimates. Charging capabilities were impressive, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, though real-world charging speeds were limited by available infrastructure.

The 2022 Lexus GX, powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0 to 60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. The GX's full-time 4WD system and six-speed automatic transmission provided a stable and capable driving experience, particularly off-road. However, its fuel consumption was high, with an estimated 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The GX's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved ride quality, but the vehicle's heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered a spacious interior with generous legroom and headroom, thanks to its low floor design. The rear seats reclined and featured air vents, creating a comfortable environment for passengers. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres available behind the seats and 1,322 litres with the seats folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it featured an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat, offering clear visibility. The interior featured comfortable seating and physical controls, though some switchgear was outdated. The GX's third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, reducing cargo space when in use. With the third-row seat stowed, the GX offered 1,322 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,833 litres with the second-row seat folded. The side-swinging tailgate made loading cumbersome, especially in tight spaces.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a 360-degree camera system and a head-up display featuring augmented reality. The system lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but offered a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and remote parking assist on higher trims. The technology was impressive without being overwhelming, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD player, along with a Lexus app and Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the dual-screen view and voice recognition technology were highlights. The GX also offered standard Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras.

The 2022 Kia EV6 came equipped with a range of safety features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims offered blind spot monitoring and 360-degree cameras, though no crash-test ratings were available.

The 2022 Lexus GX included the Lexus Safety System+, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, which may appeal to those preferring fewer driving aids.