2022 Kia Seltos vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Kia Seltos was positioned between the smaller Kia Soul and the larger Kia Sportage, offering four trim levels in Canada: LX, EX, EX Premium, and SX. All trims except the LX came with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), with prices ranging from $23,595 to $33,195, excluding the $1,850 destination charge. The U.S. model tested, the Nightfall Edition, was similar to the top SX grade, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, a turbocharged engine, and a dual-clutch transmission. The Seltos was a small SUV with a stylish interior, though it had an abundance of hard plastic that detracted from its overall appeal. The controls were logically arranged, but the purple accent colour for the infotainment system was not universally liked.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights being the main distinguishing features. The cabin quality was exceptional, with a focus on smooth refinement and quietness, only interrupted by the V8 engine's roar. Available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, the GX's prices ranged from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding a $2,145 destination charge. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the Premium trim, started at $80,550. Despite its dated design, the GX's interior was crafted with care, offering a luxurious experience.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in the LX, EX, and EX Premium trims, producing 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The SX trim featured a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The Seltos provided a choice of driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Smart, with Smart mode balancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The AWD system included a Lock function for power distribution, and the Seltos was capable of light off-roading. However, the suspension tuning was less than ideal, leading to a bouncy ride on uneven roads. Despite these issues, the Seltos was lively in urban settings and easy to park.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with a base curb weight of 2,325 kilograms, was equipped with a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain allowed the GX to tow up to 2,948 kilograms. A six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system provided stability, with a 40/60 power distribution between the front and rear wheels. The GX's fuel consumption was estimated at 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres, but it achieved 14.0 L/100 km during testing. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved ride quality, making the GX stable and secure. However, the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy, affecting smooth driving in traffic.

The 2022 Kia Seltos excelled in form and function, offering a roomy interior with easy access due to its ride height and large door openings. The driver's seat was manually adjustable, and heated front seats were standard on most trims. The rear seat provided ample space for adults, though the seatback angle was slightly reclined. Cargo space was generous, with 752 litres behind the back seat and 1,778 litres with the rear seat folded down.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. The interior featured comfortable seating and physical controls, though some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The rear seat was spacious, but access was challenging due to narrow door openings. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with a heavy tailgate that swung open to the side, complicating loading. Cargo capacity was limited to 328 litres behind the third row, 1,322 litres with the third row folded, and 1,833 litres with the second row down.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system starting at the EX Premium grade, paired with a Bose premium sound system on the SX trim. Features included Bluetooth, navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was intuitive, with physical controls for easy access, but lacked a native voice recognition system.

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, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the voice recognition technology was excellent. The GX also offered Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras.

The 2022 Kia Seltos was equipped with numerous safety features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-keeping assist. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist. The Seltos received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.