2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for a more modern appeal, was available in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. Each model offered various trim levels, including base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury, with base MSRPs ranging from $47,400 to $59,950, excluding a $2,145 destination charge. The NX 350, a turbocharged model, was noted for its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details reminiscent of the Lexus IS sports sedan. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. Interior options included NuLuxe simulated leather upholstery, with real leather and open pore wood trim available in the NX Executive Package. The F Sport trim stood out with unique design elements like a mesh-pattern grille and sport-bolstered seats, while the minimalist interior design, though decluttered, sometimes made it challenging to locate controls quickly.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, its side profile introduced a softer character line, adding unnecessary visual weight. The rear design echoed the front's trapezoidal theme, resulting in a somewhat disjointed overall look compared to more cohesive designs like the Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot. Inside, the Highlander's asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element that added visual interest and storage space. The Bronze Edition, new for 2022, included unique features like 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric seat upholstery, which, while distinctive, raised concerns about durability and cleanliness. The Softex synthetic leather substitute was less convincing than alternatives, and the third-row seating was less accommodating, with more hard plastics and limited comfort.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, the NX 350h and NX 450h+, with the latter being a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) delivering 302 horsepower and an estimated 61 kilometres of pure electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) in Canada. The NX 350 F Sport added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The F Sport felt taut and lean on winding roads, while the regular NX 350 offered a softer driving character. Lexus claimed a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.6 seconds for the NX 350, with observed fuel consumption of 10.6 L/100 km for the F Sport and 9.2 L/100 km for the non-F Sport. Despite improvements, the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of German rivals, and the NX was not suited for off-road adventures due to limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard AWD, with an electric motor powering the rear axle for additional traction. Toyota estimated a 0 to 100 km/h time of 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 engine drone, particularly when ascending hills. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The Highlander Hybrid offered a soft ride quality, with a suspension that smoothed over road imperfections while maintaining adequate cornering confidence. The cabin remained quiet on highways, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered more interior room for passengers and cargo, though it felt cozy from the driver's seat due to the new dashboard design. Comfort was a highlight, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The F Sport trim provided better bolstering for spirited driving, and thoughtful padding on the driver's door panel and centre console enhanced comfort. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, with rear air conditioning vents, heated cushions, and USB charging ports. The NX's panoramic glass sunroof extended over the back seat, adding to the sense of space. Cargo space increased by 14% to 643 litres behind the back seat, expanding to 1,328 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments for drivers of all sizes. Storage options were plentiful, with trays, shelves, and large door pockets for personal items. The second-row seats offered generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs for added comfort. A second-row bench was available as a no-cost option, increasing passenger capacity to eight. The third-row seat was less accommodating, with limited headroom and legroom, making it suitable for occasional use by children. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed. Limited and Platinum trims included a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. Both versions included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround system optional. The new Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems responded to natural voice commands, and a complimentary three-year trial subscription to Drive Connect service was included. Additional technologies included a digital mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and a digital key capability.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 12.3-inch screen available on top trims. The system was responsive, with logically organized menus and physical shortcut buttons for common features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on Limited and Platinum trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system were standard on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a safe stop if the driver was unresponsive. Additional safety features included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist technology.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a blind-spot monitor. A surround view camera system and head-up display were available on the top Platinum trim. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist systems required some fine-tuning for smoother operation.