2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

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 Executive Package. The F Sport trim stood out with unique exterior and interior features, including sport-bolstered seats and a new F Sport steering wheel. The minimalist interior design, while a departure from the previous button-heavy dashboard, integrated many functions into a 14-inch touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market since its North American debut in 1996, continued to evolve with its latest iteration. The RAV4's design, while fitting in with current crossover trends, featured angular wheel arches and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. The interior boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and a straightforward centre stack, with a touchscreen interface positioned for minimal driver distraction. The RAV4's design included unique geometric patterns that tied the cabin together, from seat inserts to dash pieces. The test vehicle, equivalent to Canada's Trail grade, featured 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels. The RAV4's design and build quality reflected Toyota's traditional fit and finish, contributing to its reputation as a mature and sophisticated crossover SUV.

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's performance on winding roads was taut and responsive, while the regular NX 350 offered a softer driving experience. The NX's handling was impressive, though the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of some German rivals. The NX's off-road capabilities were limited by its ground clearance and approach and departure angles.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, including a gasoline-only model with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for 217 horsepower, while the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and up to 68 kilometres of electric-only range. The RAV4's gasoline engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission provided smooth power delivery without turbo lag. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring on AWD models. The RAV4 Prime's fuel efficiency and electric range made it an attractive option for eco-conscious drivers. The RAV4's performance was versatile, with drive modes allowing for subtle adjustments to suit different driving preferences.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered increased interior space, with a 14% increase in cargo capacity to 643 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,328 litres with the seats folded. The interior was comfortable, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The F Sport trim provided better seat bolstering, and rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space. Thematic Ambient Illumination added a touch of luxury, though it was not tested during the review.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered substantial cargo space, with 1,059 litres available behind the second row and up to 1,977 litres with the seats folded. The RAV4's payload capacity ranged from 499 to 511 kilograms, and towing capacities varied by model, with the Trail and TRD Off-Road models capable of towing up to 1,588 kilograms. The interior was spacious, with comfortable front seats and ample storage options. The RAV4's dual-zone climate control and heated steering wheel added to the comfort, while the middle seat in the second row was less desirable for long journeys.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen and an optional 14-inch display. The system 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 system available. The NX offered cloud-based services, though connectivity was limited in remote areas. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems responded to natural commands, and a three-year trial of Drive Connect service was included. Additional technologies included a digital mirror, head-up display, and digital key capability.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 9-inch screen available on higher trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The RAV4 Prime offered advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient lighting. Higher trims featured a JBL audio system, navigation, and a bird’s-eye view camera system. The RAV4's technology offerings catered to a range of needs, from basic connectivity to advanced features on top 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.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured the Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. In Canada, a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.