2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for the model year, was available in four series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was a standout, offering a distinct Lexus design with its signature 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 or real leather with open-pore wood trim, and a panoramic moonroof was available for the first time. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique grille, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and sport-bolstered seats. The minimalist interior design, however, was a departure from the previous model, with many functions integrated into a 14-inch touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing from its 2021 redesign, embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling cues. It featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels for a sleeker profile. The interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering ample storage and comfortable seating across all rows. The Sienna's flexible seating arrangements included second-row captain’s chairs with ottomans and a third-row bench that folded into the floor. The minivan boasted impressive cargo capacity, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, and offered a maximum towing capacity of 1,585 kilograms. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, especially for families with their hands full.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower and an estimated 61 kilometres of 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. The NX 350 F Sport added adaptive variable sports suspension and performance dampers, enhancing its sporty character. The SUV's handling was improved over the previous model, though it lacked the refinement of some German competitors. Fuel consumption for the NX 350 was estimated at 9.5 L/100 km combined, with the F Sport variant consuming slightly more.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offered four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. Its handling was commendable for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride. The Sienna's fuel efficiency was impressive, with Natural Resources Canada estimating 6.6 L/100 km combined for front-wheel-drive models and 6.7 L/100 km for all-wheel-drive versions. The hybrid system's battery pack was tucked under the front seats, contributing to the minivan's practicality.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided a more intimate and cozy interior compared to its predecessor, with comfortable seating and thoughtful padding for the driver's comfort. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space, with features like rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The NX offered a 14% increase in cargo space, with 643 litres behind the rear seats and 1,328 litres with the seats folded. The panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for loading cargo, with measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also had a 3,500-pound towing capacity. The standard 60/40-split third-row bench folded into the floor, and each row offered storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate, with available foot-motion triggers, added convenience for busy families.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. It featured large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and over-the-air updates. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system optional. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems responded to natural commands, and a digital key feature was available. However, the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna offered a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. However, it lacked wireless connectivity for these features. The Sienna included a one-year trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect services, with an 8-year trial of Service Connect. Higher trims offered a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. A digital rearview mirror was available on select trims, providing a clear view of the road behind. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with Smart Key System on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus NX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included features like 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 stop if the driver was unresponsive. The NX also had a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety features were available in packages, including rear pedestrian detection and a panoramic view monitoring system.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was expected to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. The Sienna also had 10 airbags and several LATCH connectors for child seats. A rear-seat reminder system was standard, and tire-pressure monitoring was included. The spare tire was relocated for safety and convenience.