2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Lexus NX underwent a significant redesign, offering four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. With base MSRPs ranging from $47,400 to $59,950, excluding a $2,145 destination charge, the NX was built in Cambridge, Ontario. The NX 350, a turbocharged model, was noted for its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling akin to 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 NX 350 F Sport variant stood out with unique exterior and interior features, including sport-bolstered seats and a new F Sport steering wheel. The interior design adopted a minimalist approach, with most functions integrated into a 14-inch touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly. However, physical controls for essential functions like stereo volume and temperature adjustment remained, and the electronic shifter was user-friendly.

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged on the TGNA-K platform, shared with several Toyota and Lexus models, offering a proven and reliable foundation. Measuring 4,739 mm in length, 1,854 mm in width, and 1,674 mm in height, the Venza was on the shorter side of the midsize crossover SUV segment. Its design featured excellent proportions, with a scalloped body side and a prominent tailgate with LED lighting. The Venza's interior was Lexus-like, with high-quality materials and an elegant layout. The dashboard was layered, and the touchscreen display was well-placed. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults. The Venza's design was more suited for urban environments than off-road adventures, with standard 18-inch alloy wheels.

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 km of pure electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport variant 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 experience. The NX's handling was impressive, though road and wind noise were more noticeable than expected. The NX was not designed for off-road use, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with electric motors at the rear axle providing all-wheel drive. The Venza offered Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes, and regenerative braking helped recharge the battery. The Venza's performance was sprightly, with agile handling, though it was not designed for aggressive cornering. The hybrid system was transparent in operation, and the Venza's range exceeded 800 km on a full tank of gas. The Predicted Efficient Drive program optimized battery charging based on driving habits and road conditions.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered more interior room, though it felt cozy from the driver's seat. Heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, enhanced comfort. The F Sport trim provided better seat bolstering, and rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations with rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, and the Thematic Ambient Illumination system offered 14 themes. Cargo space increased by 14%, with 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five, with good headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, and the cabin felt roomy, especially with the Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. Convenience features included an overhead console, power-adjustable front seats, and an electric parking brake. The Venza had ample storage, with four cupholders and bottle holders in each door. The lithium-ion battery pack was beneath the second-row seats, minimally impacting cargo capacity. The Venza offered 816 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,560 litres with the seats folded. The cabin was quiet, thanks to sound-blocking and absorbing materials.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. Standard features 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, including navigation and Intelligent Assistant technology. User Profiles and digital key capability were part of an option package. Additional technologies included a digital mirror and a 10-inch head-up display. The larger touchscreen collected fingerprints and reflections, and there was no tuning knob.

The 2022 Toyota Venza's hybrid system required no special attention, with a range exceeding 800 km on a full tank. The Venza LE featured an eight-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/HD Radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The XLE and Limited trims added a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and navigation. The Limited trim included a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and a digital rearview mirror. Toyota Connected Services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote Connect. The Venza's HUD was clear, even with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with 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 packages offered rear pedestrian detection, adaptive front lighting, and semi-autonomous parking assist.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured the Toyota Star Safety System, with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It had eight airbags, three-point seatbelts, and LATCH anchors for child seats. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. A blind-spot monitor and hill-start assist were standard, with parking assist and a surround-view camera on higher trims. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.