2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

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, with its turbocharged engine, was a focal point of this review. The NX's design was unmistakably Lexus, 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, offering 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 interior adopted a minimalist approach, with most functions integrated into a 14-inch touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, particularly the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), was based on the SR5 trim level and added $3,330 to its price. This special edition featured retro body stripes, a heritage grille, bronze wheels, and badges, with a limited production of 4,040 units. The 4Runner lineup included various trims, with prices ranging from $51,050 to $66,220, plus a $1,930 destination charge. The 4Runner's design harkened back to truck-based SUVs of the past, with a rugged and enduring appeal. The interior, while featuring plenty of plastic, was solid and of quality, with controls that were easy to locate and use, even with gloves. The 4Runner's retro styling and practical interior made it a favourite among those seeking a traditional SUV experience.

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 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 in Canada. The NX 350 F Sport added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The NX 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, 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. 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 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. It offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The 4Runner had a part-time 4WD system, with a full-time 4WD system available on the Limited trim. Fuel economy was rated at 13.8 L/100 km in combined driving, with observed consumption of 13.9 L/100 km in the 40 ASE. The 4Runner excelled off-road, with 24.4 centimetres of ground clearance and features like Active Traction Control, a locking rear differential, and Crawl Control. On-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration, heavy steering, and a brake pedal that required careful modulation. The 4Runner was more at home in off-road environments, providing a sense of invincibility despite its limitations.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered more interior room for passengers and cargo, with a cozy and intimate dashboard design. The front seats were comfortable, with heated and ventilated options, and the F Sport trim provided better bolstering. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, and the cargo space increased by 14% to 643 litres, expandable to 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a power-down rear window, sunroof, and automatic windows for an immersive driving experience. The interior offered comfortable seats, with ventilated leather available on the Limited trim. The 40 ASE had SofTex artificial leather. Dual-zone climate control and numerous storage locations were provided, though some lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating was roomy, with good legroom and headroom, while the optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The cargo area offered 1,337 litres of space behind the second row, with additional storage cubbies and a 120-volt AC power outlet.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, Voice Assistant technology, and four connected service subscription plans. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems responded to natural commands, and a complimentary three-year trial of Drive Connect service was included. Additional technologies included a digital mirror, head-up display, and digital key capability. The 14-inch touchscreen collected fingerprints and reflections, and there was no tuning knob.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner had traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Upgrades included a navigation system and JBL premium sound system. The infotainment system's home screen displayed multiple functions, and voice recognition performed well. The 4Runner's technology was straightforward and user-friendly, appealing to those who preferred traditional controls.

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. Additional safety features included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured Toyota Safety Sense, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The adaptive cruise control provided smooth braking, but the lane-departure warning was intrusive. The 4Runner received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, with lower ratings for front passenger protection and rollover resistance.