2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX was a redesigned compact crossover SUV that came in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. It offered a range of 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, which was turbocharged, stood out with its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on decluttering, although some controls integrated into the 14-inch touchscreen were not immediately intuitive. The NX 350 F Sport variant added sporty elements like a unique grille, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and sport-bolstered seats, enhancing its athletic appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was a midsize SUV with a starting price of $51,435, including a $1,930 destination charge. It offered standard all-wheel drive in Canada and came in various trims, including the base Hybrid LE, XLE AWD with a Special Edition package, and the top Limited trim with a Platinum package. The Highlander Hybrid's design was over-styled, with exaggerated forms and a busy interior featuring large air vents and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The cabin's mismatched textures and tones, along with reflections from the display, made it visually overwhelming. Despite its appearance, the Highlander Hybrid's interior quality was questionable, with inexpensive-feeling controls and unlined storage areas. However, it provided a quiet ride on the road, thanks to Toyota's focus on noise reduction.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and an estimated 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, 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. The NX 350 F Sport variant added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The turbocharged powertrain provided a rewarding driving experience, with the F Sport variant offering a more dynamic and engaging ride. However, the NX's off-road capabilities were limited due to its ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. It featured standard all-wheel drive and offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes. The Highlander Hybrid prioritized fuel economy, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system learning driving habits to maximize efficiency. However, it returned 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres on the evaluation loop, higher than the estimated 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres. The Highlander Hybrid's driving experience was unexciting, with soft suspension tuning and a continuously variable transmission that lacked engagement. It was best suited for city and suburban driving, offering a compliant ride and a quiet highway experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior room for passengers and cargo, with a cozy and comfortable cabin. Heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, were standard in Canada. The F Sport trim offered better bolstering for the front seats, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The NX's panoramic glass sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space. Cargo space increased by 14%, with 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim and configuration. Most models featured standard second-row captain's chairs, with the third-row seat best suited for occasional use. The Highlander Hybrid offered three-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel in the Platinum package. The second-row captain's chairs provided comfort, while the third-row access was tight. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third-row seat, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 2,387 litres with the second-row seats down.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 9.8-inch touchscreen display as standard and a 14-inch screen as an option. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, Voice Assistant technology, and over-the-air software updates. The Mark Levinson premium surround system was available, providing excellent sound quality. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems allowed for natural voice commands, and the NX offered a complimentary three-year trial subscription to Drive Connect services. Additional technologies included a digital mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and a digital key capability.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, with upper trims featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system. The Limited trim had a 12.3-inch display, offering over-the-air updates, dual-device Bluetooth pairing, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Drive Connect service plan provided an Intelligent Assistant voice recognition system and cloud-based navigation. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system. The Toyota Audio Multimedia platform was user-friendly, though the graphics could be improved for better visibility.

The 2022 Lexus NX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included advanced driving assistance systems such as lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Oncoming Pedestrian Detection. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a safe stop if the driver became unresponsive. Additional safety features included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist technology.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard, and the Limited and Platinum trims added parking sensors with automatic braking. The Platinum trim also had a surround-view camera. The ADAS performed well, except for occasional confusion with lane markings. Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and collision notification, and the Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.