2022 Honda Passport vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented look with 20-inch wheels and unique styling elements. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt dated. The F Sport models added sporty touches, but the seats were less comfortable, and finding an ideal driving position was challenging.

The 2022 Honda Passport shared its platform with the Honda Ridgeline, Odyssey, and Pilot, resulting in a familiar design. The Passport's new styling aimed for a tougher look, with the TrailSport trim adding off-road appeal. The TrailSport featured unique 18-inch wheels, a roof rack, and skid plates, enhancing its SUV appearance. Inside, the Passport offered one of the largest interiors in its segment, with quality materials and thoughtful design. The TrailSport trim added orange stitching and ambient lighting, while the Touring trim provided additional luxury features. The Passport's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and cargo space, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid combined the V6 with electric motors for 308 horsepower. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of engine growl and sluggish acceleration. The F Sport models included performance dampers and adaptive suspension, but the drive modes offered minimal changes in handling. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, with a compliant ride and low road noise. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid offered improved efficiency at 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Honda Passport retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The V6 provided smooth and strong performance, with a combined fuel consumption rating of 11.3 L/100 km. The Passport's AWD system featured torque vectoring, enhancing its handling on twisty roads. Off-road, the Passport was capable but not on par with dedicated off-road vehicles. On-road, it offered a firm ride and athletic handling, with good steering feel and visibility. However, the brakes could become less confident on mountain descents, and a surround-view camera would have been beneficial.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models had limited space for passengers and cargo, with only 210 litres of cargo space behind the third row. The RX's cargo area was accessible via a power liftgate, but the load-in height was high. Interior features included a smartphone slot, adjustable cup holder, and a head-up display button, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Honda Passport provided easy access with large doors and a low step-in height. The interior featured comfortable seats with leather upholstery and heated options. The TrailSport trim added heated rear seats, while the Touring trim offered ventilated front seats. The Passport's interior was spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for rear passengers. Storage was plentiful, with a large centre console and door panel shelving. Cargo space was generous, with 1,430 litres behind the rear seat and 2,854 litres with the seat folded down, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available. The infotainment system was responsive but ergonomically unfriendly due to its positioning. The touchpad was hypersensitive and difficult to use, leading to frustration. The RX offered a range of tech features, including USB ports, smartphone integration, wireless charging, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity and personalization options.

The 2022 Honda Passport featured an 8-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The TrailSport trim added satellite radio, while the Touring trim included navigation and a premium audio system. The infotainment system was simple but lacked a stereo tuning knob. Apple CarPlay was preferred for navigation due to the clunky built-in system. Wireless smartphone charging was standard on all but the base trim, and the Passport's tech was functional but not advanced.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights but received four stars from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Honda Passport featured Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear-seat reminder. The Passport's safety tech was effective but not refined, with some functions being intrusive. The Passport received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for front passenger protection and rollover resistance, which earned four stars. The IIHS rated it highly, with an Acceptable rating for front-passenger protection in a small overlap collision.