2022 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX was available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, with the RX 350 offering a gas powertrain and the RX 450h providing a hybrid option. The RX 350 seated five, while the L models accommodated up to seven passengers. The RX's design, refreshed in 2020, maintained a modern and sporty aesthetic, standing out with its aggressive exterior styling among competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X5. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented look with features like 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia, enhancing the RX's high-fashion appeal. Inside, the RX's cabin exuded luxury, with F Sport models adding sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the centre stack felt dated, and the seats, particularly in the F Sport, lacked comfort and adjustability.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market since its 1996 debut, had evolved significantly over five generations. By 2022, it was a mature crossover, often topping sales charts in Canada. The RAV4's exterior design blended in with contemporary crossovers, but closer inspection revealed angular wheel arches and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and a straightforward centre stack. The interior design included unique geometric patterns that tied the cabin together, and the vehicle offered ample space for passengers and cargo. The RAV4's design and build quality reflected Toyota's commitment to delivering a reliable and stylish vehicle.

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 a V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 hp. 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 lackluster engine note and sluggish acceleration. The F Sport models included adaptive suspension and additional drive modes, but the differences in handling were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, making it a pleasant companion for long drives. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was 12.2 L/100 km city, 9.0 highway, and 10.8 combined, while the RX 450h hybrid offered improved efficiency at 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 RAV4 offered three powertrains, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with front-wheel drive on the base model and all-wheel drive on higher trims. The RAV4 Hybrid used a similar engine paired with an electric motor for 217 combined hp, while the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid boasted 302 hp and an electric-only range of up to 68 kilometres. The RAV4's performance was smooth and responsive, with car-like handling and a comfortable ride. Fuel economy for the gasoline model ranged from 8.7 to 9.5 L/100 km city, while the hybrid achieved 5.8 L/100 km city. The RAV4 Prime offered impressive efficiency at 5.7 L/100 km city in hybrid mode and 2.5 Le/100 km combined in electric mode.

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 shared the same wheelbase, resulting in limited space for the third row. Cargo capacity in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The three-row version offered 210 litres with all seats up, increasing to 1,657 litres with both rear rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the cargo area's load-in height was high.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, provided up to 1,059 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. The RAV4's payload capacity ranged from 499 to 511 kilograms, and it offered towing capabilities of up to 1,588 kilograms on Trail and TRD Off-Road models. Inside, the RAV4 was spacious and comfortable for four adults, with ample legroom and storage options. The front seats featured dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat on higher trims, while the second-row bench seat could accommodate a fifth passenger if needed.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch version available on higher trims. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the screen's positioning was ergonomically challenging, and the touchpad interface was frustrating to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options, such as remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a 9-inch version available on higher trims. Standard tech included a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The RAV4 Prime offered advanced technology, such as five USB ports, a 120-volt AC power outlet, and a 10-inch colour head-up display. Upper trims also included a wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera system, and digital rear-view mirror.

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

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota's Star Safety System and Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. In Canada, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.