2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid 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, unique front fascia, and sportier bumpers. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt dated. The F Sport models featured sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, comfort was compromised by less-than-pleasant NuLuxe seats and limited lumbar support, making it challenging to find an ideal driving position.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant styling departure from its predecessors, adopting a more assertive and truck-like appearance. The new model was longer and wider, with a muscular stance and modernized D-pillar taillights. The Hybrid Touring trim featured black roof rails, mirrors, and wheels, enhancing its sporty look. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid followed the design direction of the 2022 Civic and 2023 HR-V, with a premium feel and high-quality materials. The cabin offered ample space, with increased rear seat legroom and reclining rear seats for added comfort. The interior design was consistent with Honda's recent models, featuring a honeycomb grille surrounding the climate control vents and a standard one-touch power moonroof.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid added two electric motors for a combined output 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 lack of sporty dynamics and unimpressive acceleration. The F Sport models included performance dampers and adaptive variable suspension, but the drive modes offered minimal changes in driving dynamics. The RX excelled in driving comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing rough patches and providing a serene ride. 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 achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a new hybrid powertrain combining a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with improved responsiveness and a towing capacity of up to 450 kg. The CR-V Hybrid used a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offered four drive modes: Snow, Sport, Normal, and Econ. The updated Real Time AWD system could send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels. A new "B" shifter position allowed for increased regenerative braking, enhancing fuel efficiency. The CR-V Hybrid's fuel consumption was estimated at 6.0 L/100 km in the city and 6.9 on the highway, offering better efficiency than the non-hybrid models.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in the two-row version, with comfortable seating for four adults. The three-row L models had limited space for anything beyond groceries. Cargo space 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 upright, increasing to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a flat-bottomed cargo net.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid's larger exterior translated to more interior volume, with 1,028 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. The Touring model included a hands-free power tailgate, and all CR-Vs had wide-opening rear doors for easy access. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 mm, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The reclining rear seats offered eight positions, and headroom measured 970 mm in both rows. The CR-V featured a cubby for smartphones, eight cupholders, and a traditional console design for best-in-class storage.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available. The touchscreens were moved closer to the driver but remained ergonomically unfriendly. The infotainment system included voice commands and a touchpad, though the latter was difficult 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 allowed for remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with physical volume and tuning knobs, while the EX-L and Hybrid Touring trims had a 9-inch touchscreen. The CR-V Hybrid was well-equipped with USB ports, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, heated mirrors, and heated front seats. The Hybrid Touring trim included a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Sirius XM, HD radio, Wi-Fi capability, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system. Honda's smart navigation system optimized fuel efficiency based on the route.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, including 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 was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional triple-beam LED headlights and received four stars overall from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid included the Honda Sensing suite with improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New safety features included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA. It also featured new airbags, a stiffer structure, and increased visibility for enhanced safety.