2023 Jeep Wrangler 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 appearance with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sportier exterior 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 like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the comfort of the seats was lacking, with limited lumbar support and difficulty finding an ideal driving position.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler, in contrast, embraced a rugged, no-nonsense design with its boxy shape and iconic seven-slot grille. Available in two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for customization with removable doors and a fold-down windshield. The design was simple and functional, with options for various top configurations to enhance the open-air experience. The interior was practical, with easy-to-clean materials and a straightforward layout. However, storage space for small items was limited, and the rear seat was a tight fit. The Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including a powerful V8 in the Rubicon 392 model, and excelled in off-road capabilities with features like solid axles and optional differential lockers.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined the 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 lack of engine growl and sluggish acceleration. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and additional drive modes, but the differences in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, providing a smooth ride and isolating road noise. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 using 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the hybrid RX 450h offered better efficiency at 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including a standard Pentastar V6 with 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 hp and 295 lb-ft, and a 3.0-litre Ecodiesel V6 with 260 hp and 442 lb-ft. The Rubicon 392 model featured a 6.4-litre V8 with 470 hp and torque, providing exhilarating performance. The Wrangler excelled off-road with solid axles, optional differential lockers, and various transfer case options. However, the 392 model's brakes and steering were less refined, requiring early braking and offering vague steering feedback. Other Wrangler trims had better-suited brakes and steering. The Wrangler's off-road prowess was unmatched, but on-road comfort was less refined compared to competitors like the Ford Bronco.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered a spacious interior with 2,826 litres of passenger volume in the two-row version, 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 provided thoughtful interior features like a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a flat-bottomed cargo net. However, the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the load-in height was high due to the sporty bumper design.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's interior was practical but limited in storage space. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seat was a tight fit, especially in the four-door models. The Wrangler offered 2,050 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, slightly less than the Ford Bronco. The Wrangler's removable tops provided versatility, with options like the Sky One-Touch power soft top for easy open-air access. Charging points were plentiful, with USB ports and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch version available on higher trims. The touchscreen's positioning was ergonomically unfriendly, and the touchpad controller was hypersensitive and unintuitive. Despite these challenges, the RX offered a range of tech features, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect system, with an 8.4-inch version available. The system initially appeared complex but was intuitive once familiar. The Wrangler included off-road pages with detailed information, as well as Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. While not overly tech-heavy, the Wrangler offered practical features like a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories.

The 2022 Lexus RX came standard 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, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control standard across all models. Advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard only on higher trims or available as options. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS, with some trims receiving Poor ratings for headlights. The NHTSA gave the Wrangler four stars for frontal crash tests and three stars for rollover resistance.