2023 Toyota Venza 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 look. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented appearance with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sportier design elements. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt somewhat dated. The F Sport models featured specific badging and sporty interior touches, but comfort was compromised by less-than-ideal seating and limited lumbar support.

The 2023 Toyota Venza, on the other hand, offered a sleek and sculpted design that stood out in the midsize crossover SUV segment. Its coupe-like shape, with a tapering rear roofline, gave it a distinctive look that could easily be mistaken for a luxury vehicle. The Venza's interior borrowed elements from the Toyota RAV4 but elevated them with nicer materials and details, approaching a Lexus level of luxury. The dashboard and centre stack were well-integrated, and the cabin featured more soft-touch surfaces. Overall, the Venza was attractively styled, both inside and out, making it one of the best-looking vehicles in Toyota's lineup.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h added 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 driving dynamics. The engine note was more akin to a four-cylinder, and acceleration was unimpressive. The F Sport models included performance dampers and adaptive variable suspension, but the drive modes offered minimal changes in handling. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, with a compliant ride and isolated 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 achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system, producing 219 horsepower. A CVT sent power to the front wheels, while a separate electric motor powered the rear wheels for standard AWD. The Venza's acceleration was respectable, reaching 100 km/h in just over 7.5 seconds. The hybrid system provided seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power, and the regenerative braking system was smooth. The Venza prioritized ride comfort over sporty handling, with light steering and adequate maneuverability. Its ride quality was smoother than the RAV4 Hybrid but not as plush as a Lexus.

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 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 up, 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 Toyota Venza provided ample front seat space, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The rear seats were spacious, with abundant legroom and foot room. Cargo capacity was limited to 816 litres, significantly less than competitors like the Honda Passport and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The Venza excelled in holding smaller personal items, with a wireless phone charger, well-sized cupholders, and a deep centre armrest bin.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available. The infotainment system, though responsive, was ergonomically unfriendly due to its positioning. The touchpad was hypersensitive and unintuitive, leading to frustration. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, wireless charging, and a premium audio system.

The 2023 Toyota Venza featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an 8-inch touchscreen on the base LE trim and a 12.3-inch display on higher trims. The new infotainment system was an improvement, with sharp graphics and a logical menu structure. The Venza XLE and Limited trims included a virtual navigator and a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. It was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights and scored four stars overall from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota Venza received five stars from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. It featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added parking sensors, a surround-view camera, and a digital rearview mirror.