2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, evolved from its original "cute ute" status to a mature and sophisticated vehicle. Its exterior design, while blending in with the current crossover trends, featured distinctive angular flourishes and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. The interior boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, complemented by unique design cues like a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern. This attention to detail, combined with Toyota's renowned fit and finish, elevated the RAV4's overall quality and appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, presented a more modern and sophisticated design. It was shorter in height but broader and longer in wheelbase than its predecessor, offering more cargo space despite appearing smaller due to its design elements. The RX's exterior featured a well-integrated spindle-style grille, upswept body sides, and a light-blade taillight design, creating a fresh yet familiar look. Inside, the RX offered a thoroughly modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The quality materials and available features like NuLuxe artificial leather and real wood trims underscored the RX's luxury status.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered both FWD and AWD options. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a similar engine with an electric motor for 217 net hp, achieving impressive fuel economy ratings. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid stood out with 302 hp and the ability to run 68 kilometres on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and features like Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring enhancing its performance.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350, tested with AWD and a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine, delivered 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. While it offered less horsepower than the previous V6, it provided better torque and fuel economy. The RX 350 Executive trim displayed occasional torque steer and body motion, while the F Sport 3 trim, with its adaptive suspension, offered a more secure ride. The RX 350 AWD achieved an estimated fuel economy of 9.9 L/100 km, with real-world results slightly higher. The turbo engine, despite its less refined sound, provided satisfying performance.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered ample cargo space with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, making it versatile for various needs. Inside, the RAV4 provided comfortable seating for four, with plenty of space and storage options. Features like dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat added to its appeal.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 provided a comfortable and luxurious interior, with the Executive trim offering premium leather upholstery and advanced seat adjustments. The F Sport 3 trim featured sportier elements like NuLuxe simulated leather and Dark Graphite trim. Both models offered roomy back seats, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. The RX's cargo space improved over the previous generation, with 838 litres available with the seats up and 1,308 litres with them folded, though still not class-leading.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker audio system as standard. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and additional features like a bird’s-eye view camera and a head-up display. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology with multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient lighting.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the new Lexus Interface multimedia system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreens. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The system allowed for user profiles and streaming through embedded apps. The RX also offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, digital instrumentation, and advanced features like a digital rearview mirror and head-up display. However, the inability to view multiple data panels simultaneously was a drawback.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota's Star Safety System and Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included advanced driving assistance systems like lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring. New features like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance were added, along with semi-autonomous technologies like Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist. While impressive, some features like curve-speed reduction and adaptive cruise controls had room for improvement.