2022 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since its last major overhaul in 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia maintained a classic exterior with a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches, avoiding the oversized trends seen in other SUVs. Its dimensions were substantial, with a height of 1,956 mm, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. The interior, however, felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in the modern SUV market. Despite this, the Sequoia's interior was built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity, making it suitable for families.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, having received a facelift in 2020. It was available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, with a hybrid model also on offer. The RX's exterior was aggressive, with sharp character lines and angular features that were eye-catching yet restrained. The F Sport models added performance-oriented styling with 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia. Inside, the RX offered luxury with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality materials, although the centre stack felt a bit dated. The F Sport models added sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. Despite some ergonomic challenges with the infotainment system, the RX provided a comfortable and quiet ride, making it a pleasant companion for long drives.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential, providing a reliable and durable powertrain. The Sequoia had a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms, making it a capable workhorse. Despite its weight of nearly 2,721.5 kilograms, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension. However, its fuel consumption was high, with ratings of 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 13.9 on the highway.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 horsepower. All RX models came with 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 hesitant acceleration. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and a Sport+ drive mode, but the differences in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, with a compliant ride that absorbed road imperfections. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was 12.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid offered improved efficiency with 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows with ample headroom and legroom. It featured three-zone climate control and a standard power moonroof. The cargo area was versatile, with 535 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and up to 3,401 litres with both rear rows down. The Sequoia also included practical storage solutions, such as a large centre console and door pockets.

The 2022 Lexus RX provided 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its standard two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models offered a 2/3/2 seating arrangement, but space was limited for anything beyond short trips. Cargo capacity varied, with 453 litres behind the second row in the standard RX, expanding to 923 litres with the second row folded. The three-row models 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 holders, although the rear seats did not fold completely flat.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the infotainment system felt clunky compared to competitors. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker JBL audio system and navigation. The Sequoia lacked modern powertrain advancements, sticking with a naturally aspirated V8 engine. However, it did feature LED lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available. The infotainment system had ergonomic challenges, with a lip obstructing access to icons. The touchpad was hypersensitive and frustrating to use. Despite these issues, the RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The RX also provided advanced climate control, premium audio systems, and connectivity through the Lexus App for remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also featured a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and a comprehensive set of airbags and safety systems.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by IIHS with optional triple-beam LED headlights and received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA.