2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

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 features seen in many modern 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. Inside, the Sequoia's design felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place compared to the larger displays in contemporary SUVs. However, the interior was built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and comfort for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid presented a more modern and minimalistic design. The RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance models shared a similar appearance to the standard RX 350, with subtle differences like the absence of hybrid badges. The RX 500h stood out with its performance-oriented styling, featuring a blacked-out grille and matte-black 21-inch wheels. The interior of the RX was sleek, with a focus on contemporary textures and detailing. The RX 350h Luxury model boasted Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered a sportier all-black interior with artificial suede and dark grey aluminum trim. The RX's design was more compact, with a wheelbase stretch that reduced rear overhang, giving it a smaller appearance despite being similar in size to its predecessor.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a robust 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a reliable and durable powertrain. The Sequoia's truck-based construction allowed for a payload capacity of up to 608 kg and a towing capacity of 3,221 kg. However, its weight of nearly 2,721.5 kg contributed to its high fuel consumption, with ratings of 18.5 L/100 km in the city and 13.9 on the highway. Despite its heft, 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.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two distinct hybrid powertrains. The RX 350h featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, with a combined fuel consumption rating of 6.5 L/100 km. It accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 7.5 seconds. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, on the other hand, utilized a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, generating 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. It achieved 100 km/h in about 6 seconds but had a higher fuel consumption of 8.6 L/100 km. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension and Dynamic Rear Steering system provided a more engaging driving experience, while the RX 350h offered a quieter and more fuel-efficient ride.

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, a power moonroof, and heated front seats as standard. The Sequoia's cargo space was generous, with 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,401 litres with both the second and third rows down. The interior storage was practical, with a large centre console, glove compartment, and door pockets.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable and luxurious interior, especially in the RX 350h Luxury trim with its ten-way power-adjustable front seats and premium leather. The RX 500h F Sport Performance offered sportier seating with eight-way power adjustment and larger side bolsters. The RX's battery placement under the rear seat resulted in excellent leg support but limited headroom. Cargo space was improved, with 838 litres behind the rear seat and 1,308 litres with the seat folded, matching the standard RX 350 and surpassing the previous RX 450h.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. While it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, the system's clunky operation was a drawback. The Sequoia Platinum and TRD Pro models added navigation and a 14-speaker JBL audio system. Despite its technological shortcomings, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety features like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, the Lexus Interface, which required subscription services for full functionality. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offered features like cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant. However, the system had some usability issues, such as limited screen views and reflections. The RX also offered a head-up display with dual-function touch-sensing control pads, though these were problematic with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS but was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, including features like pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. It also had a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and a comprehensive set of airbags and safety systems.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. It also included Proactive Driving Assist, which helped maintain safe distances and recharged the battery through regenerative braking. The RX offered additional features like Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park, though these were not tested during the review.