2023 Lexus RX vs 2024 Hyundai Venue

The 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, marked its fifth generation with a design that was shorter in height but broader and longer in wheelbase compared to its predecessor. Despite maintaining the same overall length, it offered more cargo space than the 2022 model, though still less than some rivals. The RX appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines, with a floating roof effect created by the down-sloping black trim on the rear pillar. The front featured a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, a modern mesh texture, and an elevated hood. The rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper.

Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. Quality materials like NuLuxe artificial leather and genuine leather were available, along with real wood and aluminum trims. The RX 350, RX 350h, and RX 500h models offered various trims, with Canadian pricing starting at $58,650. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid was anticipated but not immediately available.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue, available in Essential, Preferred, and Ultimate trims, ranged from $23,581 to $28,081 in Canada. The Venue Preferred trim was recommended for its enhanced exterior and added features. The test model, in Ecotronic Grey, had a mature appearance despite its jaunty design. Inside, the Venue featured hard plastics but maintained a stylish look with striped seat piping and white dashboard trim. The digital instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen were highlights, offering a high-quality feel for a small SUV.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 AWD demonstrated a 0-100 km/h time of approximately 7.3 seconds. The F Sport 3 trim, with adaptive suspension, provided a more secure ride compared to the Executive trim. Fuel economy was estimated at 9.9 L/100 km, with test results slightly higher.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was equipped with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. Weighing between 1,200 and 1,250 kilograms, it was paired with a CVT. The Venue excelled in urban environments with nimble handling and good visibility. However, its suspension struggled on rough roads, and the engine became noisy under pressure. The Venue lacked AWD but offered 17 cm of ground clearance. Fuel economy was rated at 7.5 L/100 km, with test results at 7.8 L/100 km.

The 2023 Lexus RX offered comfort with features like semi-aniline leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport 3 trim had sportier seats with NuLuxe leather. The back seat provided good leg support but limited headroom for taller passengers. Cargo space was 838 litres with seats up and 1,308 litres with seats down.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue had decent comfort with manual seat adjustments and heated front seats. The back seat was cramped for three, with limited storage and no air vents. Front storage was adequate, and cargo space was 528 litres, expanding to 902 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Drive Connect offered voice recognition, and user profiles could be set up. The Mark Levinson sound system required tone adjustments for optimal sound. A head-up display was available but had visibility issues with polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue had an 8-inch touchscreen with modern graphics and simple operation. It included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The six-speaker sound system was adequate but could be improved for younger consumers.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and new features like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were new semi-autonomous features. The system had some issues with HUD visibility and curve-speed reduction technology.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Blind-spot monitoring was added in the Preferred trim. The Venue received Good ratings in crash tests from the IIHS and a four-star rating from the NHTSA.