Toyota Highlander vs Lexus TX

The 2022 Toyota Highlander presented a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design, with flared fender arches and a distinctive third-row window that gave the spacious SUV a more compact appearance. Inside, the Highlander offered ample cabin space and clever storage solutions, making it ideal for families. The XSE trim, in particular, stood out with its bold red leather interior, navy blue exterior, unique styling elements, ambient lighting, and sport-tuned suspension. The Highlander lineup in Canada included trims such as LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum, each offering a range of features from standard AWD and an 8-inch touchscreen to premium audio systems and panoramic moonroofs.

The 2026 Lexus TX, on the other hand, was available with various packages depending on the powertrain, including Luxury, Ultra Luxury, Executive, and F Sport options. The TX featured a large grille, sharp bi-LED headlights, and rear LED lighting that spanned the vehicle's width. Inside, the TX offered three interior colour options and ambient lighting, though the material quality was not up to luxury standards. The redesigned door handles were a unique touch, but some might have preferred more attention to detail in the cabin. The TX's interior was spacious, with a third row that accommodated adults comfortably, and a range of features like heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, and a removable centre console.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, with no FWD option in Canada. The Highlander offered drive modes such as Sport, Normal, and Eco, along with AWD modes like Mud/Sand and Rock. The V6 engine provided better pickup once in motion, with a throaty exhaust note during overtakes. The Highlander could tow up to 2,268 kilograms and had a max payload of 775 kilograms. Its handling was commendable, with a sport-tuned suspension in the XSE trim that reduced body roll while maintaining comfort.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 came with a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid boosted output to 366 hp. The gas model featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid used a six-speed automatic. The TX 350 had standard electronically controlled full-time AWD, while the TX 500h used Lexus's Direct4 AWD system. Drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The TX 500h offered adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander provided up to 2,387 litres of cargo space with the second- and third-row seats folded. With the second-row seats in use, cargo space was 1,370 litres, and with all seats deployed, it offered 453 litres behind the third row. The Highlander featured deep cargo pockets, multiple storage compartments, and second-row captain’s chairs for added convenience. While the second row was spacious for adults, the third row was best suited for short trips.

The 2026 Lexus TX boasted three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row with a recline function. The second row had a one-touch button for easy third-row access, though folding the second row flat was more complex. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row flat, and 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. All TX models could tow up to 2,268 kilograms.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came with Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with hard buttons complementing the touchscreen. The XSE trim featured a wireless charging pad and additional USB ports. A larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL premium stereo system were available.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen, though some functions lacked polish. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but connectivity issues were noted. The TX required a subscription for in-dash navigation and other features. The back-up camera offered a clear view, and the Advanced Park system was available. The TX had seven USB ports and wireless charging, with an available 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander included the Toyota Safety Sense suite, featuring forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. All trims had blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highlander was rated a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Adaptive cruise control was effective once set up. The NHTSA rated the TX five stars for crash safety, while the IIHS gave it an "Acceptable" score for the small overlap front crash test on the driver’s side and "Good" for the passenger’s side.