2022 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a unique blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX models. Its design, while not traditionally SUV-like, maintained a familiar Lexus aesthetic. The F Sport Black Line variant added a sporty flair with a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint. Inside, the NX Hybrid's interior design, once radical, had become familiar due to its consistency over the years. The F Sport package added sporty elements like aluminum pedals and blue-stitched NuLuxe upholstery, but the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban embraced Chevrolet's full-size truck design language, sharing styling cues with the Tahoe and Silverado 1500. Its imposing presence was accentuated by a tall hood and large wheels. The RST trim, with its Cherry Red Tintcoat and 22-inch wheels, offered a sporty look. Inside, the Suburban provided a spacious cabin with options ranging from comfortable to luxurious, depending on the trim. The RST featured Jet Black leather seats with Victory Red stitching, but the predominantly dark interior could feel a bit somber despite its spaciousness.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more about efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension in the F Sport model improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drive modes offered minimal impact on performance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine choices: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six with 277 horsepower. The RST test vehicle featured the powerful 6.2-liter V8, providing effortless acceleration and a towing capacity of 8,300 pounds. The independent rear suspension improved ride quality and cargo space, while the 10-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth power delivery.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid struggled with interior space, offering the least front headroom and rear legroom in its segment. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats felt cramped. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility, though exterior mirrors helped compensate.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in space, accommodating up to nine passengers with the optional front-row bench seat. It boasted 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 144.7 cubic feet with seats folded. The second-row seats slid for added flexibility, and a power-sliding center console offered additional storage. However, its size made maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with a cumbersome Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt dated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. The base audio system was underwhelming, lacking the quality expected from a luxury brand.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered impressive tech features, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and Google built-in on LT trims and above. The Infotainment 3 System with an 8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 10.2-inch version on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot were standard, while the Bose audio system varied by trim, providing decent sound quality.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, though it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban featured the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. It received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control and a head-up display, enhancing its safety credentials.