2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid was positioned between the Lexus UX and RX, featuring a design that was both sharp and familiar. Its streamlined profile and distinctive face set it apart from traditional SUVs, yet the styling had remained largely unchanged over the years. The NX shared its platform with the previous-generation Toyota RAV4, which was common for Lexus as Toyota's luxury division. Despite its luxury branding, the NX lagged behind the RAV4 in engineering advancements. The F Sport Black Line model showcased a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint, which contrasted nicely with the darker trim elements. Inside, the design was once radical but had become familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional wood trim. The Black Line treatment added features like an F Sport heated steering wheel and NuLuxe upholstery, but the material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, introduced as Hyundai's SUV flagship, replaced the Santa Fe XL and stood out with its elegant and striking design. It featured distinctive lines, a prominent grille, and sculpted wheel arches, creating a visually appealing profile. The continuous strip of glass around the tailgate gave the impression of a floating roof. LED headlights and taillights added to its signature look. Inside, the Palisade offered a polished and elegant interior with a horizontally arrayed screen and high-quality materials. The second row provided ample space with either a bench or captain's chairs, while the third row was spacious enough for adults on short rides. The fit and finish were near-luxury levels, and the Calligraphy model was particularly stunning with its Steel Graphite paint and black interior.

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. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid was not a performance vehicle, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph. The focus was more on fuel efficiency than excitement, and the drivetrain struggled with a heavy foot, leading to a clunky transition between electric and gasoline power. The sport-tuned suspension in the Black Line package improved handling, making the NX agile in corners while maintaining a comfortable ride. However, the steering was numb, and the NX felt less tight compared to newer models based on the Toyota New Global Architecture. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport offered minimal differences, with Eco mode further blunting acceleration.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade came with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It offered a smooth power delivery without turbo lag, and the engine's baritone rumble was a pleasant bonus. The Palisade's fuel efficiency was estimated at 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway for FWD models and slightly lower for AWD models. Weighing between 4,127 and 4,387 pounds, the Palisade handled nicely with its independent suspension and stabilizer bars. It could tow up to 5,000 pounds with trailer brakes. The Palisade's performance was more than adequate for family use, offering a balance of power and comfort.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats due to thick rear pillars. Front-seat legroom was generous, and the seats offered excellent support. The dashboard and door sides rose high, providing easy access to controls but potentially not suiting those seeking a traditional SUV feel. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. A power-folding second row and power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space, offering comfortable seating throughout. The third row was accessible and equipped with cupholders, while the second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and headroom. The front row featured extensive storage options. Cargo space was generous, with 18.0 cubic feet behind the third row, 45.8 cubic feet with it folded, and 86.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down. An underfloor storage compartment added extra space. The Palisade's gear selector was a compact shift-by-wire setup, and controls were logically arranged. A dual-panel sunroof improved the ambiance in upper trims, which also included luxury features like Nappa leather upholstery and a hands-free liftgate.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. However, it lacked a touchscreen, relying on an awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad. The system felt dated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased advanced technology, with a standard display audio system on lower trims and a high-resolution touchscreen with Harman Kardon audio on upper trims. The infotainment system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, HD Radio, and satellite radio. Multiple USB ports and power outlets were available throughout the cabin. Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system offered remote engine start and vehicle monitoring. Upper trims featured a digital instrument cluster and head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were newly standard for 2021. The only notable omission was a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive list of safety features, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It included seven airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance, and more. Upper trims offered additional features like Highway Driving Assist and ultrasonic rear occupant alert.