2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trims from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350 F Sport and Luxury trims were highlighted for their distinct styling, including a unique mesh-pattern grille and sport-bolstered seats. The NX's design was unmistakably Lexus, featuring a spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. It was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more space for passengers and cargo. The interior aimed for minimalism, with a large touchscreen integrating many functions, though some controls were less intuitive.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, with a rugged appearance and a softer side profile. The design felt disjointed compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element and a high-mounted infotainment screen. The Bronze Edition introduced light grey fabric seats with a triangle motif, surrounded by Softex synthetic leather. The rear seating area had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but the third row was less accommodating, intended for occasional use by children.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. It provided a dynamic driving experience, especially in the F Sport trim, which included adaptive suspension and additional driving modes. The NX 350's acceleration to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds was credible, though the engine's sound was less refined than German rivals.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD. AWD was available via an electric motor on the rear axle. It reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The hybrid powertrain offered a quick initial response, but the engine's drone was noticeable under heavy acceleration. The ride quality was soft, with a focus on comfort rather than sportiness, and the cabin remained quiet on highways.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior room, though it felt cozy from the driver’s seat. It offered comfortable seating with heated and ventilated options, and rear passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities. The NX featured a panoramic sunroof and increased cargo space to 22.7 cubic feet, expandable to 46.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample storage options. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs, while the third row was less accommodating. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded, and 84.3 cubic feet at maximum capacity.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice recognition. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. The system supported cloud-based features and over-the-air updates, though the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch standard touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Navigation and a JBL audio system were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. It also offered blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trims added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. It included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a blind-spot monitor. The systems generally worked well but needed fine-tuning for smoother operation.