2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350 F Sport and Luxury trims were particularly noted for their distinctive design elements, such as the unique mesh-pattern grille and sport-bolstered seats in the F Sport. The NX's interior was minimalist, with a focus on decluttering, though some controls integrated into the touchscreen were not immediately intuitive. Despite this, the NX maintained high-quality materials, though some elements like the turn signal felt less premium.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling update, presenting a sleeker and more modern appearance. The HR-V's design changes included a lowered beltline and simplified detailing, with the Sport trim featuring unique black alloy wheels and a more aggressive grille. Inside, the HR-V offered a comfortable cabin with thoughtful design elements, such as the metal honeycomb grille and sculptural center console. The EX-L trim provided a premium feel with perforated leather seats and dual-zone climate control, making it feel more upscale than its price might suggest.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivering 302 horsepower. The NX 350, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, generated 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The NX 350 F Sport featured additional driving modes and an adaptive variable sports suspension, enhancing its performance on winding roads. However, the NX's turbocharged engine was not as refined as some German competitors, and the SUV was not designed for off-road use.

The 2023 Honda HR-V came with a single powertrain option: a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. The HR-V's updated CVT included a Step-Shift function, and drivers could choose from Normal, Snow, ECON, and Sport modes. The HR-V's new suspension and widened tracks contributed to a fun driving experience, though it was not overpowered. While the HR-V was quieter than its predecessor, it remained noisier at higher speeds. The HR-V's performance was enjoyable, but it lacked the powertrain options available in some competitors.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered increased interior space, though it felt more intimate from the driver's seat. The NX provided comfortable seating, especially in models with heated and ventilated front seats. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat. The NX's cargo space increased to 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, while a subcompact SUV, felt comfortably sized with a well-thought-out interior. The HR-V's fastback design slightly reduced rear-seat headroom, but cargo space remained competitive at 24.4 cubic feet with the seats up and 55.1 cubic feet with them folded. The HR-V's rear seats offered a higher seating position and created a nearly flat floor when folded. Passenger volume varied slightly between trims, with the EX-L gaining some interior space.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. It featured large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. The NX offered a 9.8-inch standard touchscreen, with a 14-inch upgrade available. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Voice Assistant technology, and various connected service subscription plans. The NX also offered a 10-speaker sound system, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system as an option.

The 2023 Honda HR-V's infotainment system was updated with a tablet-style touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims, with wireless versions available on the EX-L. The HR-V featured a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and a 7-inch color touchscreen, with a 9-inch display on the EX-L. The EX-L also included a wireless charging pad and an eight-speaker audio system. The HR-V's technology package was comprehensive, with features like Smart Shortcuts and WiFi capability.

The 2022 Lexus NX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included advanced driver assistance systems like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The NX also featured standard blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety features were available with Premium trim and the Vision Package, enhancing the NX's safety credentials.

The 2023 Honda HR-V included the Honda Sensing suite as standard across all trims, offering features like adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, and lane-keeping assist. New for 2023 were traffic-sign recognition and traffic jam assist. The HR-V's safety features were generally unobtrusive and provided peace of mind. While the 2023 HR-V had not yet been crash-tested, the 2022 model received high safety ratings, and updates for 2023 aimed to improve its safety performance.