Toyota Venza vs Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the Lexus UX and RX crossovers, showcased a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, giving it a distinctive yet familiar look. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX's design had not evolved significantly over the years, maintaining its unique identity. The F Sport Black Line variant featured 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 NX's interior design, once considered radical, had become more familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury wood trim. The F Sport model included features like a heated steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and NuLuxe upholstery, but the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury.

The 2022 Toyota Venza, reintroduced with a modern design, rode on the proven Toyota New Global Architecture K platform. Its exterior featured excellent proportions, with a deeply scalloped body side and an eye-catching tailgate with LED lighting. The Venza's design was more suited for urban environments than off-road adventures. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like elegance with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The cabin was spacious, with supportive front seats and ample room for three adults in the rear. The available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass roof added to the sense of space, making the Venza's interior feel open and inviting.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on fuel efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from zero 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 drivetrain struggled with a heavy right foot. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport offered minimal differences in performance.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The Venza balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency and performance. It offered electric-only operation for short distances and drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, and the Venza's handling was agile, though not designed for aggressive cornering. It provided a comfortable ride, ideal for family travel.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with rear legroom being the worst in its segment. The front seats, however, offered excellent support and comfort, with standard 10-way power adjustment. The sloping roofline and thick rear pillars affected rear visibility, but large exterior mirrors helped compensate. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. Power-folding second-row seats and a power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2022 Toyota Venza accommodated five passengers comfortably, with good headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 45.2 inches of hip room, making it suitable for three adults. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the Star Gaze panoramic glass roof. Convenience features included an overhead console, power-adjustable front seats, and an electric parking brake. The Venza offered 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 55.1 cubic feet with it folded. The cabin was designed for quiet travel, with sound-blocking materials throughout.

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 Toyota Venza's hybrid setup required no special attention, offering a seamless driving experience without charging infrastructure concerns. The Venza featured an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa capability. The Limited trim added a nine-speaker JBL audio system, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and intelligent touch-capacitive controls. Toyota Connected Services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote Connect, and WiFi Connect. An Advanced Technology Package offered a head-up display and rain-sensing wipers.

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 also standard.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It had eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver aids, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.