2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a blend of luxury and sportiness. With base prices ranging from $37,950 to $49,000, excluding destination charges, the NX was built in Cambridge, Ontario. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, stood out with its distinctive design elements like the spindle grille and block lettering on the tailgate. The F Sport trim added sporty touches such as a mesh-pattern grille and 20-inch gloss black wheels. Inside, the NX embraced a minimalist approach, moving away from the button-heavy dashboard of its predecessor. However, the integration of many functions into the 14-inch touchscreen sometimes made it challenging for drivers to quickly access features. Despite some ergonomic issues, the NX maintained high-quality materials, though some components like the turn signal felt less premium.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, while practical and offering great value, appeared somewhat outdated compared to newer crossovers. Its design, reminiscent of "dad jeans," was functional but lacked modern flair. The Santa Fe featured a handsome grille and flush-mounted headlights, but its overall silhouette seemed soft and less defined. Despite its size, the Santa Fe was a two-row midsize crossover, offering ample space for five passengers and a large trunk. Inside, the Santa Fe prioritized practicality with a center console filled with physical controls, making it easy to use. The rear seats provided generous legroom, and the cargo space was impressive, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet when folded.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid delivering 239 horsepower and an estimated 39 mpg in combined driving. The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid boasted 302 horsepower and a 36-mile electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport added adaptive variable sports suspension and performance dampers, enhancing its sporty character. The NX 350's acceleration to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds was credible, with observed fuel economy varying between the F Sport and Luxury trims. While the NX excelled in handling, it wasn't designed for off-road adventures, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid combined a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 44.2-kW electric motor, producing 226 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It achieved impressive fuel economy estimates of 33 mpg city, 30 highway, and 32 combined. The hybrid powertrain was managed by a six-speed automatic transmission, and the HTRAC AWD system provided flexibility in power distribution. While not the quickest, the Santa Fe Hybrid offered a quieter and more composed ride, with excellent noise insulation and suspension. Handling, steering, and braking were adequate for a vehicle focused on comfort and practicality.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior room, though it felt cozy from the driver's seat. Comfort was a priority, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel available. The F Sport trim offered better bolstering for spirited driving. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased by 14%, offering 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid featured a shift-by-wire, push-button transmission, freeing up space below the center stack. The center stack itself was filled with well-labeled physical controls, making it user-friendly. Rear passengers benefited from manual sunshades and 40.8 inches of legroom. The Santa Fe Hybrid's cargo space was generous, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet when folded. Heated and ventilated front seats with real leather upholstery were available, enhancing comfort.

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. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen optional. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with various connected services. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems offered advanced voice control, and the NX included a digital key capability.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid came with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, offering Over-The-Air map updates and dynamic voice recognition. The infotainment system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though both required a wired connection. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provided essential driving information. The Hyundai digital key allowed for remote start and locking/unlocking via a smartphone app. The Limited trim featured a 12-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems. Notable features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System ensured safety in case of driver unresponsiveness. Additional safety features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid prioritized safety with features like a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor. Standard safety equipment included adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance, and blind-spot collision avoidance. The Santa Fe Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, highlighting its commitment to passenger safety.