2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX in size. Its design, characterized by a scowling face, was both distinct and familiar, maintaining a consistent style over the years. Despite its luxury badge, the NX shared its platform with the older Toyota RAV4, making it feel somewhat outdated in engineering. The F Sport Black Line edition added a sporty touch with a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint, contrasting nicely with the dark trim elements.

Inside, the NX Hybrid's design once seemed radical but had become familiar due to its lack of updates. The interior featured a stepped center console and sporty elements like an F Sport heated steering wheel and aluminum pedals. However, the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury, with plastic switchgear and trim. While some design aspects were appreciated, the overall feel didn't quite match the luxury expectations set by the Lexus brand.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, evaluated in Black Onyx, transformed into a sleek, monochromatic SUV with minimal chrome, creating a bold visual statement. Despite its modern touches, the GX's design remained reminiscent of its predecessors, with only subtle updates distinguishing it from earlier models. The interior, though slightly updated, retained a similar theme to the original GX, offering a high-quality cabin with smooth refinement and a quiet ride, thanks to its V8 engine.

The GX's cabin was crafted with care, featuring comfortable seating and physical controls, though some switchgear felt outdated. The Black Line Special Edition added NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner, enhancing the interior's appeal. However, accessing the rear seats was challenging due to narrow door openings, and the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, impacting overall practicality.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension in the Black Line package improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with seamless power delivery.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX 460 housed a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph. Its six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD system provided stability and a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. Despite its hefty curb weight and high drag coefficient, the GX managed a fuel economy of 16.8 mpg during testing. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System enhanced off-road capability and on-road stability, though the steering was slow and heavy.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid offered limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats were comfortable, with 10-way power adjustment and optional heated and ventilated features. However, rear visibility was compromised by the sloping roofline and thick pillars. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded, making it less practical than competitors.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and clear visibility, though the steering required effort. The interior featured comfortable seating and physical controls, but accessing the rear seats was difficult due to narrow openings. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with only 11.6 cubic feet available behind it. Folding the third row increased capacity to 46.7 cubic feet, and with the second row down, it offered 64.7 cubic feet, still less than some rivals.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and an awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot, the system felt dated, with text-heavy menus and basic graphics. The base audio system was underwhelming, lacking the quality expected from a luxury brand.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated touchpad. It featured Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition were highlights. The GX also included Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on standard Lexus Safety System+ features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. It also included blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, it missed some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, which might appeal to those preferring fewer driving aids.