2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX was available in three versions: the NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid. This comparison focused on the gasoline models, specifically the performance-oriented F Sport version. The NX carried over Lexus's signature design elements, featuring sharp lines and a sculpted exterior similar to the smaller UX and larger RX models. Standard features included power-folding outside mirrors and 17-inch wheels. The F Sport variant added a sportier touch with a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels.

Inside, the F Sport models boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats, with options for a Circuit Red interior color scheme. The material fit and finish were top-notch, consistent with Lexus's reputation. The gauge cluster featured a sculpted metal-faced four-dial setup with a 4.2-inch multi-information display, though it appeared dated compared to competitors. The center stack, with its elevated climate-control buttons and rare CD player, also showed its age but remained functional. However, the layout limited small-item storage between the driver and passenger.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler required buyers to choose between the classic two-door or the more practical four-door model. Engine options included a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic. Four-wheel drive was standard, with multiple systems available depending on the trim level.

Our test vehicle was the new High Tide special edition, based on the four-door Sport S trim. It featured LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The standout feature was the Xtreme Recon package, which included a 1.5-inch suspension lift, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, and 35-inch BF Goodrich T/A KO2 tires. The High Tide model also came with a gasoline V6 engine with eTorque mild hybrid electrification, Selec-Trac full-time 4WD, and a host of optional packages, bringing the MSRP to $58,845.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The standard six-speed automatic transmission was adequate but lagged behind newer eight-, nine-, and ten-speed transmissions in smoothness. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds, a competitive time for its segment. While the powertrain could get noisy under hard acceleration, the ride was generally quiet. The F Sport models featured Active Sound Control, which electronically enhanced the engine note through the speakers, though some purists found this gimmicky.

Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The AWD system could transfer up to 50 percent of torque to the rear axle but lacked individual-wheel torque vectoring. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the AWD version had similar numbers but a combined rating of 24 mpg. The NX F Sport AWD also achieved 24 mpg combined. The NX had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed electronically limited to 124 mph. The adaptive-suspension system, based on the LC 500 sport coupe, offered up to 650 instantaneous compression and damping adjustments.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory $4,000 option. The Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was ideal for areas with frequent foul weather. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 21 mpg for the Wrangler Unlimited with the eTorque V6, but the Xtreme Recon Package modifications reduced this to an average of 16.8 mpg over a week of testing.

Driving a Wrangler was a unique experience, characterized by loud cabin noise, vague steering, a rough ride, and touchy brakes. Despite these traits, the Wrangler's off-road capabilities and immersive driving experience made it a beloved vehicle for many. The High Tide model, with its open-top and removable doors, heightened the sensory experience, making every drive memorable. However, the Wrangler's fuel consumption and lack of refinement were significant drawbacks.

The 2021 Lexus NX offered a well-styled and comfortable interior. The front seats provided ample room for adults, and the second-row seats accommodated two adults with sufficient legroom. Heated and ventilated seats were available. The NX featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. While engine noise could enter the cabin, road and wind noise were minimal, maintaining the typical Lexus quietness. However, the NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second-row seats and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats were available options.

Getting in and out of the 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was challenging, especially with its raised suspension. The manual height adjuster for the driver's seat required frequent readjustment. The seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery. The interior featured plastic and rubber materials, with some padded spots for comfort. The driving position was close to the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield, requiring some acclimation. Visibility was mixed, with excellent views in some areas and compromised views in others. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry and exit difficulties but found agreeable accommodations once inside. The Wrangler offered 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and 72.4 cubic feet with the seat folded down.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch screen available as part of the Navigation package. The system included HomeLink, predictive traffic information, and fuel station guidance. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the Lexus infotainment system was less user-friendly compared to competitors. Other standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Premium Audio system had eight speakers, with an upgrade to a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, had a 7-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system offered satellite radio, connected services, and a navigation system. Our test vehicle included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control with a new air filtration system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional extras included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top "Good" scores in all crash tests from the IIHS, a "Superior" rating for front crash prevention, and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus backed the NX with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group. The Safety Group added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors. The Advanced Safety Group included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Wrangler received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings in IIHS crash tests. The Wrangler's safety features were optional rather than standard, and its ratings suggested the need for extra caution while driving.