2022 Kia Sorento 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 review 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 excellent, as expected from Lexus. The gauge cluster featured a sculpted metal-faced four-dial setup with a 4.2-inch multi-information display. However, the design seemed outdated compared to newer models like the 2022 Hyundai Tucson. The center stack, with its elevated climate-control buttons and rare CD player, also showed its age, limiting open small-item storage between the driver and passenger.

The 2022 Kia Sorento, especially with the X-Line package, offered a stylish and rugged appearance. The X-Line treatment included rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, a lifted suspension, and robust roof rails. Our test vehicle, an SX Prestige with the X-Line package, featured all-wheel drive, Wolf Gray paint, Rust-colored leather, and a total MSRP of $45,310.

The Sorento's cabin exuded quality, with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim. The interior reflected rock-solid construction, with attention to design detail even in the base LX model. The second-row captain's chairs, standard from the EX trim, were heated in the SX Prestige X-Line. However, the third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, and the cargo space was limited to 12.6 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 75.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. The Sorento also featured a "smart" power tailgate that opened when the key fob was nearby.

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 multi-speed transmissions. The NX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds, with a relatively quiet ride except under hard acceleration. The F Sport models featured Active Sound Control, enhancing the engine note electronically through the speakers.

Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The AWD system could transfer up to 50% 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 model had a combined rating of 24 mpg. The NX 300 had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed of 124 mph. The adaptive-suspension system, based on the LC 500 sport coupe, offered a smooth and comfortable driving experience, though the steering was numb.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's base engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder, taking nearly 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. The recommended turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produced 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. With AWD, the turbo Sorento accelerated to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's suspension provided a blend of compliance and composure, with excellent body motion control and communication.

The X-Line package raised ground clearance to 8.2 inches, improving approach, breakover, and departure angles. However, the suspension lift was more for show than serious off-roading. The Sorento SX Prestige X-Line's fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg combined, but real-world testing showed an average of around 20.7 mpg.

The 2021 Lexus NX's interior was upscale and comfortable, with ample room for adults in the front and second-row seats. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding configuration. However, cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The NX featured a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and optional power-folding rear seats.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, with a 14-way power driver's seat and 10-way power front passenger seat in the SX Prestige. The second-row captain's chairs were heated, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the second row. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, with limited legroom and head restraints close to the rear window. Cargo space was 12.6 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 75.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. The Sorento also featured a "smart" power tailgate.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. The Lexus infotainment system was less user-friendly, relying on a touchpad. 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 a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, satellite radio, Kia Connect services, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base LX trim had an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration. The Sorento's infotainment system was intuitive, though the font style and colors might not appeal to everyone. The SX Prestige X-Line had a 12-speaker Bose premium surround-sound system and wireless smartphone charging.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including 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. The NX received top scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured Kia Drive Wise, with varying contents depending on the trim level. The SX Prestige X-Line included rear-seat reminder, Junction Assist, Blind View Monitor, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The Sorento received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.