2022 Toyota RAV4 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 sportier touches like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels.

Inside, the NX F Sport boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats with optional Circuit Red interior color. 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. Despite these quirks, the NX offered a functional and comfortable interior, albeit with limited small-item storage.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a continuation of a 2019 redesign, maintained its position as a sales leader in the SUV market. While its exterior design blended in with other crossovers, closer inspection revealed angular wheel arches and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. The traditional Toyota fit-and-finish elevated the overall quality of the exterior.

Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, anchored by a straightforward center stack. The touchscreen interface was positioned for minimal driver distraction. Unique design cues, like a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern, tied the cabin together. The Adventure-trim test vehicle showcased 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels, adding to its distinctive look.

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 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 model featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically, 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% 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 AWD models had similar figures. 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 up to 650 instantaneous adjustments, enhancing the driving experience. The NX featured three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, each affecting throttle response and power-steering assist.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains. The gasoline-only model, tested for this review, had a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with FWD and optional AWD. Fuel economy for FWD models was 27-28 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined, while AWD models achieved slightly lower figures. The RAV4 Hybrid used a similar engine paired with an electric motor, producing 217 combined net hp and achieving 41 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 40 mpg combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid, with 302 hp and a larger battery pack, offered 40 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 38 mpg combined, plus 42 miles of electric-only range.

Our test vehicle, a gasoline Adventure AWD model, delivered smooth power without turbo lag. The eight-speed transmission provided quick kickdowns for demanding acceleration. The RAV4's car-like handling, aided by MacPherson struts and a multi-link suspension, made it popular among drivers. AWD models featured Multi-Terrain Select tuning and dynamic torque vectoring, enhancing cornering and handling. The gasoline AWD models also had a fuel-saving rear-driveline disconnect for improved efficiency.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an upscale interior with comfortable front seats and adequate legroom in the second row. Heated and ventilated seats were available. The NX offered a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Despite some engine noise, the cabin remained free from road and wind noise, typical of Lexus vehicles. However, the NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row 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.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The RAV4 had a healthy payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds, depending on the configuration. Towing capacity varied by trim, with LE, XLE, XLE Premium, and Limited grades towing up to 1,500 pounds, while Adventure and TRD Off-Road models could tow up to 3,500 pounds. The RAV4 Hybrid and Prime models had towing capacities of 1,750 and 2,500 pounds, respectively.

Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with a comfortable front row and a roomy center console. Cupholders and bottle holders were abundant, and additional storage options included a glove compartment and covered storage beneath the center armrest. The middle seat in the second row was less desirable but still usable.

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 HomeLink, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Navigation package added Lexus Enform Destination Assist, a personal concierge service. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. Optional features included a moonroof, heated steering wheel, and a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system. The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app allowed users to control various functions remotely, and Lexus Enform Services Connect provided maintenance alerts.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system with navigation. The RAV4 Prime featured additional technology, including five USB ports, two 12-volt/120-watt auxiliary power outlets, an available 120-volt/1,500-watt AC power outlet, and blue ambient illumination. A Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera system, and a 10-inch color head-up display were also available.

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 safety features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA and came with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota’s Star Safety System, which included vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. The RAV4 also had LATCH child-seat anchors, child-guard locks, and eight airbags. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, standard on all models, included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, lane-tracing assist, and road sign assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking assist with automatic braking. The RAV4 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.