2022 Toyota Venza 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, while the F Sport variant added a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels, among other sporty touches.

Inside, the NX F Sport boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats with optional Circuit Red interior, alongside more traditional color schemes. The interior materials were top-notch, with a familiar gauge cluster featuring a 4.2-inch multi-information display. However, the center stack design appeared dated, with an elevated climate-control button setup and limited small-item storage. Despite these quirks, the NX maintained a high level of functionality and comfort.

The 2022 Toyota Venza, reintroduced after a hiatus, rode on the proven Toyota New Global Architecture K (TGNA-K) platform. Measuring 186.6 inches in length, 73.0 inches in width, and 65.9 inches in height, the Venza had a modern exterior design with a deeply scalloped body side and a prominent tailgate featuring LED lighting. The Venza's nose had a significant overhang, making it more suited for urban environments than off-road adventures.

Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like elegant interior with high-quality materials. The layered dash and well-placed touchscreen display added to the cabin's appeal. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats provided ample space for three adults. The available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass roof on the Limited trim enhanced the sense of roominess. Convenience features included an overhead console with LED map lights, an electric parking brake, and multiple storage options, making the Venza a practical and comfortable choice for families.

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 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 feature unnecessary.

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 variant had similar figures but a slightly lower combined rating of 24 mpg. 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, provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience, though the steering lacked feedback.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency and performance. Drivers could choose electric-only (EV) mode for short distances or select Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, while the main charge came from the gas engine.

The Venza offered sprightly performance and agile handling, similar to the Camry, thanks to its shared wheelbase. The taller body and higher ground clearance made it less suited for aggressive cornering, but it excelled as a midsize family hauler. The hybrid system's transparency and the Predicted Efficient Drive (PED) program, which optimized battery charging based on driving habits, contributed to the Venza's impressive fuel efficiency and overall performance.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an upscale interior with comfortable front seats and adequate second-row legroom. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding configuration. Despite some engine noise, the cabin remained quiet, typical of a Lexus. 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 Venza seated five in two rows, with comfortable bucket seats in the front and a 60/40-split folding second-row bench. Both rows provided good headroom and legroom, with 45.2 inches of hip room in the second row. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass roof. Convenience features included an overhead console with LED map lights, an electric parking brake, and multiple storage options. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack, located beneath the second-row seats, had minimal impact on cargo capacity, offering 28.8 cubic feet behind the second row and 55.1 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. Toyota's efforts to insulate the cabin paid off, resulting in a quiet and serene driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch screen available as part of the Navigation package. The system included HomeLink, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. 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 featured eight speakers, with an optional Mark Levinson 14-speaker system available on higher trims. The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app allowed users to control various functions remotely, and a 10-year subscription to Lexus Enform Services Connect was included.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no special attention, making it ideal for those without access to charging infrastructure. The Venza's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen on LE and XLE models, with a 12.3-inch screen on the Limited trim. The system supported Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth. The Limited trim added a nine-speaker JBL audio system, intelligent touch-capacitive controls, and navigation. Toyota Connected Services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote Connect, and WiFi Connect. An Advanced Technology Package for the Limited trim offered a head-up display, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a digital rearview mirror.

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, with no recalls reported. Lexus backed the NX with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, which included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, smart stop technology, and a rearview camera. The Venza also featured eight airbags, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, and LATCH lower anchors for child safety seats. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, lane tracing assist, and road-sign assist. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.