2021 Lexus RX vs 2022 Kia Sorento

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was emblematic of the brand's styling cues. It featured a large grille, angular headlamps, and a shapely body with a floating roof. Inside, the RX offered sumptuous seating with perforated leather upholstery, although the center console was criticized for its dated appearance. The RX was available in five variants, including the performance-focused RX F Sport and the extended-body RXL with a third row. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with options for 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior was well-appointed, offering a range of features from power-adjustable seats to semi-aniline leather upholstery, though the infotainment system was noted for its functional yet outdated design.

The 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly with the X-Line package, presented a stylish and rugged appearance with features like matte-finish wheels and a lifted suspension. The test vehicle included extras like Wolf Gray paint and Rust-colored leather, bringing the total MSRP to $45,310. The Sorento's cabin exuded quality, with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim, and was noted for its rock-solid construction. The interior offered a 14-way power driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and second-row captain’s chairs. However, the third-row seating was cramped, making it more suitable for children. Cargo space was flexible, with up to 75.5 cubic feet available with the seats folded, and a smart power tailgate added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models offered 308 horsepower with a combination of a V6 engine and three electric motors. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was rated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while the hybrid models achieved up to 31 mpg city. The RX was praised for its comfortable cruising capabilities, with the F Sport model offering enhanced performance features like adaptive variable suspension. The RX could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a range of powertrains, with the base model featuring a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter engine. More powerful options included a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The turbocharged Sorento could accelerate to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's suspension was tuned for a balance of comfort and control, and the X-Line package improved ground clearance. However, real-world fuel economy was lower than EPA estimates, with an average of around 20.7 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered a functional interior with seating for five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL. Front and second-row seating provided ample space, while the third row was cramped. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The RXL offered even less cargo space with the third row in use. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior was described as luxurious, with a 14-way power driver’s seat and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The third row was tight for adults, making it more suitable for children. Cargo space was more generous than the RX, with 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 75.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Sorento featured a smart power tailgate for added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch screen and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The infotainment system was functional but dated, with a Remote Touch controller that took up console space. Wireless smartphone integration was not available.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and smartphone integration, though it required a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was intuitive but had a unique design that might not appeal to everyone. A 12-speaker Bose system was exclusive to the SX Prestige X-Line, and wireless charging was standard from the EX trim.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with Good marks in crashworthiness tests. It came with a suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0. However, it lacked the advanced hands-off driving technology found in some competitors.

The 2022 Kia Sorento included Kia Drive Wise, with features like a rear-seat reminder and Junction Assist. The SX Prestige X-Line offered a Blind View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist, a Level 2 semi-autonomous system. The Sorento was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.