2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner retained an appearance that blended rugged functionality with an unmistakable sense of durability. Even after over a decade since its last complete redesign, the vehicle managed to retain its distinctive look. Although the 4Runner had undergone periodic updates, its overall design had stayed largely consistent, with some minor changes in infotainment and safety technologies setting apart the newer models from their older counterparts. The SUV's design was less about being attractive and more about showcasing its utility and toughness. It proudly flaunted a two-box body structure, highlighted by flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches that embodied balanced proportions and timeless styling.

Toyota offered the 4Runner in several trims: SR5, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro, with each level bringing unique features. Special editions like the Trail, Venture, and Nightshade were introduced to shake things up a bit, but the base price ranged from $36,950 to $50,570. The test model in this summary was the Trail Special Edition, starting at $38,565 for the rear-wheel-drive model, with an additional $1,875 for 4WD. Opting for added features like a premium audio system, cargo cover, and TRD skid plate brought the cost up to $43,729.

The Trail Special Edition was designed with adventure in mind, sporting dark gray TRD Off-Road wheels and a Yakima RoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket. Inside, it sported black cloth upholstery with tan stitching, all-weather floor mats, and a sliding rear cargo tray, all aimed at enhancing utility and comfort during off-road journeys. The interior featured hard plastic materials that, while not luxurious, were practical and easy to clean, fitting the vehicle's rugged mission. The dashboard was straightforward, equipped with large knobs and buttons, manual air conditioning, and a traditional ignition key, underscoring the SUV's simplicity and durability.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus NX struck a balance between modern elegance and sleek sophistication. Unveiled with a redesigned appearance in December 2021, it came in four models: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. Depending on the model, trims such as Premium, F Sport, and Luxury were available, with base prices ranging from $37,950 to $49,000.

Lexus designed the NX with its signature spindle grille and fresh block lettering on the tailgate for brand identification. Longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, the NX offered more space inside. Most models included synthetic NuLuxe leather, while the Luxury trim offered genuine leather and open-pore wood trim. For the first time, a panoramic sunroof was available.

The F Sport trim provided unique enhancements like a mesh-pattern grille, body-colored fender trim, 20-inch black wheels, and contrasting black mirrors. Inside, sport-bolstered seats, a black headliner, dark trim, and special instrumentation emphasized a sporty vibe. The new dashboard was minimalist, replacing numerous buttons and knobs with a streamlined layout. However, the integration of many functions into the 14-inch touchscreen made accessibility somewhat challenging. Physical controls for essential features like stereo volume remained, while the electronic shifter was easy to acclimate to. Despite some minor concerns, quality remained generally high, though the turn signal felt unexpectedly flimsy.

Taking the 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition to the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreational Area highlighted its off-road prowess. Thanks to late winter storms, the terrain was challenging, providing the perfect testing ground for the 4Runner. A-Trac, the off-road traction control system, showcased its utility particularly in tough conditions such as the Frame Twister, where it enabled the SUV to resume movement by braking spinning wheels, allowing the ones in contact with the ground to propel the vehicle forward.

Despite these capabilities, the 4Runner's 4.0-liter V6 engine generating 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 5-speed automatic transmission, felt sluggish and clumsy on regular roads. While excellent in off-road scenarios, the SUV's weight and age showed in daily driving, with less nimble handling and frequent fuel stops. EPA estimated a combined driving fuel economy of 17 mpg, corroborated by an observed 16.8 mpg during various driving conditions, including off-roading. This meant frequent visits to fuel stations, despite its 23-gallon tank allowing around 385 miles per fill.

The 2022 Lexus NX, emphasizing electrification and a new Lexus Driving Signature, delivered a different driving experience. The NX 350h hybrid achieved a combined 239 horsepower with an estimated 39 mpg, while the NX 450h+ PHEV with a 302-hp output provided 36 miles of electric range before reverting to hybrid mode.

The NX 350 F Sport featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generating 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, facilitated by an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. Sporting both Normal, Sport, Eco driving modes and additional Sport S, Sport+, and Custom modes in the F Sport, the NX felt agile and composed. Lexus's claim of 6.6 seconds to 60 mph felt credible in both F Sport and Luxury trims, though the F Sport, equipped with adaptive suspension and 20-inch tires, provided better handling on winding roads. However, it didn't mask noise from the road and wind as well as expected.

In contrast, the base NX 250’s 2.5-liter engine with a 203-hp output appeared less lively. Its CVT and option for AWD made it practical, though less exhilarating. Lexus estimated an average of 25 mpg in combined driving for the NX 350, consistent with test observations of around 25.5 mpg in the Luxury trim and 22.2 mpg in the F Sport trim.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, while providing excellent off-road capabilities, had practical concerns, particularly for shorter individuals finding it challenging to climb aboard due to its height. Inside, however, it offered comfort with supportive seats and sufficient legroom, complemented by good visibility, air conditioning vents, and USB ports in the back. The sunroof, combined with power windows and a retractable rear window, gave an airy feel akin to open-top vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler.

Though missing a third-row seat, our test vehicle featured a useful sliding cargo deck handling up to 440 pounds, making it ideal for adventurous lifestyles. The cargo space was impressively large, at 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanding to 89.7 cubic feet with seats folded. Paired with a robust roof rack, it was designed to accommodate various outdoor needs.

Functionally, the 2022 Lexus NX provided more room, though the new dashboard design created a cozy, intimate feel. Both seats and storage options were well-designed, offering pleasant driving and riding experiences. Equipped with heated/ventilated seats and padding on key interior surfaces, the NX ensured comfort. The Luxury trim brought in aesthetic touches like Thematic Ambient Illumination, displaying 14 nature-inspired themes, enhancing the cabin's atmosphere.

Rear passengers enjoyed ample space, rear air conditioning vents, heated cushions, and USB charging ports. The panoramic sunroof extended over the back seats, adding to the spacious feel. Lexus announced a 14% increase in cargo space, bringing it to 22.7 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.9 cubic feet with seats folded down. While less than the 4Runner, the storage was well-utilized for a compact crossover.

Technologically, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition was somewhat sparse. Useful features like the windshield wiper de-icer and cargo area AC power outlet stood out. The infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. Additionally, it provided a year’s Safety Connect subscription and a three-month trial of WiFi Connect.

Premium audio upgrades added dynamic navigation, enhanced voice recognition, and Destination Assist concierge services for three years. While the software had sophisticated features, the physical layout with shortcut buttons and knobs made it practical for drivers, especially in challenging conditions where gloves might be necessary.

The 2022 Lexus NX, on the other hand, featured advanced technology aimed at attracting younger, tech-savvy consumers. With the Lexus Interface, the NX offered large touchscreens, natural voice recognition, music streaming services, and cloud-based features. The 9.8-inch touchscreen came standard, with an optional 14-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Voice Assistant technology, and various subscription plans for connected services were standard across both versions.

A 10-speaker system was typical, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium system. However, issues like screen glare and fingerprint collection slightly marred the tech experience. The navigation system included offline capabilities, while Voice and Intelligent Assistant systems allowed natural language commands for various functionalities.

The NX’s tech advancements included Drive Connect with three-year complimentary subscriptions, User Profiles for driver preferences, digital keys, and additional features like a digital rearview mirror and head-up display. However, without a dual-action knob for volume and tuning, some usability issues persisted.

Safety was a mixed bag for the 2021 Toyota 4Runner. Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) offered adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. However, features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning were notably absent. This was a significant drawback given its three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA and a marginal rating for small overlap frontal impacts from IIHS, reflecting the model's age and design limitations.

Conversely, the 2022 Lexus NX excelled in safety with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0). Featuring Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, Curve Speed Management, and an Emergency Driving Stop System, it showcased cutting-edge safety technologies. The system’s ability to detect and respond to unresponsive drivers was particularly notable.

Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic warning, Safe Exit Assist, and an adaptive lighting system. Premium trims added semi-autonomous parking, panoramic view monitoring, and front cross-traffic alerts, enhancing overall safety and making the NX a leader in this respect.