2022 GMC Yukon vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, particularly with its Black Onyx color, offered a bold look with nearly all chrome eradicated, transforming it into a sleek, dark vehicle. Despite the attempt to modernize its appearance with elements like the signature Lexus spindle grille, running lights, and triple-beam LED headlights, the GX still looked somewhat dated, almost akin to the first-generation 2002 GX 470. Inside, the GX maintained the high-quality craftsmanship Lexus is known for, with an overall quiet cabin thanks to minimal engine noise intrusion.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon made a statement with its extensive use of chrome, especially apparent in the Denali trim. The front of the Denali was dominated by a massive, multi-dimensional chrome grille reminiscent of an industrial cheese grater, exuding a commanding presence suitable for a full-size luxury SUV. The 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels of the test vehicle complemented the dark Redwood Metallic paint beautifully. The AT4 trim, with its off-road orientation, also had unique styling, including a dark grille and horizontal red recovery hooks. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious, tastefully crafted cabin with optional second-row captain’s chairs that made for easier third-row access.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. Despite its 5,126-pound curb weight, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. However, its off-road capabilities were noteworthy, partly due to the standard Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) and the optional Off-Road Package that included Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control. The GX also had a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, but its 16 mpg combined fuel economy on premium gas was less impressive.

On the other hand, the 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engine choices: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine producing 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon Denali, with its 6.2-liter V8, had an 8,200-pound towing capacity and provided a robust driving experience. The revised independent rear suspension contributed to a smoother ride and better handling, although slight bouncing was noted on rutted pavement. The optional air ride adaptive suspension added to the comfort, especially on highways.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a narrow, short, and tall design, making it maneuverable in various terrains. The interior offered comfort with 10-way power-adjustable seats and triple-zone automatic climate control. However, the third-row seat was tight and hard to access, with limited cargo space. With the third row folded, the GX provided 46.7 cubic feet of cargo space and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row down. Loading was complicated by the side-swinging tailgate, which was neither power-operated nor hands-free, and the elevated load floor.

The 2022 GMC Yukon improved significantly in terms of space with its redesign. The third-row legroom increased by over 10 inches to 34.9 inches, addressing previous complaints. Cargo space was also enhanced, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row. The second-row seats could fold flat, and power-folding options were available for both the second and third rows, making for convenient loading and unloading. The power-sliding center console in the Denali trim added extra storage. Overall, the Yukon provided a much more spacious and functional interior with 144.7 cubic feet of total cargo capacity.

Lexus updated the 2022 GX 460 with a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. However, the placement of the stereo controls and off-roading controls seemed counterintuitive. The system retained a CD player and had excellent voice recognition technology but lacked the intuitive placement and user-friendliness of newer systems.

The 2022 GMC Yukon excelled with its technology. The Denali featured a 15-inch multi-color head-up display and a 12-inch driver information center. The 10.2-inch touchscreen came with Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, among other features. A 14-speaker Bose audio system and a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch LCD HD touchscreens were also available, although the sound quality of the Bose system was not entirely up to expectations.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with its aged design, lacked crash-test ratings. It came standard with Lexus Safety System+ including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additionally, it had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and three years of complimentary Safety Connect services. However, more advanced driving aids and semi-autonomous features found in competitors were absent.

The 2022 GMC Yukon, equipped with GMC’s Pro Safety suite, included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Pro Safety Plus package added lane-change alert with blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist. The Denali also featured a Safety Alert Seat and an adjustable rear camera mirror. The NHTSA awarded the Yukon a four-star overall safety rating, including scores for front and side crash protection, and rollover resistance.