2022 Lexus GX vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color. This model eradicated almost all chrome from the exterior, transforming the SUV into a sleek, dark presence on the road. However, it took less than a day for dust to settle on the Lexus, making it look worn and old. Despite its modern touches like the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, the GX's design felt dated, reminiscent of its first-generation predecessor from 2002. Inside, the cabin quality was impeccable, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, save for the faint roar of the V8 engine.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4, a product of a 2019 redesign, fit seamlessly into the current crossover vehicle design landscape. Its exterior featured angular flourishes and crisp lines, with expressive headlights and a distinctive grille giving it a playful yet aggressive look. The traditional Toyota fit-and-finish elevated the overall quality. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, anchored by an uncomplicated center stack. The touchscreen interface was well-positioned for minimal distraction, and the interior design included unique geometric patterns that tied various elements together.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, allowed the GX to tow up to 6,500 pounds. Despite its 5,126-pound curb weight, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with an EPA estimate of 16 mpg combined, requiring premium gas. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability, but the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain options. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy for FWD models was 27-28 mpg city/35 mpg highway/30 mpg combined, while AWD models achieved slightly lower figures. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for 217 net hp and an impressive 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway/40 mpg combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 hp, 40 mpg city/36 mpg highway/38 mpg combined, and up to 42 miles on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and available AWD with Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear outward visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short dimensions made it maneuverable in various environments, though the slow steering required extra effort. The interior featured comfortable seats and well-placed padding, but some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and triple-zone climate control. However, the rear seat access was challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, with limited cargo capacity of 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

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 second row folded. It had a healthy payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds and towing capabilities ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the model. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four, with ample legroom, hip room, shoulder room, and headroom in the front row. The second-row split-folding bench seat could accommodate five passengers in a pinch. The cabin featured numerous cupholders, bottle holders, and storage compartments, making it practical for everyday use.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a significant upgrade from previous models. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. A CD player and a Lexus app with smartwatch compatibility were also available. However, the placement of stereo controls below the off-roading controls was inconvenient. The infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and the voice recognition technology was quick and accurate. Standard Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras enhanced the GX's technology suite.

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 power outlets, an available 120-volt AC power outlet, and blue ambient illumination. A Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera system, and a 10-inch head-up display were also available on top trims.

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its age, included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services were also standard. However, the GX lacked more advanced safety technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems. There were no crash-test ratings available for the GX.

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