2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

When Lexus redesigned the 2022 NX, it hit dealerships in December 2021 in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. This lineup offered a range of options from the base model to the plug-in hybrid. Prices ranged from $37,950 to $49,000, excluding a $1,075 destination charge. The NX was built in Cambridge, Ontario, showcasing various trims including Base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury.

Sporting a striking spindle grille and styling details akin to the Lexus IS sports sedan, the NX was unmistakably a Lexus. The new model featured block lettering on its tailgate, a minimalist interior, and improved NuLuxe simulated leather for most trims. Genuine leather and open-pore wood trim adorned the Luxury models, and a panoramic sunroof was a fresh addition.

The F Sport model stood out with a unique mesh-pattern grille, body-colored fender trim, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and black mirrors. Inside, it was defined by sport-bolstered seats, a new F Sport steering wheel, unique instrumentation, and dark interior trims like alloy pedals and scuff plates.

While previous versions had dashboards cluttered with numerous buttons and knobs, the 2022 redesign aimed for a minimalist look. This included a 14-inch touchscreen that integrated many functions, though it proved somewhat confusing to use initially. Despite these streamlined changes, quality remained generally high, with the exception of a somewhat cheap-feeling turn signal.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4, a model introduced as a tiny alternative to big SUVs in 1996, evolved over five generations into a sales leader. The 2022 version, revamped in 2019, fit well within the crossover vehicle design norms, but upon closer inspection, elements like wheel arch flourishes and crisp body lines stood out. The RAV4’s angular headlights, snub-nosed grille, and grinning fascia created an expressive, anthropomorphic face. The exterior was bolstered by Toyota’s traditional fit-and-finish.

Inside, the RAV4's layered dash showcased contrasting textures and colors, and a user-friendly center stack. The touchscreen was positioned for minimal distraction, while the interior design featured a circuit-board-inspired pattern linking various cabin elements. The Adventure-trim test model featured 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels, adding to its rugged yet sophisticated look.

The 2022 Lexus NX underscored electrification with its NX 350h hybrid and NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, boasting 239 hp and 302 hp respectively. A significant feature was Lexus Driving Signature, achieved through a lower center of gravity and reduced curb weight, enhancing the vehicle's dynamics.

The NX 350 had a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generating 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. This model featured different driving modes, such as Normal, Sport, and Eco, with the F Sport adding Sport S, Sport+, and Custom modes.

The turbocharged engine offered a rewarding drive with a responsive and athletic feel. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds for this model, which seemed credible during testing. However, the engine sounded less refined compared to German rivals, and while handling impressed, there was more road and wind noise than expected despite noise-dampening efforts.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain choices. The gasoline model, tested here, used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, with front-wheel drive standard and AWD optional. The FWD model achieved 30 mpg combined, while AWD versions managed 28-30 mpg.

The RAV4 Hybrid, combining a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, produced 217 hp and offered 40 mpg combined fuel economy. The RAV4 Prime, the most powerful, delivered 302 hp and 94 MPGe combined, with a 42-mile pure electric range.

The gasoline Adventure AWD model in testing handled everyday driving with ease, delivering smooth power without turbo lag, thanks to its naturally aspirated engine. The eight-speed transmission paired well, offering quick kickdown during aggressive acceleration. While the RAV4's handling retained its car-like feel, the MacPherson struts and multi-link suspension ensured a comfortable and responsive ride.

The interior of the 2022 Lexus NX promised increased passenger and cargo space. The revamped dashboard created a cozy feel, with comfortable heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. F Sport trim added better bolstering tailored for energetic driving.

Rear passengers enjoyed ample space, air conditioning vents, heated cushions, and USB ports. Practical storage solutions existed through both rows, and a panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat. Cargo capacity increased by 14% to 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 46.9 cubic feet with folded rear seats.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified by the EPA as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet when folded flat. It boasted a payload of 1,050-1,230 pounds, depending on configuration, and varying towing capacities across different trims. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road models were notable, towing up to 3,500 pounds.

The RAV4's interior was spacious, comfortably seating four adults, with abundant legroom in the front row. The rear could accommodate five passengers when needed. The cabin featured numerous cupholders, bottle holders, a roomy center console, glove compartment, and covered storage, providing ample storage solutions.

Advanced Technology was a key player in the 2022 Lexus NX. The new Lexus Interface infotainment system aimed to attract younger digital natives with its large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with an optional 14-inch screen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple connected services, and OTA updates.

Standard was a 10-speaker audio system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround system. The Voice Assistant responded to natural commands, and the new Intelligent Assistant offered enhanced functionality. A three-year trial of Drive Connect provided cloud-based navigation and other connected services.

Other tech options included a digital mirror and a 10-inch HUD, although the latter struggled under polarized sunglasses. The larger touchscreen collected fingerprints and reflections, and the absence of a tuning knob was a drawback.

Likewise, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 boasted impressive technology across trims. Standard features included a 7-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa. Higher trims upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL system with navigation.

The RAV4 Prime stood out with five USB ports, auxiliary outlets, ambient illumination, a Qi-compatible charging pad, and an available bird’s-eye view camera system with a 10-inch HUD.

Lexus equipped the 2022 NX with the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, incorporating features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, Oncoming Pedestrian Detection, and Curve Speed Management. An Emergency Driving Stop System ensured the SUV safely halted if the driver became unresponsive.

Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, Safe Exit Assist, and adaptive front lighting on Premium trims. Optional Vision Package enhancements included a panoramic view monitoring system and lane-change assist.

Toyota's 2022 RAV4 came with the Star Safety System, offering stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. LATCH anchors, child-guard locks, and Safety Connect with a one-year subscription added layers of protection.

The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite provided adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign recognition. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking assist. The 2022 RAV4 achieved high ratings, becoming an IIHS Top Safety Pick and earning NHTSA’s five-star rating.