2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, stood out with its distinctive design, including a signature spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The interior aimed for a minimalist look, with a focus on decluttering, though some controls integrated into the touchscreen were not immediately intuitive. The NX provided more passenger and cargo space than its predecessor, with features like NuLuxe simulated leather and a panoramic sunroof. The F Sport trim added sporty elements such as a unique grille, 20-inch wheels, and sport-bolstered seats.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV styling cues. It featured a macho front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels. The interior was designed to avoid a school bus feel, offering ample storage and comfortable seating across all rows. The Sienna's flexible seating arrangements allowed for easy access and cargo loading, with a third-row bench that folded into the floor. The minivan's practicality was further enhanced by power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, making it convenient for families on the go.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivering 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport provided a dynamic driving experience with adaptive suspension and multiple driving modes, while the Luxury trim offered a more relaxed ride. Despite its improvements, the NX's turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of its German rivals, and its off-road capabilities were limited.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing with its hybrid powertrain, combined a 2.5-liter engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, the Sienna used a CVT for smooth power delivery. Its handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride. The Sienna's hybrid system delivered impressive fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 36 mpg for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD models. The battery pack was cleverly positioned under the front seats, contributing to the minivan's practicality.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered a cozy and comfortable interior, with features like heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim provided better seat bolstering, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and conveniences like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased by 14%, offering 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading, with measurements of 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna also boasted a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, along with ample storage and cupholders, made it a family-friendly choice.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. It featured large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based services. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a range of connected services. The NX also offered a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system and advanced driver assistance features, though some aspects, like the lack of a tuning knob, were criticized.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. While it lacked wireless connectivity for these features, it offered a range of telematics services and a rear-seat entertainment system. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a digital rearview mirror. The Sienna's technology package included a head-up display and a 1500-watt inverter for powering devices, enhancing its appeal as a family vehicle.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance technologies like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The system also offered Emergency Driving Stop System, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning. Premium trims added features like rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna earned top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. Tire-pressure monitoring and an inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire for added convenience.