2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Genesis GV80

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 Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. Inside, the NX aimed for a minimalist look, with a decluttered dashboard and a focus on quality materials, though some controls integrated into the touchscreen were not immediately intuitive.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, complemented by a stately design. The Prestige trim featured 22-inch alloy wheels and a matte Brunswick Green paint job, adding to its elegance. Inside, the GV80 continued the dark green theme with quilted leather seats and a dash split by horizontal air vents, offering a luxurious and spacious environment. The infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, was part of a well-equipped interior that included a two-spoke steering wheel and a range of luxury touches.

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, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, generated 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The F Sport trim added adaptive variable sports suspension and performance dampers, enhancing its athletic feel. However, the NX was not designed for off-road adventures, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Genesis GV80, available only in all-wheel drive, offered a choice between a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 375-horsepower turbo 3.5-liter V6. While not particularly nimble, the GV80 excelled at highway driving, with smooth power delivery and an electronically controlled suspension that adjusted to road conditions. The GV80's performance was more about comfort and refinement than outright speed, with a focus on providing a quiet and smooth ride.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided a comfortable interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim offered better bolstering for spirited driving, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations and practical storage space. The NX's cargo space increased to 22.7 cubic feet behind the back seat, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 impressed with its luxury features, including heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a tri-zone climate control system, and a 21-speaker stereo system. The GV80 offered a third-row option, though legroom was limited. Cargo space was generous, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GV80 also boasted a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10-speaker sound system, and optional upgrades like a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. The NX also offered a digital mirror, head-up display, and a range of connected services.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment system had a learning curve, it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not wirelessly. The GV80 also offered remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to park itself without the driver inside, and a range of connectivity options to keep devices charged and connected.

The 2022 Lexus NX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance features. New technologies included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The NX also featured blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was packed with standard safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The GV80's Highway Drive Assist provided a hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, though it struggled in certain lighting conditions. The GV80 received high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, underscoring its commitment to safety.