2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

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. The interior boasted a minimalist design, with most functions integrated into a large touchscreen, although some users found it challenging to navigate. The NX 350 F Sport distinguished itself with sporty features like a unique grille, 20-inch wheels, and sport-bolstered seats, while the Luxury trim offered real leather and open-pore wood trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure in styling, presenting a more assertive and truck-like appearance. It was longer and wider than the previous model, with a muscular stance and modern LED lighting. The Sport Touring trim, in particular, featured black styling elements and 19-inch wheels. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid followed a design direction similar to the Civic and HR-V, with a premium feel and high-quality materials. The cabin was spacious, with thoughtful touches like contrast stitching and a honeycomb grille on the dash. The CR-V Hybrid's interior was designed for practicality and comfort, with ample storage and a focus on passenger convenience.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and achieving an EPA-estimated 39 mpg in combined driving. The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and an estimated 36 miles of electric range. 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 F Sport trim added driving modes and an adaptive suspension for a sportier experience, while the Luxury trim provided a more relaxed ride. The NX 350's performance was dynamic, though not as refined as some German rivals, and it was not suited for off-road adventures.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter engine with a two-motor hybrid system, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 115 mph and a towing capacity of 1,000 lbs. The CR-V Hybrid introduced a new Snow drive mode and an updated AWD system, enhancing its versatility. A "B" shifter position allowed for increased regenerative braking, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. The CR-V Hybrid offered a front-wheel-drive option, achieving 43 mpg city and 40 mpg combined, making it an efficient choice for eco-conscious drivers.

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 seat bolstering, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like air 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 Luxury trim featured ambient lighting with 14 themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid benefited from its larger exterior, resulting in increased interior volume. It offered 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 76.5 cubic feet with them folded. The CR-V Hybrid's rear seat legroom was generous, accommodating tall passengers comfortably. The cabin featured practical storage solutions, including a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders. The Sport Touring trim added a hands-free power tailgate and wide-opening rear doors for easy access.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring 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 10-speaker sound system or an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. The NX offered a digital mirror, head-up display, and digital key capability, though the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid catered to those who preferred physical controls, with a 7-inch touchscreen and physical knobs for volume and tuning. The Sport Touring trim featured a 9-inch touchscreen with additional features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and a smart navigation system. The CR-V Hybrid was well-equipped with USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-zone climate control, providing a user-friendly experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance 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. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting, while a Vision Package offered additional safety enhancements.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid included the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, with improvements for smoother operation. New features for 2023 included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid also offered a blind-spot information system, cross-traffic monitor, and parking sensors. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with structural enhancements and increased visibility for added protection.