2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus NX, which went on sale in December 2021, was available in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. It offered a range of trim levels, including base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury, with prices starting from $37,950 to $49,000, excluding the destination charge. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was highlighted in F Sport and Luxury trims. The NX's design was distinctly Lexus, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. It was larger than its predecessor, providing more space for passengers and cargo. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on decluttering, though some controls were integrated into a touchscreen, which could be challenging to use quickly. Despite some minor quality issues, the NX maintained high standards overall.

The 2023 Lexus GX, with its imposing spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, had a commanding presence. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint options. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs. The interior, however, was marred by an abundance of plastic, which detracted from its luxury appeal. The GX was a low-selling model, and Lexus focused on easy manufacturing to maintain its presence. Despite this, the GX offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h, with 239 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 39 mpg, and the NX 450h+, a 302-hp plug-in hybrid with 36 miles of electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The NX 250 had a 2.5-liter engine with 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, with FWD and optional AWD. The NX 350 F Sport added driving modes and an adaptive suspension, offering a sportier experience. The NX 350 Luxury provided a softer ride. The NX's handling was improved, though the engine lacked the refinement of German rivals. It wasn't suited for off-road use, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. While not impressive on paper, the V8 provided a satisfying driving experience. The GX had a 6,500-pound towing capacity but lagged behind other SUVs. Its fuel economy was poor, with an EPA estimate of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight affected its handling, but it remained predictable and controllable. The steering was vague, but the brakes were strong and reliable. The GX featured a Torsen limited-slip differential and a 4WD system, making it capable off-road.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered more interior space, though it felt cozy from the driver's seat. It was comfortable, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim provided better bolstering. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat. The NX had a 14% increase in cargo space, with 22.7 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus GX had ample cubby space, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. It retained hard buttons for controls, which was a relief for those averse to touchscreens. The center console lid was adjustable, and the second row was comfortable with captain's chairs or a bench seat. The third row was tight and best for emergencies. The GX had a side-hinged trunk door, offering 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with it folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows down.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with large touchscreen displays, voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen optional. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Voice Assistant, and various connected services. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The NX also offered a digital mirror, head-up display, and digital key capability.

The 2023 Lexus GX had a 10.3-inch touchscreen, an improvement over the old system, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was still present but unnecessary. The GX included Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. However, the tech felt dated compared to other Lexus models. The GX excelled in off-road capability, with a 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, and KDSS. The Off-Road Package added features like a multi-terrain monitor and crawl control.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. It also had blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection, adaptive front lighting, and semi-autonomous parking assist. A Vision Package offered additional safety features.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included ADAS features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. Despite its older design, the GX had modern safety technology.