2023 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and launched in December 2021, offered four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. With base prices ranging from $37,950 to $49,000, excluding a $1,075 destination charge, the NX was built in Cambridge, Ontario. The NX 350, available in F Sport and Luxury trims, featured a distinctive Lexus design with a spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The F Sport trim stood out with a unique grille, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and sport-bolstered seats, while the interior adopted a minimalist design with a large touchscreen controlling many functions.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia, with its bold styling inspired by the Toyota Tundra, presented a more commanding presence. The Capstone trim level featured an upscale interior with leather, wood, and metallic finishes, dominated by a 14-inch infotainment system. Prices ranged from $59,895 for the base SR5 to $79,895 for the Capstone, including a $1,595 destination charge. The Sequoia offered off-road capabilities, especially in the TRD Pro trim, but its ground clearance and angles were less capable than the previous model. The interior was luxurious, but some materials reminded drivers of its pickup truck origins.

The 2022 Lexus NX emphasized electrification, offering the NX 350h with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ with 302 horsepower. 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 350 F Sport added driving modes and an adaptive suspension, providing a dynamic driving experience. The NX 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with fuel economy estimates of 25 mpg combined. However, it lacked off-road capabilities with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a hybrid system, delivering 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. It offered a maximum tow rating of 9,520 pounds and improved fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings of 20 mpg with 4WD. The Sequoia featured multiple driving modes and an adaptive rear air suspension, but its ride quality varied depending on the mode. The steering was slow, and the regenerative braking system felt unresponsive, affecting the driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior space, with a cozy dashboard design and comfortable seating. The F Sport trim offered better bolstering, while rear passengers enjoyed ample room and amenities. Cargo space increased to 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The NX featured a panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting in Luxury trim.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia excelled on highways, with comfortable front seats, a premium sound system, and a triple-zone climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs lacked sliding capability, affecting third-row comfort. Cargo space was limited, with only 11.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 86.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The hybrid powertrain compromised overall utility, but the Sequoia offered practical features like an adjustable cargo shelf.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and cloud-based features. The system offered a 10-speaker sound system or an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. The NX featured a digital mirror, head-up display, and connected services, though the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia featured a new Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, user accounts, and an Intelligent Assistant. The system allowed Bluetooth pairing for two devices, but some functions were inconsistent. The Capstone trim included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Lexus NX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. It also offered blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. It also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors with automatic braking. While crash test ratings were unavailable, the Tundra’s high IIHS rating suggested strong safety performance.