2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since its last major update in 2008. Its exterior maintained a classic appeal with a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a substantial presence. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity, although it appeared somewhat dated compared to modern SUVs. The Nightshade Special Edition model, with its darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, brought a contemporary touch to the Sequoia's appearance.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid presented a more modern and minimalistic design. The RX 350h Luxury model, with its Iridium silver finish and 21-inch wheels, offered a luxurious feel without overt hybrid branding. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model stood out with its performance-tuned features, including a blacked-out grille and aggressive styling. Inside, the RX Hybrid adopted contemporary textures and detailing, with ambient lighting enhancing its appeal. The RX 350h Luxury model featured Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered a sportier interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum trim.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a robust 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a reliable and durable powertrain. The Sequoia's truck-based construction allowed for a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. However, its weight contributed to lower fuel economy ratings, with 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway for both RWD and 4WD models. Despite its heft, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities enhanced by its four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two distinct hybrid powertrains. The RX 350h featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, with an expected fuel economy of 36 mpg combined. It accelerated to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds, providing a balance of efficiency and performance. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and Direct4 AWD system, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. Despite its power, the RX 500h averaged 20.9 mpg during testing, falling short of its estimated 27 mpg. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension and rear-wheel steering enhanced its dynamic performance, making it a thrilling drive.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia provided ample storage, with a center console, glove compartment, and door pockets. Its cargo space was versatile, with 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 66.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 120.1 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid excelled in comfort, with the RX 350h Luxury model offering ten-way power-adjustable front seats, premium leather, and three-zone climate control. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model featured eight-way power-adjustable seats with larger bolsters and standard-grade leather. The RX Hybrid's battery placement under the rear seat provided excellent leg support but limited rear headroom. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with the seat folded, a significant improvement over the previous model.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system felt clunky compared to modern competitors. The Sequoia offered WiFi connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an optional premium audio package with JBL speakers. However, its powertrain lacked modern advancements like turbocharging or electrification.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The Lexus Interface offered cloud-based navigation, an Intelligent Assistant, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the system had limitations, such as single-screen menu viewing and reflection issues. The available head-up display with touch-sensing control pads added convenience but had visibility challenges with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS but offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. Toyota Safety Sense P included pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The Sequoia also featured a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Toyota's STAR safety system with stability control, traction control, and more.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist added convenience and safety. However, some features, like the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction, had limitations. The RX also offered Advanced Park, a semi-autonomous parking technology.