2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV with a spacious interior, offering a choice of front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive. It came in S, SE, or SEL trims, with prices ranging from $22,995 to $33,045, plus a $1,195 destination charge. The Taos featured a turbocharged engine and a variety of factory options, including a Basecamp package for off-road enthusiasts. The 4Motion upgrade altered the driving dynamics with a dual-clutch transmission and independent rear suspension. The Taos's styling was consistent with Volkswagen's lineup, featuring 19-inch wheels and Cornflower Blue paint. However, the interior was criticized for its hard plastic materials, though the SEL trim offered two-tone leather and upscale dashboard materials.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was notable for its blacked-out exterior, available in Black Onyx, Starfire Pearl, or Nori Green Pearl. Despite its modern touches, the GX's design appeared dated, resembling earlier models. The interior, however, maintained Lexus's reputation for quality, with smooth materials and a quiet cabin. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with prices from $56,700 to $66,210. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the Premium trim, started at $60,535. Despite its age, the GX offered a refined driving experience, though its steering and brake pedal were noted as less appealing.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The engine's torque delivery was delayed, leading to sudden power surges. The 4Motion AWD system paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission offered spirited performance but suffered from erratic shifting. The standard eight-speed automatic transmission provided smoother driving but was limited to front-wheel drive. The Taos's handling was praised for its road feel and responsive steering, though its ground clearance was less than some competitors. The Taos SEL 4Motion achieved 28 mpg in combined driving, with a tested average of 27.1 mpg.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its weight, the GX accelerated to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds and could tow up to 6,500 pounds. A six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD system provided power distribution, while the Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System improved stability. The GX's fuel economy was rated at 16 mpg combined, with a tested result of 16.8 mpg. The GX excelled off-road, especially with the optional Off-Road Package, but its steering and brake pedal were less refined for on-road driving.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a spacious interior, with adjustable front seats and ample rear legroom. The SEL trim included heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Cargo space varied with the drive system, offering up to 65.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded in front-wheel-drive models. The Taos also featured a center pass-through for skis.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and comfortable seating, with 10-way power-adjustable front seats. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The GX's third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with a maximum of 64.7 cubic feet. The side-swinging tailgate was cumbersome for loading.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came with Digital Cockpit instrumentation and a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. Features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Car-Net services. The SEL trim added navigation and a BeatsAudio system. However, the infotainment system's user experience was criticized for its complexity.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The GX also offered a CD player and a Lexus app. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the voice recognition technology was praised.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered IQ Drive safety technologies, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The SEL trim included additional features like rain-sensing wipers and road sign recognition. The Taos's reverse automatic braking was overly sensitive but could be disabled. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured Lexus Safety System+, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also included blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors. Crash-test ratings were not available.