Hyundai Tucson vs Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the Lexus UX and RX, featured a design that was both distinct and familiar. Its sharp edges and streamlined profile gave it a unique look, though the styling had remained largely unchanged over the years. The F Sport Black Line model added a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint, which contrasted nicely with the darker trim elements. Inside, the NX's design, once radical, had become familiar, with a stepped center console and a sporty feel. The F Sport package added features like a heated steering wheel and aluminum pedals, but the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson rode on a new platform and was offered in a long-wheelbase version in the U.S. Its design was modern, with a parametric grille hiding LED lights that formed a unique shape. The side profile mirrored the Hyundai Elantra, with a floating roof effect, while the rear featured distinctive LED taillights. The Tucson's design helped it stand out among compact SUVs. It offered various wheel designs and high-end trims with premium fascias and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain-resistant cloth seats and a spacious cabin, providing a sense of luxury at a competitive price point.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension in the F Sport model improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with quick acceleration. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport offered minimal differences in performance.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and a hybrid version with a combined 226 horsepower. The hybrid was more powerful and efficient, achieving 37 mpg combined. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road conditions, and the hybrid model outperformed competitors like the Ford Escape Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid. The upcoming plug-in hybrid promised even more power, with an estimated 261 horsepower.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats were comfortable, with 10-way power adjustment and available heated and ventilated options. However, rear visibility was compromised by the sloping roofline and thick pillars. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered a spacious interior, with more passenger volume than competitors like the CR-V and RAV4. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with higher trims offering more adjustments and heated seats. The rear seats provided ample legroom, and the cargo area offered 74.8 cubic feet of space. A dual-level cargo floor and hands-free liftgate added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt dated, and the base audio system lacked quality. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson boasted a strong set of standard tech features, including an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4.2-inch driver display. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen, though it required wired connections for smartphone integration. The system was responsive, with steering wheel controls and voice commands enhancing usability.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features through Hyundai SmartSense. Standard features included forward collision-avoidance assist and lane-keep assist, with options for blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Hyundai's warranty coverage added peace of mind.