2022 Lexus NX vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2021 Toyota Highlander was anything but mundane, standing out among midsize SUVs with its distinctive design. Its wide headlights, long hood, and assertive trapezoidal grille made a statement, while the character line along its side echoed the sporty profile of the Supra. The taillights, reminiscent of a Lexus model, added to its unique appearance. The Highlander XSE trim introduced a sportier front end and suspension tuning, though it was more about appearance than performance. Inside, the Limited trim offered a luxurious experience with high-quality materials, including tan leather seats and wood details, emphasizing comfort and convenience over sportiness.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus NX showcased a refined and simplified design, with a signature spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The NX was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, offering more space for passengers and cargo. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique grille, black mirrors, and sport-bolstered seats. The interior adopted a minimalist approach, with most functions integrated into a large touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly. Despite some drawbacks, the NX's design and features aimed to provide a comfortable and modern driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. While not designed for high-speed thrills, the Highlander provided smooth and reliable performance, comparable to competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride. The XSE trim added sportier suspension components, enhancing driving excitement without compromising comfort.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered a range of powertrains, including the turbocharged NX 350 with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The NX 350h hybrid and NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid provided electrified options, with the latter offering 302 horsepower and an estimated 61 kilometres of electric range. The NX 350 F Sport featured adaptive variable sports suspension and additional driving modes, enhancing its dynamic performance. While the turbocharged engine was not as refined as some German rivals, the NX delivered a composed and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander excelled in interior space and practicality. It featured large shelves for storage, a wireless charging pad, and ample legroom for second-row passengers. The third row was suitable for adults with some compromise on space. Cargo capacity was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,150 litres with the third row folded, and 2,245 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered a more intimate cabin feel, with comfortable heated and ventilated front seats and thoughtful padding for driver comfort. Rear passengers enjoyed spacious accommodations, with rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased by 14%, providing 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded. The panoramic sunroof added to the sense of space and luxury.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch display available on higher trims. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the navigation struggled with points of interest. Standard features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. The JBL audio system offered decent sound quality, though the larger screen's functionality was limited.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the advanced Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen and an optional 14-inch display. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and cloud-based features. The Mark Levinson premium sound system provided excellent audio quality. The new Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems offered natural voice control, while the digital key and user profiles added convenience. However, the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, featuring automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. It received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

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. The Emergency Driving Stop System provided added safety in emergencies. The NX also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety features were available in packages.