2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, with its four-dot running lights reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a rear design echoing Volkswagen's symmetry. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its well-proportioned and grounded appearance. Inside, the Sportage boasted a Germanic-inspired design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and straightforward instrumentation. The interior was user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, climate, and infotainment systems, contributing to an upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a design that harked back to its first-generation roots, with only the spindle grille and LED headlights distinguishing it from its predecessors. The interior, however, was a testament to Lexus's commitment to quality, offering a refined and quiet cabin. The GX's seats were comfortable, and the materials used exuded luxury. Despite its dated design, the GX's interior was functional, with physical controls that were easy to use. However, the placement of some controls, like the stereo and off-roading knobs, was less intuitive. The Black Line Special Edition added a touch of modernity with NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim, enhancing the overall cabin experience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models featured a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive yet unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, came with a more powerful engine, delivering 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base LX FWD model. The Sportage SX offered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, giving it a lively character, especially in Sport mode. The suspension system, featuring MacPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link rear, provided a smooth and compliant ride, though some body roll and lateral rocking were noticeable. The Sportage SX was fun to drive, though not as refined as competitors like the Mazda CX-5 Turbo.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its hefty curb weight of 2,325 kilograms, was equipped with a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. While not particularly potent, the engine provided a satisfying note and ample torque, contributing to a 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph and a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms. The GX featured a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, distributing power 40/60 between the front and rear wheels. Its boxy design resulted in a high drag coefficient of 0.35, impacting fuel efficiency, with a combined consumption estimate of 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability, making the GX agreeable to drive despite its age. However, the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy, affecting smooth driving in traffic.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though compact, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided front-seat occupants with perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, comfortable seating, and amenities like air conditioning vents and a USB charging port. The Sportage's interior storage was ample, but cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded and 868 litres behind the back seat. The smart liftgate technology added convenience, though it could be turned off if not needed.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it maneuverable in various settings, though the steering required extra effort. The interior was comfortable, with physical controls and NuLuxe upholstery in the Black Line Special Edition. The GX's rear seat access was challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. With the third-row seat stowed, the GX offered 1,322 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,833 litres with the second-row seat folded. The side-swinging tailgate added to the loading challenges, especially in tight spaces.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with knobs for volume and tuning, though the UVO Intelligence system lagged in sophistication, lacking features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, navigation, and a CD player. The Lexus app and Enform connected services, including a WiFi hotspot, added modern functionality. However, the placement of stereo controls below off-roading knobs was less intuitive. The dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition technology enhanced the user experience. Intuitive Parking Assist became standard, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras available.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, in its EX and SX trims, offered safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were also included. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on its standard Lexus Safety System+ for safety. This included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services were also standard. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, which could be a drawback for some buyers.