2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, closely resembled its gasoline-powered counterpart in terms of dimensions and design. Measuring 182.1 inches in length, 73.0 inches in width, and 66.5 inches in height, the hybrid model shared the same 19-inch alloy wheels and interior layout, including the 7-inch infotainment screen and multi-function center console. Subtle differences, such as blue-outlined Honda emblems and "Hybrid" badges, distinguished it from the gasoline version. The gear shifter was replaced with a push-button selector, and paddle shifters were repurposed to adjust brake regeneration.

The 2021 Lexus NX, available in NX 300 and NX 300 F Sport gasoline models, retained the sharp design lines characteristic of Lexus SUVs. The F Sport variant featured sportier elements like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the F Sport boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional Circuit Red interior. The gauge cluster, though functional, appeared dated compared to newer models. The center stack, with its elevated climate-control buttons and rare CD player, also showed its age but remained functional.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a two-motor hybrid system with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing a combined 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. It offered impressive fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 40 mpg city, 35 highway, and 38 combined. In real-world testing, it achieved nearly 41 mpg in city driving. The hybrid system's EV mode was limited to short distances, and the brake-regen adjustments provided some driving customization. The CR-V Hybrid delivered a compliant ride with good steering feel and on-demand torque, making it more enjoyable to drive than the gasoline model.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission provided adequate performance, with a 0-60 mph time of around seven seconds. The F Sport variant included Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 highway, and 25 combined, while the AWD model achieved 24 mpg combined. The NX offered a smooth and comfortable ride, with three drive modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport) influencing throttle response and power-steering assist.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, while sacrificing some cargo space for the battery pack, still offered 33.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 68.7 cubic feet with them folded flat. This was more than the Ford Escape Hybrid but less than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The CR-V Hybrid provided ample passenger space, beating out competitors in front headroom and rear legroom. The configurable center console bin added to its practicality, though the armrest's adjustability was overly loose.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a well-styled and comfortable interior, with front seats providing ample room and the second-row seats accommodating two adults comfortably. The NX offered 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats and 54.6 cubic feet with them folded down, making it one of the smallest in its class. The power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats were available options. Engine noise was present, but road and wind noise were well-muted, typical of a Lexus.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid came standard with Bluetooth connectivity, Pandora compatibility, and a single USB connector. Higher trims added a 7-inch touchscreen display, smartphone integration, SiriusXM, HD radio, and additional USB ports. The top-tier Touring trim included navigation, wireless device charging, and a premium audio system. However, the infotainment system's lack of haptic feedback and complicated menu navigation were drawbacks.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Premium Audio system was standard, with an optional Mark Levinson 14-speaker system. The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions, and the Enform Services Connect provided maintenance alerts.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and a 5-Star Safety Rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included Honda Sensing, which offered automatic braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a multi-angle rearview camera. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available starting with the EX trim.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional safety features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided additional safety services.