2022 Toyota Venza vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color. This model eliminated almost all chrome from its exterior, giving it a sleek, modern look. However, it quickly accumulated dust, making it appear old and shabby. Despite its updated features, the GX's design remained reminiscent of its earlier models, with only minor updates to its interior. The cabin, though, was of high quality, featuring smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, with the faint roar of the V8 engine being the only notable noise.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Venza had a modern and elegant design that could easily fit into the Lexus lineup. Its exterior featured a deeply scalloped body side and a prominent tailgate with LED lighting. The interior was equally impressive, with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The Venza's cabin was spacious, with supportive front seats and ample room in the rear for three adults. The available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass roof added to the sense of space and luxury.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, allowed the GX to tow up to 6,500 pounds. However, its performance was hampered by its 5,126-pound curb weight, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. The GX's fuel economy was a modest 16 mpg in combined driving, which was slightly better than expected during testing. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved the GX's stability and handling, making it more agreeable to drive despite its slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal.

The 2022 Toyota Venza, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine combined with three electric motors, producing a total of 219 horsepower. This hybrid setup allowed for electric-only operation for short distances and offered Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes. The Venza's regenerative braking system helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, contributing to its overall efficiency. The Venza delivered a sprightly performance with agile handling, making it a suitable midsize family hauler.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear outward visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it easy to maneuver in various environments. The Black Line Special Edition featured NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. However, the rear seat access was challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and eliminated cargo space. The GX's side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading and unloading, with limited cargo space of 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with ample headroom and legroom in both. The second row offered 45.2 inches of hip room, making it comfortable for three adults. The Venza's interior featured numerous convenience features, including an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and multiple storage compartments. The Venza's cargo capacity was 28.8 cubic feet behind the second row and 55.1 cubic feet with the second row folded. Toyota also focused on making the Venza's cabin a quiet oasis, with extensive sound-blocking and absorbing materials.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was a significant improvement. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. However, the placement of the stereo controls below the off-roading controls was awkward. The GX also offered a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition technology. Standard technology included Intuitive Parking Assist, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with an eight-inch touchscreen on the LE and XLE models, while the Limited trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Limited trim also offered a nine-speaker JBL audio system and a head-up display. Toyota Connected Services, including Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote Connect, and WiFi Connect, were standard. The Advanced Technology Package added features like a head-up display and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its age, came with Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some modern safety technologies found in its competitors.

The 2022 Toyota Venza was equipped with the Toyota Star Safety System, which included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. It also featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.