2022 Lexus GX vs 2023 Volkswagen Taos

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color. This model eradicated almost all chrome from the exterior, transforming the SUV into a sleek, dark presence on the road. However, it quickly accumulated dust, making it look drab and old. Despite its modern touches like the signature Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, the GX's design felt dated, reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002. Inside, the cabin quality was impeccable, with smooth, silky refinement and a quiet atmosphere, save for the faint roar of the V8 engine.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos was designed for global appeal, engineered for affordability, and sized to maximize passenger comfort and utility. The Taos SEL, with its Cornflower Blue paint and bold 19-inch alloy wheels, exuded a stylish and sporty vibe. Inside, the light gray seat and dashboard accents, gloss black trim, and metallic detailing gave it an upscale look. The Taos felt roomy, almost as spacious as the larger Tiguan, making it one of the biggest small crossover SUVs available.

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 5,126-pound curb weight and high drag coefficient of 0.35 resulted in a fuel economy of just 16 mpg in combined driving. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability, but the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the overall driving experience.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos featured a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The FWD models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the AWD versions, like the SEL, had a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Despite its sporty character, the Taos struggled with inconsistent powertrain responses and a lack of power compared to competitors. The AWD models offered an independent multi-link rear suspension, enhancing the driving experience on paved roads. However, with a ground clearance of just 6.6 inches, the Taos wasn't suited for serious off-roading. The Taos averaged 26.8 mpg during testing, slightly below its EPA rating of 28 mpg in combined driving.

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 maneuverable in various environments. The Black Line Special Edition featured NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and triple-zone automatic climate control. 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 its cargo capacity was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded down.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos provided a spacious and comfortable interior, especially in the SEL trim with real leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seats offered ample legroom and headroom, with air conditioning vents and a panoramic sunroof enhancing passenger comfort. The Taos boasted generous cargo space, with 27.9 cubic feet behind the back seat and 65.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The AWD models had slightly reduced cargo capacity but still offered plenty of storage.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. The system was easy to use, with a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition technology. However, the placement of the stereo controls below the off-roading controls was confusing. The GX also offered a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, though it wasn't included in the test vehicle. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos came with standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL trim featuring a 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system varied by trim, with the SEL offering an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and an eight-speaker Beats Audio premium sound system. However, the user experience was marred by hidden virtual controls, a cumbersome radio tuning process, and poor voice-recognition technology. The Taos also included VW's IQ.Drive collection of advanced driving assistance systems, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings due to its outdated structure. However, it 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. The GX's lack of modern safety technologies like lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems might appeal to some buyers but could be a drawback for others.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos improved its safety features for the new model year. The Taos S included standard Front Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The SE and SEL trims added VW's IQ.Drive, which included lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and emergency assist. The Taos also featured a post-collision automatic braking system, automatic high-beam headlights, parking sensors with automatic braking, and a road-sign recognition system. The Taos received decent crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, though they weren't perfect.