2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Toyota Venza

When turning the spotlight onto the 2022 Lexus NX, one noticed that Lexus emphasized design as a cornerstone of its identity. The NX, expected in various series like the NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+, offered an assortment of trims, including base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury. With an initial price spanning $37,950 to $49,000 (excluding destination charges), it exhibited versatility. The NX 350 projected a commanding presence with its updated design, featuring the prominent spindle grille indicative of the Lexus brand. Its design borrowed elements from the Lexus IS sports sedan, characterized by clean lines and meticulous attention to detail. Notably, the revised rear showcased block lettering spelling out "Lexus," accentuating its premium appeal.

Dimensionally, the NX grew in length, width, and height, offering enhanced passenger and cargo space. NuLuxe simulated leather enveloped most models, whereas the NX Luxury indulged occupants with genuine leather and open-pore wood trim. The NX also introduced a panoramic sunroof—a first for the model. The F Sport variant distinguished itself with elements like a mesh-pattern grille, body-color fender trim, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and sport-centric interior accents, contributing to its athletic aesthetic. Inside, Lexus adopted a minimalist approach, juxtaposed against the prior generation's button-heavy dashboard. The streamlined design, while innovative, sometimes posed usability challenges, primarily when essential functions were integrated into the 14-inch touchscreen.

Conversely, the 2022 Toyota Venza, resurrected after a previous stint from 2009 to 2015, rested on Toyota's versatile TGNA-K platform—also underpinning models like Avalon, Camry, and RAV4. At 186.6 inches long, 73.0 inches wide, and 65.9 inches tall, the Venza sat confidently within the midsize crossover segment. Its exterior design boasted sculpted sides, exuding a sense of power and dynamism. Unlike rugged SUVs, the Venza's design was better suited for urban environments, characterized by its prominent nose and sophisticated tailgate.

Inside, the Venza's Lexus-esque elegance shone through, marked by high-quality materials and thoughtful layout. The layered dash, complemented by the placement of its touchscreen displays, provided a comprehensive and ergonomic experience. The cabin offered a spacious retreat, with the Star Gaze panoramic roof amplifying the sense of space, especially in the Limited trim. The front and rear seats were amply supportive, ensuring comfort for all occupants.

Electrification played a significant role for the 2022 Lexus NX, with two electrified models—the NX 350h hybrid generating 239 horsepower and delivering an EPA-estimated 39 mpg, and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid (PHEV) boasting 302 horsepower and an estimated 36-mile electric range. The focus, however, was on the turbocharged NX 350 with its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, offered a rewarding driving experience. The NX 350 featured driving modes like Normal, Sport, and Eco, with the F Sport adding Sport S, Sport+, and Custom modes. While the F Sport felt taut and engaging on winding roads, the NX 350 Luxury provided a more relaxed drive. Lexus claimed a 6.6-second acceleration to 60 mph for both models, affirming their spirited performance.

In comparison, the Toyota Venza employed a 2.5-liter inline-four engine combined with three electric motors, yielding 219 horsepower. Designed for efficiency, it allowed for electric-only operation over short distances and featured Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes. Regenerative braking and a Predicted Efficient Drive (PED) system further optimized performance and battery charging. The Venza's maneuverability was reminiscent of the Camry, suited for daily driving and delivering a balanced, comfortable ride.

The 2022 Lexus NX's redesign yielded promises of increased space, though from the driver’s seat, it maintained a cozy ambiance. Heated and ventilated seats enhanced comfort, and the F Sport trim's bolstered seats emphasized a sporty feel. Rear-seat passengers benefited from roomy accommodations, while ample storage space and the panoramic sunroof added to the vehicle's allure. Cargo space behind the rear seats saw a 14% boost, resulting in 22.7 cubic feet, expandable to 46.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

On the other hand, the Toyota Venza excelled in interior spatial arrangements, seating five with two front bucket seats and a 60/40-split rear bench. The roofline, despite not being as tall as some SUVs, did not compromise cabin spaciousness. The Limited model's Star Gaze roof amplified the sense of openness. Interior conveniences included power-adjustable seats, ample storage, and practical features like an electric parking brake. The Venza offered a generous 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 55.1 cubic feet when folded down—surpassing the NX in terms of cargo capacity.

Lexus' commitment to integrating advanced technology in the 2022 NX materialized significantly in the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. The system featured large touchscreens (9.8-inch or 14-inch), natural voice recognition, and cloud-based services. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with multiple connected service subscription plans, underscored its tech-forward approach. The available Mark Levinson 17-speaker sound system elevated the audio experience. Voice Assistant technology, responding to natural commands, and Intelligent Assistant further enhanced user interaction. Driver profiles, digital key capabilities, and a head-up display complemented the suite of technologies embedded in the NX.

The Toyota Venza’s tech suite showcased Toyota’s experience with hybrid powertrains and incorporated user-friendly features. Its infotainment systems, spanning from an 8-inch touchscreen on LE and XLE to a 12.3-inch screen on Limited, provided seamless integration with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa. Toyota Connected Services, which include Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote Connect, were standard, with optional upgrades enhancing the Limited trim. The Advanced Technology Package added a comprehensive head-up display and digital rearview mirror, enhancing visibility and user experience.

Lexus equipped the 2022 NX with its robust Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0), encompassing a myriad of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems. Noteworthy features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, Oncoming Pedestrian Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The NX also possessed Emergency Driving Stop System, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional features available in higher trims included adaptive front lighting, semi-autonomous parking assist, and Vision Package with panoramic view monitoring.

Toyota’s Venza didn’t lag, integrating the Star Safety System, which encompassed essential safety features like stability control and anti-lock brakes. The Venza also included eight airbags, LATCH lower anchors, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, featuring forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added front and rear parking assist with automated braking. The Venza earned high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing its safety credentials.