2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid represented the most significant styling departure in the lineup's history. Its peers were known for their understated design, but the latest CR-V came out assertive and rugged, displaying a truck-like persona. Measuring about 2.5 inches longer and half an inch wider than the previous version, it showcased a longer wheelbase and broader front and rear tracks that enhanced its muscular stance. The classic D-pillar taillights received a modern update, featuring three L shapes rather than one, which gave the back end a blockier, more aggressive look. Both the headlights and taillights made a leap to full LED across all trims.

In the Sport Touring trim in deep Canyon River Blue, the CR-V Hybrid looked striking. Special Sport styling included black roof rails, black mirrors, dual chrome exhaust finishers, and larger black wheels – 18 inches on standard models and 19 inches on the Sport Touring. Inside, the design direction borrowed elements from the 2022 Civic and the 2023 HR-V, featuring a less obtrusive honeycomb grille surrounding the climate control vents and stretching across the dash. The materials in the Sport Touring cabin felt high-quality, and the contrast stitching on the seats and steering wheel added to the vehicle's premium feel.

Driving the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, one could easily mistake it for its non-hybrid counterpart. The exterior didn't betray its hybrid nature, devoid of distinctive badging, blue-ringed logos, or aerodynamic enhancements. The Iridium (silver) RX 350h Luxury test model we drove came equipped with visually appealing 21-inch wheels, indistinguishable from the standard RX 350 ones.

The sixth-generation CR-V Hybrid expanded interior space significantly. Cargo volume saw an increase to 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 76.5 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing rivals like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, and even edging out the Kia Sportage Hybrid slightly. The Sport Touring model featured a hands-free power tailgate, enhancing utility. Rear seat legroom extended to 41 inches, ensuring comfort for even taller passengers. Reclining rear seats with eight positions balanced headroom and cargo room, assisted by a standard one-touch power moonroof contributing to a sense of spaciousness. Practical storage solutions included an easy-to-access cubby for smartphones and extensive cupholder placements, with a traditionally designed console boasting impressive storage.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid focused more on comfort. The RX 350h Luxury model featured ten-way power-adjustable seats, premium semi-aniline leather, heating and ventilation, and a three-zone climate control system. The RX 500h had sportier seating with eight-way adjustment and standard-grade leather, incorporating larger side bolsters. The RX housed its battery packs under the rear seat, resulting in elevated seating that sacrificed some headroom. Cargo space improved substantially over previous models, offering 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with them folded, though still lagging behind the CR-V Hybrid's capacity.

Honda outfitted the 2023 CR-V Hybrid with user-friendly physical buttons alongside a 7-inch touchscreen standard and a larger 9-inch touchscreen for the Sport Touring trim. The vehicle came with a suite of technology features, from dual-zone climate control to a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system in the Sport Touring. The advanced navigation system optimized routes for fuel efficiency. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual USB-A and USB-C ports, heated front seats, and driver’s seat memory rounded out the tech offerings.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid's new Lexus Interface system represented a much-needed upgrade. To fully utilize its potential, however, owners needed to subscribe to several connected services, including cloud-based navigation and Intelligent Assistant. The system allowed the use of "Hey Lexus" voice commands, though it had occasional input accuracy issues. While the interface’s large touchscreen was appreciated, the lack of multitasking capability and reflective surfaces posed usability challenges. The head-up display, combined with dual-function touch-sensing control pads on the steering wheel, added to the technological sophistication, but faced issues under polarized sunglasses. Complaints included the absence of a tuning knob, making the system occasionally cumbersome to navigate.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid came well-equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance technologies as standard. Key features included adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and blind-spot information with cross-traffic monitoring. The top trims added front and rear parking sensors and rain-sensing wipers. Structural improvements, new airbags, and enhanced visibility contributed to its strong safety credentials, while earning top scores from safety organizations like IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid was endowed with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, integrating new features like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and advanced intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist further promoted safety by maintaining safe distances and recharging the battery through regenerative braking. However, some features showed potential drawbacks, like the reliance on visual indicators blocked by polarized sunglasses and reactive curve-speed reduction tech. The RX also offered Traffic Jam Assist for low-speed, hands-free driving, though wasn't tested in optimal conditions. Advanced Park technology remained largely theoretical due to its intricate operation.