2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged look. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat bloated. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall body felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander’s asymmetrical dash and metallic styling element added interest, while the high-mounted infotainment screen reduced driver distraction. The Bronze Edition’s light grey fabric upholstery, however, was prone to dirt and felt less durable.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX presented a more refined exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. The spindle-style grille was better integrated, and the design featured softer lines and a floating roof effect. The RX’s rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper. Inside, the RX offered a modern cabin with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The interior quality was high, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede, providing a sophisticated feel.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD. AWD was available via an electric motor for the rear axle. It reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick start, but the engine’s hum became a drone under heavy acceleration. The ride was soft, with the suspension smoothing out bumps, and the cabin remained quiet on highways.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered better performance at higher altitudes and improved fuel economy compared to the previous V6. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. The F Sport Handling trim provided a more secure ride with adaptive suspension, while the Luxury trim showed occasional torque steer and excess body motion. Fuel economy was slightly lower than expected, with the AWD model averaging 21.8 mpg.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver’s armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain’s chairs or an optional bench. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus RX provided comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling’s bolsters offering extra support. The Luxury trim featured premium leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a sophisticated interior design. The back seat was roomy, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Storage areas were practical, and cargo space improved to 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat, with a maximum of 46.2 cubic feet.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered navigation and a JBL audio system.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen. It featured wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. The Intelligent Assistant responded to voice commands, though it occasionally misinterpreted requests. User profiles and streaming services were available, and the Mark Levinson sound system provided excellent audio quality. The RX also offered digital instrumentation, a digital rearview mirror, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, some systems needed fine-tuning, such as abrupt stops with adaptive cruise control.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection and intersection turn assistance. New semi-autonomous technologies included Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist. While impressive, some features like curve-speed reduction were less intuitive, and the HUD was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.