2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a modern design, riding on the proven Toyota New Global Architecture K platform. This platform was shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models, ensuring a solid foundation. The Venza's dimensions placed it on the smaller side of the midsize crossover SUV segment, but its design was striking, with a deeply scalloped body and a prominent nose. The interior was Lexus-like, featuring an elegant layout and high-quality materials. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults, making it a practical choice for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, while popular, was not considered particularly attractive. The new RX models had a blunt-nosed design with a wheelbase stretch that reduced the rear overhang, making them appear smaller. Inside, the RX adopted a cleaner, more minimalistic appearance with fewer controls and a new infotainment system. The RX 350h Luxury model featured beautiful Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance had a sportier interior with artificial suede and dark grey aluminum trim. The RX offered a comfortable and luxurious experience, especially with its advanced climate control and seating options.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. This setup allowed for a balanced blend of electric and gas drive, optimizing efficiency and performance. The Venza offered various drive modes, including electric-only operation for short distances, and utilized regenerative braking to recharge its lithium-ion battery. While not designed for aggressive driving, the Venza provided a sprightly performance and agile handling, making it a suitable midsize family hauler.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered different powertrain options. The RX 350h, with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving a combined fuel efficiency of 6.5 L/100 km. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, delivered 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, but consumed more fuel at 8.6 L/100 km. The RX 500h featured an adaptive damping suspension and a Dynamic Rear Steering system, enhancing its athleticism. However, accessing drive modes required navigating the infotainment system, which could be cumbersome. The RX 350h offered better fuel economy and a quieter cabin, making it a preferred choice for those prioritizing efficiency.

The 2022 Toyota Venza comfortably seated five passengers with ample headroom and legroom. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, accommodating three adults comfortably. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. The Venza provided numerous convenience features, including power-adjustable seats, an electric parking brake, and ample storage options. The lithium-ion battery pack was positioned beneath the second-row seats, minimally impacting cargo capacity. The Venza offered 816 litres of luggage space behind the second row, expanding to 1,560 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable and luxurious interior, especially in the RX 350h Luxury trim with its premium leather and advanced climate control. The RX 500h F Sport Performance featured sportier seats with larger bolsters. The battery packs were located under the rear seats, slightly raising the seat cushion. While rear legroom was good, headroom was tight due to the lower roofline. The RX offered 838 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,308 litres with the seats folded, an improvement over the previous model but still slightly less than some competitors.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no special attention, making it convenient for those without access to charging infrastructure. The Venza's infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a nine-speaker JBL audio system, and a head-up display. The Venza also featured Toyota Connected Services, providing various safety and remote features.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, offering connected services plans after trial subscriptions. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cloud-based navigation, and an Intelligent Assistant. However, the system had some usability issues, such as limited screen menu views and reflections. The RX also offered a head-up display with dual-function touch-sensing control pads on the steering wheel, which could be distracting, especially for those wearing polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came equipped with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a rearview camera. It also featured eight airbags, LATCH anchors for child seats, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included advanced driver assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. The RX also offered Proactive Driving Assist, which maintained safe distances and recharged the battery through regenerative braking. However, some features, like the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction, had usability issues. The RX also offered Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park, although these were not tested.