Mid-Size SUV: 2022 Lexus RX and 2022 Toyota Highlander Comparison

When it comes to SUVs in Nigeria Lexus RX and Toyota Highlander might not seem like direct competitors. After all, one sports a luxury badge while the other hails from a high-volume mainstream car brand both from the same Toyota makers, RX comes with standard seating for five; Highlander can seat up to eight passengers.

If we dig more deeper the similarities between the Lexus RX and Toyota Highlander become more obvious, they both share Toyota DNA, since they are manufactured by Toyota Motor Corp. (they’re built on different platforms). Additionally, the RX and Highlander offer V6 or gas-electric hybrid powertrains, have available three-row seating, enjoy strong resale values, and share a reputation for Toyota reliability.

Still not convinced these two SUVs are competitors? Well, the Internet has spoken, and a surprising number of consumers each month research the differences between the Lexus RX and the Toyota Highlander. So, as a public service, we’ll examine the key differences between these two midsize crossover SUVs to help you decide which one to buy. Since the Highlander comes standard with a third row of seats, we’ll focus on the 3-row Lexus RX L for apples-to-apples comparisons.

Performance and Efficiency

RX

Buyers can have their 2022 RX with two different engines. Some trims come with the 3.5-litre V-6 engine while the RX450h comes with the V-6 and two electric motors. During its performance testing, the RX350 trim, equipped with all-wheel drive, ran from 0 mph to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. The RX450h, which is one of the model’s few hybrids, required a longer time to reach 60 mph compared to the other trims.

The RX has a good ride that is comfortable and removes rough roads and delivers a compliant ride. The cabin remains quiet and well-isolated when on the road which makes the RX an excellent long-distance SUV.

Highlander

Like the RX L, the 2022 Toyota Highlander also has two available powertrains one gas and one hybrid. The base engine is a 3.5-litre V6 that produces 295 hp and 263 pound-feet of torque. Toyota pairs it with 8-speed automatic transmission. While the V6 engine delivers plenty of power, some drivers may perceive a slight delay during transmission upshifts, but most drivers will get used to it.

the 2022 Toyota Highlander ran from 0 mph to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. The handling of the vehicle is stable and it rides perfectly. The hybrid model of the 2022 Toyota Highlander ran from 0 mph to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds during its performance testing.

Comfort and Utility

2022 Lexus RX L still offers a nicely crafted, inviting, premium cabin, even if the design and controls look a bit dated except for the new looking and full redesign on the 2023 model, Speaking of controls, the RX L has plenty of buttons and dials for adjusting climate and audio settings, something traditionalists will appreciate. Lexus offers numerous interior treatments from which to choose, all exuding understated quality.

The RX L’s first and second-row seats provide adequate space and a high level of comfort, even on long trips. Second-row passengers in the RX L sit up higher than expected, providing a good view for passengers but less rear visibility for the driver. The third-row seat in the RX L is for emergency use only and is both difficult to access and tight on space. Both the RX 350L and RX 450hL have tri-zone automatic climate control.

According to SAE standards, the RX L offers a maximum cargo volume of 58.5 cubic feet with the second-and third-row seats folded.

The interior of the 2022 Toyota Highlander Limited and Platinum, while nicer than what you’ll find on the lower trim levels, doesn’t quite qualify as premium. Materials aren’t especially attractive or memorable, and the storage areas aren’t as functional as they could be in a family vehicle. Controls and switchgear in the Toyota are where you’d expect to find them. However, the dashboard’s design makes the SUV’s interior look unfinished.

All 2022 Toyota Highlanders, including hybrids, provide 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Fold the third-row seat, and you’ll have 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space at your disposal. Fold both second and third rows of seats, and maximum cargo capacity increases to 84.3 cubic feet. Highlander Limited and Platinum have a power liftgate with hands-free convenience.

Access to the first and second rows in the Highlander is commendable, but like the RX L, accessing the third row is challenging. And, like the RX L, the Highlander’s third row offers little in the way of legroom and should only be used occasionally by riders of more diminutive stature.

Reliability and Quality

The Lexus RX trims rank highest among Midsize Premium SUVs, the 2022 Lexus RX L comes with the following warranty and roadside assistance coverage:

• Standard warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty: 6 years or 70,000 miles
• Hybrid system warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles
• Hybrid battery warranty: 10 years or 150,000 miles
• Roadside assistance: 4 years and unlimited miles

The Toyota Highlander does not rank among the top three Upper Midsize SUVs in the 2022 VDS. It ranks third among Upper Midsize SUVs in the 2021 IQS. The 2022 Toyota Highlander comes with the following warranty and roadside assistance coverage:

• Standard warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
• Hybrid system warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles
• Hybrid battery warranty: 10 years or 150,000 miles
• Roadside assistance: 2 years and unlimited miles

Price and Value

The 2022 Lexus RX L is a midsize luxury SUV with standard seating for seven across three rows. Optional second-row captain’s chairs reduce seating capacity to six. Although the RX L has three rows of seats, the third-row legroom is exceptionally tight. For this reason, the RX L isn’t a great choice for large families. The Lexus GX or LX are better choices if maximum seating is a priority. If, however, you’ll only occasionally need six or seven seats, the RX L’s extra cargo space with the third-row seat folded comes in quite handy.

2022 Lexus RX350	$46,395
2022 Lexus RX450h	$49,095
2022 Lexus RX 350L	$49,175
2022 Lexus RX350 F Sport	$49,875
2022 Lexus RX450hL	$52,485
2022 Lexus RX450h F Sport	$52,575

The 2022 Toyota Highlander comes in seven trim levels: L, LE, XLE, XSE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum. For this comparison, we’ll focus on Highlander’s top two trims Limited and Platinum. Both are available with FWD or AWD and regular gas and gas-electric hybrid powertrains.

2022 Toyota Highlander L	₦18.6 million
2022 Toyota Highlander LE	₦19.5 million
2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid	₦20.5 million
2022 Toyota Highlander XLE	₦21 million
2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition	₦22 million
2022 Toyota Highlander Limited	₦23 million
2022 Toyota Highlander Platinum	₦24.5 million
2022 Toyota Highlander XSE	₦21.5 million

Though not as extensive as the RX L, Toyota does offer connected services on the Highlander Limited and Platinum. Safety Connect, Destination Assist, and Wi-Fi are standard, as are 12 months of complimentary Remote Connect. Highlander owners get complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first 2 years or 25,000 miles.