What To Know
- In terms of handling, the CR-V offers a more balanced and composed ride, while the NX 200t provides a sportier and engaging driving experience.
- The Honda CR-V starts at an MSRP of $26,495, while the Lexus NX 200t starts at an MSRP of $42,400.
- The Lexus NX 200t offers a longer warranty than the Honda CR-V, with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with automakers vying for attention with feature-rich and stylish offerings. Two such contenders are the Honda CR-V and the Lexus NX 200t. Both vehicles boast impressive credentials, but which one emerges victorious in a head-to-head comparison?
Exterior Design
The Honda CR-V presents a rugged and sporty demeanor, with bold lines and a muscular stance. The Lexus NX 200t, on the other hand, exudes elegance and sophistication, featuring a sleek silhouette and sharp angles. While both SUVs cater to different aesthetic preferences, they both offer a visually appealing exterior.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Honda CR-V boasts a spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates five passengers. The rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom, making it ideal for families or those who frequently transport passengers. The Lexus NX 200t offers a more luxurious interior, with premium materials and a well-appointed dashboard. The front seats are supportive and offer excellent visibility, while the rear seats are slightly less spacious than the CR-V.
Performance and Handling
The Honda CR-V is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The Lexus NX 200t, on the other hand, features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both engines provide ample power for everyday driving, but the NX 200t offers superior acceleration and passing power. In terms of handling, the CR-V offers a more balanced and composed ride, while the NX 200t provides a sportier and engaging driving experience.
Fuel Economy
The Honda CR-V takes the lead in fuel efficiency, with EPA-estimated ratings of 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive model. The Lexus NX 200t, on the other hand, returns 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. While the NX 200t offers more power, its fuel economy is noticeably lower than the CR-V.
Safety Features
Both the Honda CR-V and the Lexus NX 200t come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The CR-V features Honda Sensing, which includes lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The NX 200t offers Lexus Safety System+, which includes similar features as well as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Both SUVs have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Technology and Connectivity
The Honda CR-V features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. The Lexus NX 200t offers a more advanced infotainment system with a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Mark Levinson premium audio system. Both vehicles provide seamless smartphone integration and offer a wide range of connectivity options.
Price and Value
The Honda CR-V starts at an MSRP of $26,495, while the Lexus NX 200t starts at an MSRP of $42,400. The CR-V offers a more affordable entry point, while the NX 200t provides a more luxurious and feature-rich experience.
Verdict: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?
The Honda CR-V and the Lexus NX 200t are both excellent compact SUVs with their own strengths and weaknesses. The CR-V offers a spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and a more affordable price point. The NX 200t, on the other hand, provides a more luxurious interior, superior performance, and a wider range of premium features.
Ultimately, the best choice between the two depends on individual preferences and priorities. Those seeking a practical and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior will find the Honda CR-V to be an excellent choice. Those who prioritize luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology will be drawn to the Lexus NX 200t.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has the most cargo space?
A: The Honda CR-V offers more cargo space than the Lexus NX 200t, with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Q: Does the Lexus NX 200t offer all-wheel drive?
A: Yes, all-wheel drive is available as an option on the Lexus NX 200t.
Q: Which SUV has the better warranty?
A: The Lexus NX 200t offers a longer warranty than the Honda CR-V, with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.