2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color, which eliminated almost all chrome from its exterior. This gave the SUV a bold, dark appearance, reminiscent of a rolling black hole. However, despite its modern touches, the GX's design felt dated, with similarities to its first-generation model from 2002. Inside, the cabin maintained the high-quality craftsmanship Lexus is known for, offering a quiet and refined environment, though the overall design theme remained consistent with older models.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX presented a more modern and sophisticated look. It was shorter in height, broader in width, and had a longer wheelbase, giving it a fresh appearance. The RX featured a well-integrated spindle-style grille, upswept body sides, and a light-blade taillight design, making it easily recognizable as a Lexus while still appearing contemporary. The interior was thoroughly modern, with fewer buttons and knobs, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays, offering a significant step up in quality and design from its predecessor.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its hefty curb weight of 5,126 pounds, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds, aided by its torque and full-time 4WD system. However, its fuel economy was a downside, with an EPA estimate of 16 mpg in combined driving. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved its ride quality, making it more stable and secure, though the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. This engine 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, and its adaptive damping suspension in the F Sport Handling trim provided a more secure and comfortable ride. Fuel economy was expected to average 24 mpg in combined driving for the AWD model, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seats and a well-padded interior. However, its narrow width and short length made rear seat access challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading and unloading.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX provided a more comfortable and spacious interior. The RX 350 Luxury trim featured premium leather upholstery and modern design elements, while the F Sport Handling trim offered sportier seating. The back seat was roomy, with good leg support, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum of 46.2 cubic feet, though still not generous for the segment.

The 2022 Lexus GX was equipped with a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system was a significant improvement over the previous Remote Touch Interface, though the placement of stereo controls was awkward. The GX also featured a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition technology, along with standard Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the next-generation Lexus Interface infotainment system, available with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The system allowed for user profiles and streaming music apps, though it lacked the ability to view multiple data panels simultaneously. The RX also offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, digital instrumentation, and advanced features like a digital rearview mirror and digital key technology.

The 2022 Lexus GX came with Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and other essential safety features. However, it lacked some advanced technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems. The GX's structural design was outdated, and there were no crash-test ratings available.

The 2023 Lexus RX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. The RX also introduced semi-autonomous technologies like Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist. While the system was generally impressive, some features, like curve-speed reduction, were not as refined as expected.