2022 Lexus GX vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Lexus GX drew a distinct line in the sand for those who favored a sleek and dark aesthetic. It was especially true for the GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, which arrived in striking Black Onyx, eradicating nearly all chrome from its exterior. This transformed the SUV into what many saw as a rolling black hole, absorbing all light within its path. Despite this intimidating exterior, a windy day easily covered the Lexus in a layer of brown dust, making it look older and drab almost instantly.

While the second-generation GX lacked contemporary flair, it did feature the signature Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior, although an improvement over the original, still felt dated but undeniably high-quality, embodying the smooth and refined craftsmanship for which Lexus was known. Available in Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with prices ranging from $56,700 to $66,210, the GX 460 also offered a Black Line Special Edition priced at $60,535.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, standing on the SR5 Premium trim, incorporated retro body stripes, a heritage grille, bronze wheels, and badges, contributing a vibe reminiscent of 1970s SoCal. Available only in black, white, or red paint with a black faux leather interior, the exterior design offered an appeal that seemed ageless. The fifth-generation 4Runner maintained a truck-like stance, invoking nostalgia while providing solid interior quality.

Priced between $39,555 and $54,020, the Toyota 4Runner’s various trims offered diverse aesthetics and functionalities, with the 40 ASE model available at $48,455. Though the 40 ASE’s vibrant stripes and bronze elements injected playfulness, its interior remained functional yet straightforward, with easy-to-use, idiot-proof controls.

Driving the 2022 Lexus GX 460 felt like commanding a powerful yet thirsty beast. With a curb weight of 5,126 pounds, the 4.6-liter V8 engine delivered 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm, facilitating a 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph. Despite its 6,500-pound towing capacity, the GX’s drag coefficient of 0.35, its full-time 4WD system, and its weight hampered fuel efficiency, averaging 16.8 mpg during tests. The standard Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved both on-road stability and off-road wheel articulation, but the vehicle’s slow and heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, meanwhile, utilized a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 278 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. Matched with a five-speed automatic transmission, it came with either RWD or various 4WD systems, enabling up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. Its off-road credentials included a minimum nine inches of ground clearance, Hill-Start Assist Control, and optional systems like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select. While fuel economy stood at 17 mpg in combined driving, tests recorded an actual 16.9 mpg.

Though the 4Runner excelled in off-road scenarios with its robust suspension systems and numerous off-road aids, it felt cumbersome in daily driving scenarios, with slow acceleration, inconsistent brake response, and heavy steering. Despite these issues, its ability to handle rugged terrain remained unparalleled.

Inside the 2022 Lexus GX, the 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat offered a commanding view and comfort, aided by clear visibility. Despite its global design, navigating urban and off-road environments was easy, except for the syrupy steering. Black Line Special Edition models boasted NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and triple-zone climate control. However, entering the rear seats was challenging due to narrow door openings. The third-row seat was particularly tight, offering little safety margin in rear collisions and eliminating valuable cargo space, which maxed out at 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded, less than a Toyota RAV4.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner’s powered rear window was a standout feature, providing excellent ventilation when paired with the sunroof and windows down—a unique trait in its segment. While getting in and out could be tough for shorter individuals, the seats were comfortable. The 4Runner’s second-row seating area was spacious, with ample legroom and headroom, along with air vents and USB ports. Unfortunately, the third-row seat option was best avoided due to its discomfort and the space it consumed.

Cargo capacity in the 4Runner, with the third-row seat deleted, started at 46.3 cubic feet and expanded to 89.7 cubic feet, significantly more than the Lexus GX. Its practical tailgate design and available sliding floor made loading and unloading more manageable, reinforcing the 4Runner’s day-to-day versatility and functionality.

Technology in the 2022 Lexus GX focused on a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Incorporating Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, this system alleviated the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface touchpad. Basic controls, however, remained counter-intuitive, with music controls difficult to manipulate. Though advanced in its offerings, the layout seemed backward, and the screen’s dual display feature was more useful compared to other Lexus vehicles.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner emphasized simplicity, featuring traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. Despite its older graphics, the infotainment system equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa functioned efficiently. Additional upgrades included navigation and a JBL premium sound system, although the bass-heavy audio setup required adjustments. Crisp voice recognition further enhanced its usability, proving reliable for most common commands.

Safety in the 2022 Lexus GX was a mix of dated design and modern features. Limited crash-test ratings and the close third-row seat proximity to the tailgate raised concerns. Standard Lexus Safety System+ included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard, though more advanced safety technologies found in competitors were notably absent.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner’s Toyota Safety Sense package paralleled Lexus’s offerings, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and a rear-seat reminder. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard across all trims. Despite its age, the 4Runner’s safety systems performed well in real-world testing. However, it received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, with lower marks for front passenger protection and rollover resistance reflecting its higher ground clearance and age.