2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling contributed to a larger look, which was not just an illusion; the new model was indeed bigger, measuring 3.4 inches longer, up to 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller than its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which gained legitimate off-road parts such as a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route, remaining attractive and functional, with materials quality meeting elevated class standards. Overall, the 2023 Honda Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a geometric styling, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor. The new design featured a less pronounced spindle grille, standard triple-beam LED headlights, and a more aggressive front fascia. The GX's side profile appeared as if carved from a solid metal block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for better visibility. The interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The GX offered six trim levels, with the Luxury models focusing on opulence and the Overtrail trims emphasizing off-road capabilities. The interior blended luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen and robust touchpoints. The third-generation Lexus GX was positioned as a premium SUV ready for hard use.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick initial acceleration and adequate power, with a soft brake pedal for smooth stops. It cornered well for a three-row SUV, prioritizing comfort over sporty driving. The TrailSport model increased ground clearance by an inch and featured all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, replaced its V8 engine with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for stability on and off-road. It employed a 10-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel drive, and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for increased wheel articulation. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, with effective brakes and controlled body roll. Off-road testing was limited, but the GX demonstrated its capability in less aggressive conditions.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Elite trim's touchscreen seemed small for the space, but it was adequate. The Pilot offered logical placement of primary controls, ample storage, and clever features like the stowable second-row center seat. The second row provided abundant space for adults, while the third row was less inviting. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 114.3 cubic feet available.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. It offered comfortable space for six-foot-tall adults in the first and second rows, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row. The third row was tight, suitable only for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a total of 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet total.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and higher offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. Features like Honda's CabinTalk, navigation, Bose premium audio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot were available on higher trims.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen, USB-C ports, and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Drive Connect and Remote Connect subscription services. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. The Lexus Interface was user-friendly, but subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA, but it received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The Pilot's safety features functioned well, with no false alarms during testing.

The 2024 Lexus GX received a significant upgrade in safety features with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and more. The GX had not yet been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, but its modern architecture and advanced safety systems inspired confidence in its safety offerings.