2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged, take-no-prisoners design aesthetic with straight lines and an angular silhouette, hearkening back to its military origins. Available in both two-door and four-door configurations, the Wrangler could be further customized by removing the doors and even the windshield, adding to its adventurous appeal. Wide fenders emblazoned with the American flag, Jeep’s iconic seven-slot grille, and old-school hood latches contributed to its distinct, classic look.

On the other hand, the 2024 Lexus GX presented a dramatic shift from its former design. The new model adopted a geometric styling approach, giving it a more aggressive look. The signature “spindle” grille became less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front fascia stood taller and more vertical, providing a confident stance. The flat hood rose along the sides, aiding in off-road positional awareness. Character lines were minimal, maintaining a horizontal path, while the window beltline sat lower to improve visibility. The GX’s aesthetic aimed for both sophistication and ruggedness, capturing a balance that appealed to those seeking luxury with a hint of adventure.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was tailor-made for off-road enthusiasts, with multiple powertrain options catering to diverse preferences. The base models offered a 3.6-liter V6 engine providing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, alongside a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Both engines could be paired with either an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. Eco-conscious drivers could opt for the 4xe plug-in hybrid with 21 miles of all-electric range.

The standout performer was the Wrangler Rubicon 392, equipped with a 6.4-liter V8 engine, delivering a thrilling 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. This model excelled in off-road environments, boasting a crawl ratio of 58:1 with the Xtreme Recon package, perfect for tackling challenging terrain. However, its on-road performance suffered due to inadequate braking capacity and vague steering.

Conversely, the 2024 Lexus GX introduced a robust 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This represented a significant improvement over its predecessor’s naturally aspirated V8. Built on the new GA-F truck platform, the GX felt more stable both on-road and off-road. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and standard full-time 4WD, along with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential, ensured excellent traction.

The GX’s Overtrail trims included a rear locking differential and the innovative Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), enhancing wheel articulation and stability. Our test revealed strong acceleration and reliable brakes, though we noted the suspension's capability only under moderate off-road conditions.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler provided a practical yet utilitarian interior. The front seats were comfortable, especially in the 392 model, though ventilated seats were not available. The rear seats in the four-door models were tight and entering the rear could be cumbersome due to the small doors. Cargo space was somewhat limited, with 72.4 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. This was slightly bested by the Bronco but still sufficient for most adventures.

The Wrangler’s various roof configurations, including an optional Sky One-Touch power soft top, allowed for versatile open-air experiences. The interior also featured multiple USB ports and a 115-volt outlet for convenient charging.

The 2024 Lexus GX elevated interior comfort and space. With 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row, it offered ample room for adult passengers. The optional third row was best suited for children, given its limited legroom. Cargo capacity was a strong point, providing 76.9 cubic feet with all seats folded down. Overtrail models increased this to 90.5 cubic feet, making it the cargo-space king among luxury SUVs.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, which could be upgraded to an 8.4-inch screen. While initially complex, the system offered useful features such as Jeep’s off-road pages and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Wrangler stayed true to its roots by avoiding excessive tech features, focusing on practicality.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen integrated with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. It supported Wireless Apple CarPlay, Wireless Android Auto, and an intelligent voice assistant through the Drive Connect subscription service. Additional connectivity included multiple USB-C ports and, in some models, a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. The focus on luxury and convenience was evident, although some features were subscription-based after a free trial period.

Safety was not the 2023 Jeep Wrangler’s strong suit. Standard features included a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were standard only on the top 392 model or available as options. The Wrangler earned mixed safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, highlighting areas in need of improvement.

The 2024 Lexus GX made significant safety advancements with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. The GA-F architecture added to the vehicle's structural integrity, although official safety ratings were not yet available at the time of review.