2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport was characterized by its modernist and reductive design, which translated to a clean and simple aesthetic. This approach might not have appealed to those seeking a flashy luxury SUV, as the factory options for making the Range Rover Sport stand out were limited to a Firenze Red paint color and diamond-turned, multi-spoke 23-inch wheels. Despite this, the test vehicle in Eiger Gray with silver wheels and a Black Exterior Pack exuded understated luxury. Inside, the Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and shiny black trim added to the sophisticated ambiance. The Range Rover Sport was available in SE P360, SE Dynamic P400, and Autobiography P440e specifications, with the SE Dynamic P400 test vehicle priced at $98,420, including destination charges. Notable design features included premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and surface LED technology taillights, contributing to its excellent aerodynamics.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a more geometric styling, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor. The redesigned midsize SUV featured a less pronounced spindle grille, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the GX a more aggressive look. The side profile appeared as if carved from a solid metal block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for improved visibility. The GX was offered in six trim levels, with the Premium+ expected to be the best-seller. Luxury models focused on opulence, while the Overtrail trims emphasized off-roading capabilities. The interior blended luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions. While not as luxurious as some competitors, the third-generation Lexus GX was designed for durability and long-term use.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport aimed to balance refinement and driver-focused engagement, though it only partially succeeded. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque in the SE Dynamic model. The SE P360 offered 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) drivetrain was standard in the Autobiography P440e, delivering 434 hp and 406 lb-ft with an estimated 51 miles of electric range. A 523-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 was available for early-build models but was later discontinued. The Range Rover Sport was expected to introduce a fully-electric version in 2024. The test vehicle's 395-hp engine provided ample power, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and an Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, with a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds. The P400 drivetrain achieved 21 mpg in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 22.3 mpg.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The torque was available low in the rev range, enhancing off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX shared its underpinnings with other Toyota and Lexus models, providing a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured 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 enhanced off-road performance. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, with effective brakes. Off-road testing was limited due to weather conditions, but the GX's off-road features were promising.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport maintained the Range Rover Command Driving Position, offering a tall and airy feel. The air suspension could kneel for easier entry and exit, and the front seats were comfortable with adjustable armrests. The test vehicle featured Windsor leather upholstery, 20-way power-adjustable front seats, and optional massage and air purification systems. The rear seat was less accommodating, with limited legroom and hard seatback panels. The cargo area offered 31.9 cubic feet of space, expandable to 53 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A full-size spare tire was included, and the cargo area featured storage solutions.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons. It offered 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. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet in total.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport featured a 13.7-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with haptic feedback. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. However, the Pivi Pro infotainment system was often confusing and frustrating to use. The SUV offered impressive Meridian audio systems and a next-generation Active Noise Cancellation system. A wireless smartphone charging pad was included but difficult to access.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted 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. While the Lexus Interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included advanced driving assistance systems such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured automatic high-beam headlights, a driver monitoring system, and a surround-view camera system. Remote Park Assist was available, but the adaptive cruise control and steering assist were not as smooth or reliable as expected.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. A new proactive driving assist feature was also included. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the GX's modern architecture and comprehensive safety features inspired confidence.