2024 MINI Countryman vs 2023 Lexus GX
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Lexus GX is 6.0 out of 10, while the 2024 MINI Countryman scores 6.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2024 MINI Countryman is the better choice, offering a more modern and enjoyable driving experience with a higher overall rating.
Choose the 2024 MINI Countryman if:
- You want a playful, stylish SUV with classic Mini design cues.
- You seek a zippy and athletic daily driver with good fuel efficiency.
- You appreciate a well-designed infotainment system with multiple control options.
Choose the 2023 Lexus GX if:
- You prioritize off-road capability and a robust 4WD system.
- You prefer a V8 engine with a satisfying driving experience.
- You value physical controls and a traditional SUV design.
Overview | |
MSRP$58,125 | MSRP$32,650 |
Average price$60,295 | Average price$33,134 |
Listings399 | Listings314 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews6.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews6.5 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2023 Lexus GX Reviews SummaryThanks to the rise of car-based crossovers, today’s body-on-frame SUVs appeal to buyers with specific use-cases in mind: towing and driving off-road. Luxury SUVs like the 2023 Lexus GX appeal to an even narrower cross-section of buyers: those who want to tow or drive off-road, and do either in style and comfort. With a V8 engine as its trump card, the GX remains compelling amid its small pool of competition, but due to a combination of age and a lack of innovation, Lexus ’s only real off-road SUV has fallen out of favor for anyone not enamored by a V8 growl. | |
2024 MINI Countryman Reviews SummaryThe new Countryman arrives next year and we know at least one version of the 2025 Countryman will be electric, if not all of them. In the meantime, the 2024 Mini Countryman enters its eighth year in second-generation spec. The base Cooper model comes only in Classic trim this year, the Signature trim package adds a standard navigation system, and the Cooper SE plug-in hybrid is more appealing thanks to a lower-priced base version and more standard features in the top-of-the-line Iconic trim package. | |
No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine4.6L 301 hp V8 | Engine1.5L 134 hp I3 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower301 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower134 hp @ 4500 rpm |
MPG City15 | MPG City26 |
MPG Highway19 | MPG Highway32 |
Engine | |
Engine Name4.6L 301 hp V8 | Engine Name1.5L 134 hp I3 |
Torque329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm | Torque162 lb-ft @ 1480 rpm |
Horsepower301 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower134 hp @ 4500 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City15 | MPG City26 |
MPG Highway19 | MPG Highway32 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Navigation SystemStandard | Navigation System |
Sunroof/MoonroofStandard | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall3 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space11.6 cu ft | Cargo Space17.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight5126 lbs | Curb Weight3444 lbs |
Height74.2 in | Height61.3 in |
Length192.1 in | Length169.7 in |
Width74.2 in | Width78.8 in |
Wheelbase109.8 in | Wheelbase105.1 in |
Maximum Payload1315 lbs | Maximum Payload820 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity6500 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Lexus GX is 6.0 out of 10, while the 2024 MINI Countryman scores 6.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2024 MINI Countryman is the better choice, offering a more modern and enjoyable driving experience with a higher overall rating.
Choose the 2024 MINI Countryman if:
Shop Now- You want a playful, stylish SUV with classic Mini design cues.
- You seek a zippy and athletic daily driver with good fuel efficiency.
- You appreciate a well-designed infotainment system with multiple control options.
Choose the 2023 Lexus GX if:
Shop Now- You prioritize off-road capability and a robust 4WD system.
- You prefer a V8 engine with a satisfying driving experience.
- You value physical controls and a traditional SUV design.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $58,125 | $32,650 |
Average price | $60,295 | $33,134 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.8 | 5.0 |
Expert reviews | 6.0 out of 10Read full review | 6.5 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | Thanks to the rise of car-based crossovers, today’s body-on-frame SUVs appeal to buyers with specific use-cases in mind: towing and driving off-road. Luxury SUVs like the 2023 Lexus GX appeal to an even narrower cross-section of buyers: those who want to tow or drive off-road, and do either in style and comfort. With a V8 engine as its trump card, the GX remains compelling amid its small pool of competition, but due to a combination of age and a lack of innovation, Lexus’s only real off-road SUV has fallen out of favor for anyone not enamored by a V8 growl. | The new Countryman arrives next year and we know at least one version of the 2025 Countryman will be electric, if not all of them. In the meantime, the 2024 Mini Countryman enters its eighth year in second-generation spec. The base Cooper model comes only in Classic trim this year, the Signature trim package adds a standard navigation system, and the Cooper SE plug-in hybrid is more appealing thanks to a lower-priced base version and more standard features in the top-of-the-line Iconic trim package. |
Video | No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 4.6L 301 hp V8 | 1.5L 134 hp I3 |
Drive Train | AWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 |
Horsepower | 301 hp @ 5500 rpm | 134 hp @ 4500 rpm |
MPG City | 15 | 26 |
MPG Highway | 19 | 32 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 4.6L 301 hp V8 | 1.5L 134 hp I3 |
Torque | 329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm | 162 lb-ft @ 1480 rpm |
Horsepower | 301 hp @ 5500 rpm | 134 hp @ 4500 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 15 | 26 |
MPG Highway | 19 | 32 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | Standard |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 3 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 11.6 cu ft | 17.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 5126 lbs | 3444 lbs |
Height | 74.2 in | 61.3 in |
Length | 192.1 in | 169.7 in |
Width | 74.2 in | 78.8 in |
Wheelbase | 109.8 in | 105.1 in |
Maximum Payload | 1315 lbs | 820 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 6500 lbs | |
The 2023 Lexus GX, with its massive spindle grille, 8.1 inches of ground clearance, and a height of 74.2 inches, certainly commanded attention. The front end appeared ready to devour the road, framed by large headlights that accentuated its distinctive face. The GX Black Line Special Edition, limited to 3,000 units, returned with three paint options: Obsidian, Eminent White Pearl, and the exclusive Nori Green Pearl.
Despite its imposing front, the GX's side profile seemed more compact, with a short 109.8-inch wheelbase and minimal overhangs. This design suggested it was built for tackling obstacles. The flared fenders added to its chunky look, but overall, the GX leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs. From the driver's seat, the hood dropped away quickly, aiding in technical driving. Inside, the GX had a mix of luxury touches and disappointing plastic materials, with features like heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and impressive leather upholstery.
The 2024 MINI Countryman, true to its brand, embraced a playful and classic Mini design. It featured an erect wraparound windshield, a floating roof, and Union Jack tail lights, proudly showcasing its British heritage. The Countryman offered various paint, roof, and mirror cap treatments, along with multiple wheel designs. However, dark tinted rear privacy glass was an optional feature rather than standard.
The 2024 Countryman lineup included Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper SE, and John Cooper Works models, each with different drivetrains. The Cooper had a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, while the Cooper S and John Cooper Works used a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in varying tunes. The Cooper SE was a plug-in hybrid with an 18-mile electric range. Our test car, a Cooper S with Iconic trim, featured dark-tinted privacy glass, adaptive damping suspension, and 19-inch wheels. The Iconic trim added premium leather, power-adjustable front seats, a head-up display, wireless smartphone charging, and a semi-autonomous parking system. The dual-panel moonroof allowed ample natural light into the cabin, making the Countryman a unique and unmistakable small SUV.
The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, which delivered a linear rise in power and noise as the accelerator was pressed. The 4.6-liter V8 produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 provided a satisfying driving experience. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's 6,500-pound towing capacity was respectable but not class-leading.
The GX's weight affected its handling, but it remained predictable and controllable through corners. The steering was vague off-center, but the brakes were strong and reliable. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential distributed power in a 40:60 front:rear split, adjusting based on wheel slip, making the GX user-friendly in various conditions. Despite its age, the GX's driving dynamics had been improved over the years.
The 2024 MINI Countryman offered a range of performance options. The John Cooper Works model featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 301 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Mini claimed a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds for the JCW.
The Cooper S, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 189 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. It came with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for front-wheel drive or an eight-speed sport automatic for all-wheel drive. The Cooper S accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds (7.1 seconds with AWD). The Countryman excelled in daily driving, with a zippy and athletic feel. However, it wasn't suited for off-road adventures, and while it handled twisty roads well, it wasn't as engaging as the JCW.
The Cooper S had an EPA fuel economy rating of 28 mpg combined, but our test vehicle averaged 25.4 mpg in real-world conditions. The available Green mode might have improved fuel efficiency.
The 2023 Lexus GX offered ample cubby space, with a deep center console bin, a phone space ahead of the shifter, and conveniently placed cupholders. However, it lacked modern USB-C ports, featuring only USB-A ports. The GX's physical controls, with hard buttons, were a blessing for those who preferred them over touchscreens. The center console lid had sliding mechanisms for adjustable armrests, and the second row was comfortable with captain's chairs or a three-across bench seat. However, the third row was too tight for regular use, and the side-hinged trunk door was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows folded.
The 2024 MINI Countryman accommodated four adults comfortably, with enough luggage space for a week-long road trip. The Iconic trim added dual-zone automatic climate control, premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The seats were supportive, and the steering wheel was a delight to grip. While the Countryman had seatbelts for five, four passengers would be more comfortable. Outward visibility was excellent, and the Mini's compact dimensions made parking easy. However, it lacked a surround-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert. Interior storage was reasonable, but the smartphone charging pad blocked access to the tray beneath it. Cargo space was limited, with 17.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 47.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was still present but unnecessary. The GX included three years of Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium stereo. However, the touchscreen lagged, and the graphics were not as crisp as competitors. The GX excelled in off-road capability, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, traction control, and stability control. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) and Off-Road Package added further off-road features.
The 2024 MINI Countryman wasn't a technology powerhouse but offered useful features. The digital instrumentation display and head-up display were helpful, and the 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system used BMW's iDrive technology. The system could be controlled via touchscreen, volume and tuning controls, steering wheel controls, a control knob on the center console, and voice recognition. The voice-recognition system was accurate, but the infotainment system lacked Android Auto, offering only Apple CarPlay. The Iconic trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, which sounded great.
The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were commendable.
The 2024 MINI Countryman lacked some advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) but included Active Driving Assistant with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. It also had rear parking sensors and an emergency SOS call button. Adaptive cruise control was available on higher trims. The Countryman earned the highest rating of Good in IIHS crashworthiness evaluations.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.