2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, with its redesigned exterior, maintained a subtle distinction between its hybrid and non-hybrid versions. The RX 350h Luxury model, despite its hybrid nature, bore no overt signs of its eco-friendly credentials, blending seamlessly with the standard RX 350. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its bold Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling, signaling its performance-oriented design. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalist approach, with the RX 350h Luxury featuring luxurious Macadamia leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered a sportier, all-black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum accents.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner retained its classic, rugged appearance, reminiscent of its 2010 design. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a robust stance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model, with its underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires, emphasized its off-road capabilities. Inside, the 4Runner's design felt dated, with analog instruments and an eight-inch touchscreen. However, it offered practical features like large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. The interior space was generous, with ample legroom and a stadium-like seating experience in the second row, though headroom was limited for taller passengers.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a range of powertrains, with the RX 350h producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. Despite its power, it averaged only 20.9 mpg in testing. The RX 500h featured an adaptive damping suspension and Dynamic Rear Steering, enhancing its athleticism and cornering confidence. The RX 350h, with its efficient powertrain and lower center of gravity, provided a secure and comfortable ride, making it a preferred choice over the standard RX 350.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner, powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, produced 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. Its five-speed automatic transmission lagged behind competitors like the Bronco and Wrangler, which offered more gears for better acceleration and fuel economy. The TRD Pro model came with standard 4WD and a two-speed transfer case, excelling in off-road conditions. However, on-road performance was sluggish, with noticeable rear-end squat during acceleration and excessive noise from the engine and exhaust. The 4Runner's soft suspension, while beneficial off-road, resulted in body roll and floatiness on highways, though it absorbed road imperfections well.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable and luxurious interior, with the RX 350h Luxury offering ten-way power-adjustable seats, premium leather, and effective climate control. The RX 500h F Sport Performance had eight-way adjustable seats with larger bolsters and standard-grade leather. The hybrid's battery placement under the rear seat improved leg support but limited headroom. Cargo space was ample, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 46.2 cubic feet with seats folded, surpassing the previous model.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior, though dated, was practical and spacious. The front seats offered plenty of room, though the steering wheel's limited adjustment was a drawback for taller drivers. The second row provided generous legroom, but headroom was restricted. The 4Runner excelled in cargo capacity, with 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 89.7 cubic feet with seats stowed. The optional sliding deck reduced capacity but added convenience. Unique features included a sliding rear window and party speakers, enhancing its utility for outdoor activities.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a modern infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The Lexus Interface offered cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant, though it had limitations like single-screen viewing and reflective surfaces. The available head-up display, while useful, posed challenges for users with polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, was basic but functional. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise diminished its impact. Off-road controls in the headliner console required familiarization, with Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select enhancing its off-road prowess.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist added to its safety suite, though some features, like curve-speed reduction, were less effective.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from NHTSA and varied results from IIHS. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and a blind-spot monitor. The TRD Pro and Limited trims offered a surround-view camera system, though the 4Runner's alerts were often oversensitive.