2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid was a blend of subtlety and performance. The RX 350h Luxury model, with its Iridium silver finish and 21-inch wheels, maintained a low profile, lacking any overt hybrid indicators. This understated elegance was contrasted by the RX 500h F Sport Performance, which stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling. Despite its popularity, the RX's design was not universally praised, with its front-heavy appearance and signature rear roof pillar design making it look smaller than its predecessor. Inside, the RX embraced minimalism with fewer controls and a modern infotainment system, complemented by ambient lighting. The RX 350h Luxury's interior boasted Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance featured a darker, sportier cabin with artificial suede and aluminum accents.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed for a rugged aesthetic, with its aggressive front and rear skid plates and dual exhaust outlets. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $41,925 with options, featured Army Green paint and off-road enhancements like all-terrain tires and a skid plate. The RAV4's interior prioritized utility, with practical storage solutions and easy-clean surfaces. The TRD Off-Road trim included SofTex upholstery and optional heated and ventilated seats. The RAV4's cabin was comfortable, with good visibility and a digital rearview mirror. It offered ample space for passengers and cargo, with a 37.6 cubic-foot cargo area expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a range of powertrains. The RX 350h, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. It accelerated to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. It featured an adaptive damping suspension and rear-wheel steering, enhancing its dynamic capabilities. However, its fuel economy was lower, averaging 20.9 mpg during testing. The RX 350h was more efficient, averaging 32 mpg, and offered a quieter, more comfortable ride.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4, equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The TRD Off-Road model featured AWD, off-road suspension, and all-terrain tires. It offered Multi-Terrain Select with various driving modes but had the same ground clearance as other RAV4 models. The RAV4's engine was powerful for its class but loud and unrefined. It averaged 26.6 mpg during testing, slightly below its 28 mpg EPA rating. The RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition offered better fuel economy at 37 mpg.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable and luxurious interior. The RX 350h Luxury featured ten-way power-adjustable front seats with premium leather and a three-zone climate control system. The RX 500h F Sport Performance had eight-way power seats with larger bolsters and standard leather. The battery placement under the rear seat improved leg support but reduced headroom. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, an improvement over the previous model.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 focused on practicality and utility. The TRD Off-Road trim included SofTex upholstery and an eight-way power driver's seat. The optional Weather package added heated and ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel. The RAV4's rear seat offered good legroom and comfort, with rear air vents and USB ports. It provided 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, competitive for its segment.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured a new infotainment system with a large touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The system required activation of trial subscriptions for full functionality. It included a cloud-based navigation system and a digital voice assistant. However, the system had some usability issues, such as limited screen views and reflections. The available head-up display had dual-function control pads, which could be distracting.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 offered the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and several connected services. Service Connect and Safety Connect were free for ten years, while Remote Connect and Drive Connect were complimentary for one year. The system had some drawbacks, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and a delicate font. The digital voice assistant performed well, but the standard audio system was average.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver-assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist was also included, helping maintain safe distances and speeds. However, some features, like the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction, had limitations. The RX also offered Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park, though these were not tested.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist worked well on straight highways but struggled on curvy roads. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests, highlighting the need for an updated design.