2023 Lexus RX vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a more compact appearance despite its increased width and wheelbase, thanks to design elements like reduced rear overhang and a floating roof effect. The front featured a modernized spindle-style grille that seamlessly integrated with the elevated hood, while the rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper. Inside, the RX offered a modern interior with fewer physical controls, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials were evident, with options for genuine leather and various trims. The RX was available in multiple trims, including hybrid options, with pricing expected to remain close to the previous model's base price.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 drew stylistic connections to the G70 sedan, with design elements like split-bar headlights and a chrome line suggesting a coupe-like SUV. Inside, the GV70 impressed with its luxurious materials and contemporary design, featuring a touchscreen integrated into the dash and physical controls for ease of use. The GV70 offered both gas and electric powertrains, with the gas model available in 2.5T and 3.5T trims, and the electric version in Advance and Prestige trims. The interior boasted features like power-adjustable seats, ambient lighting, and a range of tech options, enhancing its luxury credentials.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the FWD version did so in 7.5 seconds. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and body motion over uneven surfaces, while the F Sport Handling trim offered a more secure ride with its adaptive suspension. Fuel economy was expected to average 25 mpg for the FWD and 24 mpg for the AWD, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The Genesis GV70 2.5T came with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, while the 3.5T featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines used an eight-speed automatic transmission with AWD. The GV70 Electrified model offered 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque from its dual electric motors, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower. The electric GV70 had a range of 236 miles and could fast charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes. The GV70 balanced comfort and handling, with the electric version leaning slightly more towards comfort.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 provided comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling package offering sportier seat bolsters. The RX 350 Luxury trim featured premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and a sophisticated interior design. The rear seats were supportive and offered good legroom, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with them folded, though still not generous for the segment.

The Genesis GV70 offered 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with them in use, which was above average for its class. The GV70 included a hands-free power liftgate and various storage solutions in the cabin. Front-seat comfort was easily adjustable, but rear-seat legroom was tighter, requiring front-row occupants to adjust their seats for more space. The rear bench could recline for added comfort.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The system included Drive Connect with Intelligent Assistant voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles could be set up, and streaming services were available. The RX also offered a Mark Levinson premium sound system, digital instrumentation, and optional features like a head-up display and digital key technology.

The Genesis GV70 came standard with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menus, complemented by physical controls and a rotary dial. The GV70 included four USB ports, wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo. Additional features like ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and a digital key were available.

The 2023 Lexus RX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Semi-autonomous technologies like Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were also introduced, though some features had limitations, such as visibility issues with the HUD when wearing polarized sunglasses.

The Genesis GV70 offered a full suite of driver-assistance technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2.5T model's Advance Package added features like a blind-spot camera and 360-degree parking camera, while the 3.5T's Sport Advance package included similar enhancements. The Electrified GV70 included most driver-assistance features as standard, with the head-up display available in the Prestige trim.