2023 Lexus RX vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a modernized exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. Despite offering more cargo space than the 2022 model, it appeared smaller due to design changes like reduced rear overhang and softer lines. The front featured a well-integrated spindle-style grille with a modern mesh texture, leading into an elevated hood and upswept body sides reminiscent of the Lexus IS sedan. The rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper, ensuring the RX was recognizable yet fresh compared to its predecessor. Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials like NuLuxe artificial leather and real wood trims were available, enhancing the luxury feel. The RX was offered in various trims, including hybrid options, with pricing expected to remain close to the previous model's base price.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold geometric design, moving away from the softer lines of the previous model. The spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the GX a more aggressive look, while the flat hood featured humps above the front wheels for better off-road visibility. The GX's side profile was minimalistic, with a low window beltline for improved visibility. The interior was more minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer buttons but retaining essential controls. Passenger space was ample in the first two rows, though the third row was tight for adults. The GX excelled in cargo space, especially in Overtrail models, offering significant capacity with the third row folded.

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. This engine offered better torque and fuel economy than the previous V6, though it lacked the same smoothness. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive suspension. Both trims had 21-inch wheels and provided a satisfying driving experience, with the RX 350 AWD accelerating to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. Fuel economy was expected to average 24 mpg for the AWD model, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The GX's powertrain provided impressive torque at low revs, enhancing off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time 4WD with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and advanced suspension technology for enhanced off-road performance. The GX demonstrated controlled on-road behavior and effective braking, though its off-road capabilities were not fully tested due to weather conditions.

The 2023 Lexus RX offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling package providing sport seat bolsters for better support. The RX 350 Luxury trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a sophisticated interior design. The F Sport Handling model had simulated leather seats and sportier interior accents. Both models provided ample rear seat comfort, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. The RX offered improved cargo space, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist, with essential controls retained. It offered comfortable seating for six-foot-tall adults in the first two rows, though the third row was best suited 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 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of touchscreen displays. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The Drive Connect plan offered an intelligent voice assistant, though it occasionally provided inaccurate responses. The system allowed user profiles and music streaming through embedded apps. The RX also offered a premium sound system, digital instrumentation, and optional head-up display, though some features required a subscription after a trial period.

The 2024 Lexus GX came with a 14-inch touchscreen and multiple USB-C ports for connectivity. The Lexus Interface system offered wireless smartphone integration and voice assistant capabilities. Drive Connect and Remote Connect services were available with initial free trials, but required subscriptions afterward. The GX offered a 10-speaker audio system, with higher trims featuring a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2023 Lexus RX included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver 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 available. However, some features, like curve-speed reduction, were not always intuitive. The RX's safety systems were generally impressive, though certain functions were hindered by visibility issues with the head-up display.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 as standard. It included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. The proactive driving assist feature enhanced safety during highway driving. While crash test ratings were not yet available, the GX's modern architecture and comprehensive safety features inspired confidence in its safety performance.