2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a refined and modern exterior, with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase compared to its predecessor, while maintaining the same overall length. Its design featured a reduced rear overhang, softer lines, and a floating roof effect, which contributed to a smaller appearance. The front showcased a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, with a modern mesh texture and elevated hood. The rear included a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper. The RX's styling was distinct yet familiar, offering a fresh look compared to the previous model, and it was not merely a larger version of the Lexus NX. Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials were used throughout, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede. The RX was available in various trims, including hybrid and performance hybrid options, with pricing expected to be similar to the previous model.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed for a tough appearance with aggressive styling, including angular body cladding and dual exhaust outlets. The TRD Off-Road model, tested in Army Green, featured off-road suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. The RAV4's pricing ranged from $28,675 to $38,295 for gas-engine models, with hybrids costing slightly more. The interior focused on practicality, with utility-oriented features like storage shelves and rubber-lined areas. The TRD Off-Road trim included SofTex upholstery and optional features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The RAV4 offered comfortable seating for four adults, with a spacious cargo area of 37.6 cubic feet, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet. The RAV4's interior was functional, with a focus on utility rather than luxury.

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 more torque and better high-altitude performance than the previous V6, though it lacked the same smoothness. The RX 350 Luxury trim provided a comfortable ride but exhibited some body motion over uneven surfaces. The F Sport Handling trim, with its adaptive suspension, offered a more secure and composed driving experience, especially in Sport mode. Both models had 21-inch wheels and all-season tires, with the F Sport Handling trim benefiting from upgraded brakes. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, with fuel economy estimates of 24 mpg combined, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The TRD Off-Road model came with standard AWD, off-road suspension, and all-terrain tires. Multi-Terrain Select offered various driving modes, but the TRD Off-Road's ground clearance and approach angles were similar to other RAV4 models. The RAV4 handled off-road conditions reasonably well but was not as capable as a 4Runner. On-road, the suspension provided a comfortable ride, though the RAV4 was noisy at highway speeds. The engine was powerful for its class but sounded unrefined. The TRD Off-Road model achieved 26.6 mpg in testing, slightly below its EPA rating of 28 mpg combined.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling trim featuring sport seat bolsters for added support. The Luxury trim included premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and a heated steering wheel. The RX's interior was modern and sophisticated, with high-quality materials and ample storage. The rear seat provided good leg support and room, though headroom was tight for taller passengers. Cargo space was improved over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4's interior focused on practicality, with storage options and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and optional heated seats and steering wheel. The RAV4 accommodated four adults comfortably, with a spacious cargo area of 37.6 cubic feet, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet. The rear seat offered good legroom and footroom, though it was low and lacked leg support.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen displays. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. Drive Connect, free for three years, offered natural voice recognition and destination assistance. The system allowed user profiles and music streaming through embedded apps. The Mark Levinson premium sound system was available, along with digital instrumentation and optional features like a head-up display and digital key technology.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 came with the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, featuring an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 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 included a digital voice assistant and internet hotspot capability. The RAV4's infotainment system was sophisticated but had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and hard-to-read fonts. A JBL premium audio system was available, and the test vehicle had a digital rearview mirror.

The 2023 Lexus RX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driver-assistance features like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. New semi-autonomous technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. The system performed well but had some issues, such as unmarked adaptive cruise controls and non-predictive curve-speed reduction.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, though the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring. The system was adequate but had limitations, such as excessive braking in adaptive cruise control and inaccurate lane-departure warnings. 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.