2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Subaru Forester

The 2023 Subaru Forester maintained a familiar aesthetic, reminiscent of its predecessors over the past two decades. Its design was practical, with a boxy shape and features like flared fenders and pincer-shaped lighting, which were functional but not particularly attractive. The Touring trim, however, stood out with its 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim, adding a touch of elegance. Inside, the Forester Touring offered Saddle Brown leather and metallic accents, though the abundance of hard plastic was noticeable. The interior was busy, with a mix of traditional buttons and knobs, making it user-friendly despite its basic nature.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold, geometric design, departing from the softer lines of its predecessor. The new model featured a less pronounced spindle grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and a more aggressive front fascia. The GX's side profile was sleek, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for better visibility. The interior was luxurious yet utilitarian, with a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road features. The GX's design was less lavish than some competitors but exuded a premium feel, ready for rugged use.

The 2023 Subaru Forester was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with eight programmed ratios and a Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) system offering a Sport mode. Most trims included an X-Mode off-road traction management system, enhancing its capability in various conditions. During testing, the Forester handled flooded roads and muddy trails with ease, though its engine was merely adequate. The Forester's driving dynamics were commendable, with responsive steering and effective brakes, but it fell short of its EPA fuel economy rating, achieving 25.9 mpg instead of the expected 29 mpg.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time four-wheel drive. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and advanced suspension technology for enhanced off-road performance. During testing, the GX accelerated confidently and maintained composure on-road, despite its weight. Off-road capabilities were impressive, though the testing loop was limited due to weather conditions.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering features like a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable seats, and heated elements in higher trims. Its interior provided excellent visibility and easy entry and exit, though the sunroof's lack of tinting could lead to solar heating. The Forester's cargo space was practical, with 26.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.1 cubic feet with them folded. Interior storage was plentiful, though some compartments were smaller than ideal.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons and a focus on essential controls. It offered ample space for front and second-row passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo capacity, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 90.5 cubic feet in Overtrail models. The GX's design balanced luxury and practicality, making it a versatile choice for various needs.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch display with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The user interface was straightforward, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use knobs. However, the voice-recognition system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable for navigation.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt outlet. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered intelligent voice assistance and subscription services for additional features. While the system was user-friendly, the subscription costs after the initial trial period could be a consideration for long-term owners.

The 2023 Subaru Forester introduced the next-generation EyeSight system, enhancing driving assistance and collision avoidance. It included features like Automatic Emergency Steering and Rear Automatic Braking, though the latter could be overly sensitive. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, a step down from the previous year's Top Safety Pick+ award, but maintained high ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-tracing assist. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the GX's modern architecture and comprehensive safety features inspired confidence in its safety performance.