2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, notably the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), was based on the SR5 Premium trim. To acquire this edition, buyers had to spend an extra $4,505, $1,875 of which secured a robust four-wheel-drive system. The remaining $2,630 granted the retro-styled body stripes, heritage grille design, and bronze accents, including 17-inch wheels, badges, and stitching. The 40 ASE had a distinctly nostalgic appearance that captured the groovy essence of the 1970s, making it stand out amongst modern vehicles. Available in black, white, or red paint with a synthetic leather interior, the 40 ASE brought back the ethos of past truck-based SUVs.

The regular 2023 Toyota 4Runner lineup included trims such as SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro, with pricing from $39,555 to $54,020, excluding a $1,335 destination charge. The vehicle's rugged and nostalgic design, combined with a highly functional interior featuring easy-to-use controls, made it appealing, especially for those who appreciated the blend of modern reliability with a retro aesthetic.

Conversely, the 2024 Lexus GX 550 exhibited significant aesthetic advancements over its predecessor. The Lexus GX 550 abandoned the softer, rounded corners of the previous GX 470 in favor of a more geometric design, characterized by a refined spindle grille and squared-off front fascia. The triple-beam LED headlights added to its modern, aggressive appeal. The GX's profile appeared sleek yet robust, thanks to minimal character lines and a low window beltline which enhanced visibility.

Available in trims like Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+, the 2024 GX catered to both luxury and off-road enthusiasts. Luxury trims flaunted features such as 22-inch wheels and ambient lighting, while the Overtrail variants were kitted for serious off-road adventures, featuring 18-inch wheels with 33-inch tires and durable Nuluxe leatherette upholstery. Altogether, the 2024 Lexus GX displayed a sophisticated yet rugged demeanor that conveyed readiness for both urban and off-road environments.

Every 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission, the 4Runner had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The fuel efficiency was modest, with an EPA rating of 17 mpg combined and an observed average of 16.9 mpg.

The 4Runner’s off-road prowess was marked by its 9-inch ground clearance and various control systems like Hill-Start Assist, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. Depending on the trim, advanced off-roading features like locking differentials and the Multi-Terrain Select system added to its capability. However, the 4Runner's on-road performance was less commendable. Its acceleration felt sluggish, steering was heavy and imprecise, and the brake response was inconsistent. Despite this, the 4Runner remained adept in off-road conditions and boasted aids like Panoramic View and Multi-Terrain Monitor camera systems.

The 2024 Lexus GX marked a transformation in performance with its twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine that produced a notable 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The new engine, bolstered by a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, provided not just adequate but impressive power delivery, both on and off the road.

Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX's chassis was considerably stiffer, improving both its on-road stability and off-road ruggedness. The Overtrail trims further refined off-road behavior with a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), which maximized wheel articulation. The GX's braking system proved highly effective, and despite its weight, it maintained composure through varying driving conditions, hinting at a substantial improvement over its predecessor.

Interior convenience was a strong suit for both vehicles, albeit with distinctive differences. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner utilized a nostalgic yet functional interior layout. Its rear window, capable of rolling down into the tailgate, facilitated excellent ventilation when combined with the sunroof and other windows. However, the climbing ease into the vehicle was something shorter individuals might find challenging. Once inside, the seats were comfortable and available with heated and ventilated options in the Limited trim.

Storage space within the 4Runner varied, but the lack of rubber liners in storage areas could lead to items rattling during drives. The second row was spacious enough for adults, with good leg support and proper backrest angles. However, the optional third row was cramped and largely redundant due to its impact on cargo space.

Cargo capacity was a highlight for the 4Runner, offering a vast 46.3 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 89.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. Those opting for the third row saw this space drastically reduced to 9 cubic feet, making it a less practical option for frequent cargo transport.

The 2024 Lexus GX showcased a minimalist yet sophisticated interior design. The reduction of physical buttons did not compromise usability, as essential functions remained easily accessible. Rotary knobs for climate control and dedicated off-roading controls maintained operational simplicity. The GX offered ample passenger space, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row. The third row, available in Premium and Luxury trims, was best suited for children due to its restricted legroom.

When compared to competitors like the Land Rover Defender 110, the GX offered more generous cargo space. With all seats up, the GX provided 10.3 cubic feet, which expanded to 40.2 cubic feet with the third row folded and a total of 76.9 cubic feet with all seats down. The Overtrail models, void of a third row, offered an impressive 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum of 90.5 cubic feet.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner’s technology suite might have felt dated, but it offered functional reliability. The dashboard featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen for infotainment. This system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Despite its older graphics, the infotainment system was user-friendly and performed well. Voice commands were executed efficiently, though some limitations were noted with non-automated climate controls.

Upgrades were available, including a navigation system and JBL premium sound. The tech, although not cutting-edge, covered most basic needs and was especially praised for its ease of use, particularly for those who appreciated physical controls over touch interfaces.

In stark contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX boasted a modern and expansive 14-inch touchscreen integrated into its dashboard. This system came with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto, augmented by advanced connected services like the Drive Connect and Remote Connect, which included voice assistant functionality and remote vehicle management.

The GX included multiple USB-C ports and an available wireless charging pad, ensuring that occupants remained powered up. A notable feature was the 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo in the top trims, which enhanced the cabin's audio experience. Lexus's focus on connected services, however, meant many features were subscription-based after an initial trial, which might deter long-term owners from fully embracing the tech suite.

Safety in the 2023 Toyota 4Runner was marked by the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. New for this model year, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert became standard. The adaptive cruise control performed commendably during tests but had room for improvement in responsiveness. Despite these safety technologies, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less stellar, with a four-star overall rating from NHTSA and lower scores in some specific tests.

Lexus significantly upgraded the 2024 GX's safety features. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 included comprehensive driver assistance systems such as pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. The proactive driving assist was a new addition, enhancing safety during adaptive cruise control usage. Although crash-test ratings were pending, the advanced safety tech and modern platform indicated a promising safety profile, addressing previous concerns effectively.