2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2024 Lexus TX

For the 2024 Genesis GV80, buyers had the choice between the 2.5T (turbocharged four-cylinder) and 3.5T (twin-turbocharged V6) models. Trim levels ranged from Standard, Advanced, Prestige, to the ultra-luxurious Prestige Signature, with prices spanning from $57,700 to $81,750, plus a $1,350 destination charge. Our test vehicle was the GV80 3.5T Prestige Signature, which oozed sophistication in its Matterhorn White Matte paint job, elevating its MSRP to $84,600, including destination.

The Prestige Signature models offered three exclusive exterior colors: Vik Black, Matterhorn White Matte, and Mauna Red, all paired with dark chrome trim and chic 22-inch wheels. Although Genesis intended the Prestige Signature to exude luxury with its dark chrome and sleek wheel design, the less visible wheel details under black paint didn't particularly impress. While the exterior might have seemed relatively plain, the interior told a different story. It dazzled with Ultramarine Blue over Dune upholstery, featuring diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, matte-finish wood trim, and metallic accents. This setup undoubtedly emphasized the GV80’s premium status.

On the Lexus side, the 2024 TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but managed to present itself as a bona fide luxury SUV. The TX had a more upscale look compared to the Grand Highlander, which bore similarities to a vast RAV4. Our Luxury trim test model featured striking 22-inch wheels in a refined silver finish, significantly enhancing its appearance. The Lexus TX's overall design was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, perhaps appealing to those seeking a more conservative aesthetic.

Available in three model series—TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid—the TX started at $55,050 and went up to $69,350, excluding the anticipated higher price for the TX 550h+. Our test focus was on the TX 350 Luxury trim, coming in at a base price of $60,950. Equipped with FWD, a Convenience Package, Technology Package, 21-speaker surround-sound system, side puddle lamps, and rear cargo lamps, the total MSRP reached $67,869. The TX 350 Luxury trim promised a lavish interior with premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede embellishments, although its Peppercorn interior (dark brown) combined with black trim made the cabin feel overly dark.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices. The 2.5T model housed a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, outpacing some rivals' larger V6 engines. Our 3.5T test vehicle came with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 generating 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Despite its thirstiness (with an observed fuel economy of 17.2 mpg versus an EPA rating of 20 mpg combined), this powertrain provided a more exhilarating driving experience. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with driving modes like Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom, and Snow available. The GV80 could tow up to 6,000 pounds and had an 8.1-inch ground clearance.

Taking the GV80 on a road trip showcased its quiet, composed, yet sporty nature. The adaptive damping suspension and larger front brakes ensured commendable handling. Despite an unremarkable steering system, the combination of good grip from the P265/40R22 all-season tires and swift acceleration made the GV80 an unexpectedly sporty luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX 350 had a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Lexus advertised an acceleration to 60 mph in eight seconds, but our experience suggested it felt quicker due to its torque. With a combined EPA rating of 23 mpg (20.4 mpg observed during testing), the engine provided adequate performance, mated to a choice of FWD or AWD (the latter costing $1,600 and improving traction and acceleration slightly).

The TX 350’s ride and handling balanced firm suspension with compliance, maintaining road surface feel while ensuring comfort. Accurate, well-weighted steering and a quiet highway ride added to its merits, although a soft brake pedal on the test vehicle marred an otherwise pleasant driving experience.

The 2024 Genesis GV80, specifically the 3.5T Advanced trim, had dropped its third-row seat option, previously available on the Prestige trim. The Prestige Signature model was even more limited, seating just four with second-row captain’s chairs and a sizable center console. This restricted its usefulness for larger groups, as evidenced by a family trip that required leaving the luxurious GV80 at home for a roomier alternative.

Interior material varied across trims, with our GV80 featuring premium Nappa leather. Standard amenities included heated front seats and steering wheel, manual rear door window shades, and a power hands-free liftgate. Our top-tier test vehicle also boasted a panoramic glass roof, triple-zone climate control, ventilated front seats with massage functions, and a power-adjustable second row, though these seats proved less comfortable on long journeys. Second-row legroom was scant, though cargo capacity was notable: 34.9 cubic feet with the second row up, expanding to 84 cubic feet with seats folded.

For Lexus, the 2024 TX addressed the shortcomings of previous models. With a more accommodating third-row seat and pricing far below the LX, the TX finally delivered on space and comfort expectations. Our TX 350 Luxury trim offered premium semi-aniline leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. While lacking a massage function, the front seats were supportive, and the power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel was comfortable.

The second row, despite offering climate control and window shades, wasn’t as inviting due to a flatter cushion. Yet, the third row was habitable for adults, contrary to previous Lexus models. With some compromise in second-row legroom, the third-row enabled better ingress and enough cargo room for road trips. With 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row (57.4 cubic feet with it folded, and 97 cubic feet when both rows were down), the TX proved highly practical for family use.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 was transitioning to a fully digital future, with Prestige trims offering a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. All GV80 models featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen for infotainment—mounted somewhat far from the driver, often requiring the use of a center-console dial instead. The standard suite included a navigation system, SiriusXM radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, soon to add a Wi-Fi hotspot. Wireless charging was standard, with the Prestige Signature adding second-row wireless charging.

The infotainment system was intuitive with pleasing graphics and minimal glare. Genesis also provided a digital key system and a Lexicon premium sound system (slated to switch to Bang & Olufsen in 2025). Prestige trims added a helpful head-up display, highlighting blind-spot information.

The Lexus TX sported an optional Technology Package, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and semi-autonomous parking assist. However, the unmarked dual-purpose steering wheel controls frustrated drivers, especially when combined with the head-up display’s limited visibility through polarized sunglasses.

Lexus Interface with its 14-inch touchscreen was praiseworthy, especially with the Drive Connect's natural voice recognition. The TX included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and long-term subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, alongside Wi-Fi and Remote Connect features. The 21-speaker Mark Levinson PurePlay surround-sound system stood out with impressive audio quality.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a suite of advanced driving-assistance systems (ADAS), including a camera-based Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist (HDA). HDA worked well in light to moderate traffic but was less effective in high-speed conditions. The Blind-Spot View Monitor showed video feeds of the blind spots in the instrument panel, enhancing driver safety alongside blind-spot warnings. The Remote Smart Parking Assist system allowed for autonomous parking, even from outside the vehicle via the key fob.

The GV80’s safety accolades included a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with some four-star ratings in the frontal-impact test.

Lexus equipped the TX with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0), encompassing adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping systems, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance but was ultimately turned off during testing due to unclear brake light indications when slowing.

Optional safety features included parking sensors with automatic braking, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist for low-speed hands-free driving. While the TX’s LSS+ 3.0 performed smoothly, the system’s reaction to cut-ins caused noticeable slow-downs, leading to driver frustration.