2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid presented a sporty yet conservative design with a base price of $33,700. Its black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim added a dynamic touch, while the interior remained basic. The Sport-L Hybrid offered a leather-lined upgrade at $36,700, and the Sport Touring Hybrid topped the range at $39,850. Our test vehicle, priced at $41,175 with Canyon River Blue paint, featured a technical front resembling an angry robot, which might not appeal to everyone. However, the rear quarter view, with Volvo-like taillights, provided an upscale appearance. Inside, the Sport Touring boasted leather seats with orange stitching and quality details, enhancing its sophistication.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, priced at $75,000 for the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, featured an exclusive Incognito paint and orange brake calipers. Despite these unique touches, the RX's design was unremarkable, with a large grille and dramatic rear haunches. The RX lineup included three models: RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+, each offering different power and efficiency levels. The RX 500h, with 366 hp, was the most powerful but less fuel-efficient. Inside, the RX offered a contemporary design with quality materials and ambient lighting, though some controls were ergonomically challenging.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a two-motor hybrid system with a 2.0-liter engine, delivering 204 horsepower. This system operated differently from typical hybrids, with one motor for propulsion and another for generating power. The CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid, with standard AWD, promised 37 mpg but achieved 32.4 mpg in testing. It offered a quiet ride and predictable handling, though the steering felt heavy. The CR-V was easy to drive but lacked off-road capability and excitement.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models with varying performance. The RX 350h delivered 246 hp and 36 mpg, while the RX 450h+ PHEV offered 304 hp and a 37-mile electric range. The RX 500h, with 366 hp, provided quick acceleration but averaged only 20.9 mpg. It featured a sport-tuned suspension and advanced AWD system, but the driving experience lacked communication and felt filtered. The RX 500h excelled in straight-line speed but was less rewarding dynamically.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid excelled in practicality, with quality materials, intuitive controls, and comfortable seating. The driver's seat was power-adjustable, and the rear offered generous legroom and easy access. The CR-V provided ample storage, though the glove compartment was small. Cargo space varied, with the Sport Touring offering 34.7 cubic feet, expandable to 76.5 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and practicality. The RX 500h's front seats were snug but less comfortable over time. The rear seats, with optional power-reclining and heating, were spacious. Interior storage was practical, though some compartments lacked lining. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet, which was limited for a midsize SUV.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a 7-inch digital panel and touchscreen, with a 9-inch display available. Higher trims offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was basic, and connected services were limited to the Sport Touring.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid boasted a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Mark Levinson audio system. The Lexus Interface offered connected services and a digital voice assistant. However, steering wheel controls were distracting, and some features were optional.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with Honda Sensing, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. It performed well in testing, though some warnings were inaccurate. The CR-V earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with advanced driver assistance features. It performed well, though some functions were quirky. The RX received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA but a Poor rating from the IIHS in certain tests.