2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Lexus GX

There was no mistaking a 2024 Lexus GX 550 for a 2023 Lexus GX 470. The transition from softer, rounded corners to a geometric, squared-off design was immediately apparent. The trademark “spindle” grille remained, but it was noticeably less pronounced. Triple-beam LED headlights flanked the grille and sat neatly at the squared-off upper edge of the front fascia. The new front end stood vertically, giving the GX a more aggressive and robust look. The once soft chin was stiffened, while the hood rose on either side with humps perfectly positioned above the front wheels to aid drivers in maintaining positional awareness off-road.

The side of the GX looked almost hewn from solid metal, minimal character lines maintaining a horizontal alignment. The window beltline was low, aiding off-road visibility, and the lower window frame kicked up ahead of the C-pillar before continuing horizontally to the rear. Standard running boards featured prominently, with powered units available on the Luxury+ trim. The new GX came in six trims: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+, with Premium+ expected to be the bestseller.

The Luxury models peaked opulence with 22-inch wheels, illuminated doorsills, and ambient interior lighting. The Overtrail variants focused on off-roading, featuring 18-inch wheels and 33-inch all-terrain tires. Instead of semi-aniline leather, they used eco-friendly Nuluxe leatherette upholstery for durability. Each GX model boasted an interior blending luxury with utility, featuring standard heated and ventilated front seats, robust polyurethane touchpoints, and a large, flat 14-inch touchscreen display centered on a dashboard that didn't tilt toward the driver. While it didn't match the lavishness of a Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the third-generation Lexus GX presented itself as a premium SUV ready for rugged use.

Toyota tried hard to make the 2024 RAV4 look tougher than it was. Its perpetually angry expression was accentuated by lower gray body cladding and aggressive angularity. The SUV featured dual exhaust outlets hinting at non-existent performance. Upper trims wore faux front and rear skid plates, and two off-road-themed versions boasted robust utility-style roof racks. Our TRD Off-Road model, topping the lineup, had a base price of $38,295 plus a destination charge. Army Green wasn’t much liked but didn’t cost extra.

Cheaper options existed in the lineup, with gas-engine models starting at $28,675. Hybrids added a premium but offered better power and fuel efficiency. With higher trim pricing, interiors got nicer, featuring full-width dashboard shelves, robust door handles, easy-clean surfaces, and rubber-lined storage. The XLE Premium or Limited trim even offered contrast-color interiors for a more upscale feel.

In stark contrast to the Lexus GX, the RAV4 prioritized utility over luxury. Everything reflected practicality, and with the TRD Off-Road trim, the seats sported SofTex artificial leather, and the driver’s seat offered eight-way power adjustment. The optional Weather package added heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, and de-icing options, preparing the RAV4 for any weather condition. The RAV4's emphasis was clear: practicality and affordability over high-end luxury.

The previous Lexus GX model was known for its V8 engine, but the 2024 model saw a switch to a more advanced twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6. Despite the change, performance improved significantly with 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This torque became available at low revs, enhancing off-road handling. Built on the GA-F truck platform, shared with other robust Toyota and Lexus models, the GX boasted a stiffer chassis that improved stability both on and off-road.

Employing a 10-speed automatic transmission, the GX shifted confidently without the frenetic searching for gears seen in other models. Standard full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential made every GX model equipped for off-roading. The Overtrail trims further enhanced off-road capability with a locking rear differential and Lexus’s Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for increased wheel articulation and stability.

In test drives, the GX demonstrated impressive acceleration and effective braking. Despite its considerable weight, it stayed composed on winding roads, outperforming expectations for a heavy, body-on-frame vehicle. Although limited by external factors during our off-road test, the GX's capability in rugged terrain was indisputable, making it a reliable choice for diverse driving conditions.

The 2024 RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine required higher revs to deliver its full potential, unlike the GX’s low-end torque availability. An eight-speed automatic transmission directed power to the front wheels unless the all-wheel-drive option was chosen. The TRD Off-Road model featured AWD, off-road suspension tuning, an underbody skid plate, and all-terrain tires on 18-inch matte-black TRD alloy wheels.

Standard on the TRD Off-Road model was Multi-Terrain Select, offering Normal, Snow, Mud & Sand, and Rock & Dirt driving modes, though ground clearance and approach/departure angles remained consistent with other RAV4 models. Despite its off-road tuning, some limitations were evident during our tests. While navigating through Southern California’s muddy terrain, the RAV4’s lower front fascia sustained damage, showcasing its limitations compared to more rugged off-road vehicles.

However, this specialized suspension significantly improved ride comfort during daily commutes. It absorbed bumps effortlessly and provided smooth handling on imperfect roads. While powerful for a compact crossover, the engine's unrefined noise and excessive revs were drawbacks. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, averaging 26.6 mpg during our test route, though hybrids offered even better mileage.

The interior of the 2024 GX showcased a minimalist and sophisticated design, a stark contrast from the previous model. Physical buttons were fewer but essential ones remained, with rotary knobs for climate control flanking the central touchscreen. The center console housed tactile buttons for off-roading features.

Passenger space in the GX was generous for front and second-row occupants, 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 models, was best suited for children due to its tight 31.7 inches of legroom. In comparison to the Land Rover Defender 110, the GX offered more front and second-row space but similar limitations in third-row comfort.

Cargo space was a highlight for the GX. With 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with it folded, and a total of 76.9 cubic feet available. The Overtrail models offered even more, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a substantial 90.5 cubic feet of total cargo space, making it highly practical for various needs.

The 2024 RAV4’s interior focused on practicality. Its design featured numerous storage options and robust, easy-to-clean surfaces. The TRD Off-Road trim included SofTex artificial leather seats with eight-way power adjustment for the driver. Optional packages added conveniences like heated and ventilated front seats.

Driver and passenger comfort was emphasized, with the driver’s seat providing good support and the steering wheel offering an enjoyable grip. Rear seats, though a bit low, provided decent legroom and comfort with additional amenities like air conditioning vents and charging ports.

Cargo capacity was competitive for the segment, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with them folded, making the RAV4 a practical option for carrying recreational gear or daily essentials.

A 14-inch touchscreen was the centerpiece of the GX’s dashboard, complemented by USB-C ports and wireless charging options. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Drive Connect providing intelligent voice assistance and navigation. Three-year initial trials were included for subscription services like Remote Connect and Drive Connect, with subsequent costs up to $25 per month.

Standard audio comprised a 10-speaker system, with the option for a premium 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo in higher trims. While the technology setup was sophisticated and user-friendly, the reliance on subscription-based features post-trial period was a potential downside for long-term owners.

Despite its aging design, the 2024 RAV4 featured the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system with standard 8-inch and optional 10.5-inch touchscreens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Connected services plans included complimentary Service Connect and Safety Connect for ten years, Remote Connect for one year, and Drive Connect with a year of free cloud-based navigation and concierge services.

The infotainment system was effective, although minor navigational and operational inconveniences existed. The optional JBL premium audio system offered superior sound, while the available digital rear-view mirror provided enhanced visibility. Gadgets and service plans ensured the RAV4 remained equipped with modern technologies.

Safety had been a concern for previous GX models but saw significant improvements in 2024. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 became standard, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. Proactive driving assist further enhanced safety during adaptive cruise control use.

Crash tests from major safety organizations were pending for the new model, but the upgraded ADAS and modern architecture inspired confidence in the 2024 GX's safety profile.

The 2024 RAV4 was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5), though base models lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering were functional but sometimes overly cautious or prone to excessive warnings.

Previously a Top Safety Pick, the RAV4 had lost this designation due to updated testing protocols, receiving lower scores in small overlap frontal-impact and side-impact tests. These results underscored the need for a redesign to meet modern safety standards.