2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 presented a stark contrast to its predecessor, the 2023 GX 470, with its bold geometric styling that replaced the softer, rounded corners of the older model. The signature spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights that sat at the squared-off upper edge of the front fascia. The new design featured a more vertical front end, with a stiffened chin for an aggressive look, and a flat hood with humps above each front wheel to aid off-road driving. The side profile of the GX appeared as if carved from a solid block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for enhanced visibility. The rear design continued the horizontal theme, with standard running boards and optional powered units on the Luxury+ trim. The GX was available in six trims, with the Premium+ expected to be the best-seller, while the Luxury+ and Overtrail+ trims highlighted luxury and off-road capabilities, respectively.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, debuting its fifth generation in 2024, maintained its chunky, boxy design with a long wheelbase, flat hood, and snub nose. The pixelated H-shaped LED headlamps aligned with Hyundai's design aesthetic, and the SUV was available in vibrant colors like Terracotta Orange and Atlantis Blue. However, the rear design suffered from mismatched proportions, with taillights positioned lower than ideal for visual balance. Each trim had specific wheel designs, ranging from 18 to 21 inches, with the XRT trim featuring chrome and black exterior accents and black roof rails. Inside, the Santa Fe offered seating for seven, except for the Calligraphy trim, which featured captain's chairs in the second row. The interior ranged from basic cloth to luxurious Nappa leather, with some squeaks and rattles noted during testing. The inclusion of physical dials for HVAC temperature was appreciated, though the fan speed buttons were less user-friendly.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain offered more power than its predecessor, with torque available low in the rev range for off-road driving. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for stability on and off-road. It employed a 10-speed automatic transmission, standard full-time 4WD, and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced wheel articulation. The GX demonstrated effective acceleration and braking, with a composed on-road demeanor despite its size and weight. Off-road testing was limited due to weather conditions, but the GX's capabilities were evident.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a standard 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. FWD and AWD were available, except for the AWD-only XRT trim. The Santa Fe Hybrid, a separate model, combined a 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor for 231 horsepower. The Santa Fe felt stable in corners, with firm brakes and responsive steering, though turbo lag and delayed downshifts were noted. The gear selector, located on a stalk, required some acclimation. The XRT trim featured 30-inch all-terrain tires and 8.3 inches of ground clearance, with improved off-road geometry. While capable on graded dirt roads, the Santa Fe was not suited for rugged terrain like the Lexus GX.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons than its predecessor but retaining essential controls. It offered comfortable seating for six-foot adults in the first and second rows, 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 tight for adults. The GX excelled in cargo space, 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. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet total.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe's base SE trim was basic but included a hands-free liftgate and dual-zone climate control. The XRT trim added heated front seats and a sunroof, while the Calligraphy trim offered heated second-row seats and a premium audio system. The Santa Fe boasted the most third-row legroom in its class, with adjustable second-row seats. Cargo space was competitive, with 40.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 79.6 cubic feet total. The rear opening was widened to 50.2 inches, facilitating loading of large items. Most trims could tow 3,500 pounds, with the XRT capable of 4,500 pounds.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a voice assistant and subscription services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect. The GX offered multiple USB-C ports and a 120-volt outlet. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, subscription costs after the initial trial period were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, with a digital gauge cluster on higher trims. The infotainment system was intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upper trims offered Amazon Music, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Hyundai Pay. Charging options included USB-C ports and wireless charging. A digital key and fingerprint scanner were available for added security. The Santa Fe offered a digital rearview mirror and head-up display on higher trims. Bluelink app connectivity was standard, providing remote access and over-the-air updates.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. A new proactive driving assist feature was also included. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the modern GA-F architecture and comprehensive ADAS improved confidence in the GX's safety.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a range of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like rear parking collision avoidance and Highway Drive Assist. The NHTSA gave the Santa Fe a four-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS rated it as Good in most categories, with Acceptable ratings for headlights and LATCH.