2024 Lexus GX vs 2025 Subaru Outback

The 2024 Lexus GX presented a bold transformation from its predecessor, the GX 470. The redesign embraced geometric styling, with a less pronounced spindle grille and standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV an aggressive look, while the flat hood featured humps above the front wheels for better off-road visibility. The side profile appeared as if carved from metal, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline enhancing visibility. The GX was available in six trims, with the Luxury models focusing on opulence and the Overtrail trims emphasizing off-road capabilities. The interior combined luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions.

The 2025 Subaru Outback maintained its distinct wagon shape, standing out in a market dominated by crossovers. It adopted rugged design elements like chunky wheel-arch flares and a robust roof rack, signaling its off-road intent. The Crimson Red Pearl paint paired well with the black leather interior, though earthy shades suited it best. Subaru focused on off-road capabilities, with trims like the Wilderness offering increased ground clearance and skid plates. The interior was practical, with a flat cargo area and ample passenger space. The Outback's design balanced ruggedness with comfort, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain offered impressive low-end torque, enhancing off-road performance. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for stability on and off-road. It used a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear shifts. Standard full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential were included, with Overtrail trims adding a locking rear differential and advanced suspension technology. The GX excelled in acceleration and braking, maintaining composure on various terrains.

The 2025 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 horsepower. Both engines used a CVT and standard AWD. The turbocharged engine provided better acceleration, making it a recommended choice for those seeking more power. The Outback featured 8.7 inches of ground clearance, with the Wilderness trim increasing it to 9.5 inches. Subaru's X-Mode optimized traction on slippery surfaces, enhancing off-road capability. The Outback delivered a smooth and comfortable ride, though the CVT could be slow to respond during transitions.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. It offered 41.2 inches of front legroom and 36.7 inches in the second row, while the third row was tight for adults. The GX excelled in cargo space, with up to 90.5 cubic feet available in Overtrail models. It compared favorably to competitors like the Land Rover Defender 110, offering more cargo capacity and a spacious interior.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's wagon shape provided practicality, with easy entry and a low roof for loading. It offered 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat up and 75.6 cubic feet with it folded. The Outback's passenger volume was larger than many crossovers, with ample front headroom and legroom. Buyers could choose between different trims, each offering unique driving experiences. The Outback's towing capacity increased to 3,500 pounds with the turbocharged engine.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with subscription services for additional features. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term owners.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology package included an 11.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Starlink infotainment system was slow to respond, especially at startup. The Harman Kardon 12-speaker audio system performed well, though navigation alerts could disrupt audio. The dashboard featured a mix of physical controls and touchscreen functions, appealing to different buyer preferences. A CD player and USB ports catered to various device needs.

The 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety features with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and more. While not yet crash-tested by IIHS or NHTSA, the new architecture and ADAS enhancements boosted confidence in its safety.

The 2025 Subaru Outback included EyeSight driver-assist technology with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and more. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, indicating strong safety performance.