2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself enough to pass as a luxurious SUV. The TX looked upscale with its toned-down, almost conservative styling, differing from the more bold designs typical of Lexus. Our test model featured a Luxury trim equipped with 22-inch silver-finish wheels—an expensive option but one that dramatically enhanced the SUV’s aesthetic and presence. The range included models like the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and the TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices starting from $55,050 to $69,350. Our TX 350, a likely volume seller, came in a Luxury trim with a base price of $60,950, which ballooned to $67,869 with added options.

Meanwhile, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner presented a stark contrast. It retained a design dating back to 2010, making it look more classic than contemporary. The TRD Pro trim we reviewed featured flared fenders, a beefy tubular roof rack, underbody skid plates, and all-terrain tires, which collectively underscored its rugged, off-road-ready personality. Inside, the 4Runner was reminiscent of a bygone era with its analog instrument panel, an eight-inch infotainment screen, traditional gear selectors, and an old school LED clock and temperature display. The materials used, such as the hard plastics and grained upholstery, strived for durability and ease of maintenance rather than luxury.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The official zero to 60 mph acceleration time was reported at eight seconds for the FWD model. Despite the somewhat grating engine note and occasional torque steer, the TX 350 performed adequately in typical driving conditions. The EPA-rated fuel economy for the TX 350 FWD was 23 mpg combined, although our tests returned an average of 20.4 mpg. Lexus offered an AWD option for an additional $1,600, which provided better traction and slightly improved acceleration.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner, in comparison, housed a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. However, its performance was hampered by an outdated five-speed automatic transmission. Despite the engine's power, the 4Runner felt sluggish on-road, with significant rear-end squat under acceleration. Off-road, the 4Runner showed off its prowess with a soft suspension that excelled over rough terrains but suffered from extensive body roll and nosedive during hard braking on pavement. The TRD Pro’s loud exhaust and cumbersome handling made it less appealing for daily driving.

Interior space and functionality were central to evaluating these two SUVs. The Lexus TX addressed the shortcomings of previous Lexus three-row SUVs by offering a more habitable third row. The TX 350 Luxury model came equipped with premium semi-aniline leather, artificial suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and an optional second-row captain’s chairs. The third-row seats comfortably accommodated adults, and the cargo space measured 20.2 cubic feet with all seats in use, 57.4 cubic feet with only the third-row seats folded, and an impressive 97 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded down.

In contrast, the Toyota 4Runner's interior felt dated. The 4Runner did excel in practical utility, featuring an easy-to-use layout and sturdy handles for off-road stability. The second row provided ample legroom, though headroom could be tight for taller passengers. With the third row folded, the cargo capacity reached 47.2 cubic feet, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet with the second-row seats stowed. However, the lack of remote seat releases and the need to manually maneuver the seats for more cargo space were noticeable drawbacks compared to the TX.

The 2024 Lexus TX offered an array of advanced technology features, especially in the Technology Package. This included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and a semi-autonomous parking assist. Despite the high-tech offerings, the unmarked steering wheel controls proved distracting. The 14-inch touchscreen interface was amicable, supported by a complimentary three-year Drive Connect subscription, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The deluxe 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided stellar sound quality.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner lagged behind in tech sophistication. Its eight-inch infotainment system was basic, incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but lacking off-road specific apps and gauges. The 15-speaker JBL audio system sounded excellent but was often drowned out by road and engine noise. Additional terrain controls were located in the headliner and were not immediately intuitive, necessitating a perusal of the owner’s manual to fully utilize the features.

The Lexus TX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring a wide array of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Proactive Drive Assist added an extra layer of safety, but it was not entirely seamless during the test. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system as standard.

In terms of safety, the Toyota 4Runner received mixed results. The NHTSA gave it an overall rating of four out of five stars, with three stars in rollover evaluations. The IIHS also provided mixed ratings, with some poorer results in newer crash tests. However, it did come standard with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The TRD Pro model also featured a surround-view camera system, adding a layer of convenience and safety.