2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged, stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this tough persona with skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a robust roof rack. Inside, the 4Runner showed its age with outdated technology and styling, featuring an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment screen. While the interior materials leaned towards hard plastics, cushioned panels provided some comfort.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a more contemporary and luxurious experience. The RX 500h Black Line Special Edition featured a unique Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers, but its overall design was understated. The interior boasted quality materials and ambient lighting, though some ergonomic choices were questionable. The RX Hybrid prioritized comfort, with spacious seating and a focus on practicality. Despite some minor issues, such as a noisy climate system, the RX provided a refined and comfortable ride.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Its five-speed automatic transmission lagged behind competitors like the Bronco and Wrangler, which offered more gears for better acceleration and fuel efficiency. The TRD Pro model came with standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on-road performance suffered, with slow acceleration and noticeable body roll. The soft suspension, while beneficial for off-roading, resulted in a bouncy ride on highways.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models, each with distinct powertrains. The RX 350h delivered 246 hp and 36 mpg, while the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid provided 304 hp and a 37-mile electric range. The RX 500h stood out with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, producing 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. It featured a sport-tuned suspension and advanced all-wheel-drive system, offering quick acceleration but lower fuel efficiency. Despite its power, the RX 500h's handling was less communicative, and its adaptive suspension sometimes felt unnatural.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was straightforward, with large controls and excellent visibility. Front passengers enjoyed ample space, though taller drivers might find the steering wheel lacking in adjustment. The second row offered generous legroom, but headroom was limited. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available when the rear seats were stowed. However, the process to fold the seats was cumbersome, and the lack of a powered liftgate was a drawback.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and practicality. The RX 500h's front seats were snug but lacked long-term comfort. Rear passengers benefited from heated and ventilated seats, with ample space for adults. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While storage was practical, some areas lacked refinement, such as the unlined rear armrest compartment. The hands-free power liftgate added convenience, though the cargo cover could be obstructive.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner featured basic infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its small touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model included a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise often overshadowed its quality. Off-road controls were located in the headliner, requiring familiarity to use effectively. The system lacked the advanced off-road apps found in competitors.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid excelled in technology, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14-inch touchscreen. While some features were optional, the Lexus Interface infotainment system was user-friendly, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The RX included a cloud-based navigation system and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting and difficult to use safely.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from NHTSA and some "Marginal" and "Poor" results from IIHS. It included standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning, but the alerts were often oversensitive.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid boasted a comprehensive safety suite with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. It earned a five-star rating from NHTSA, though IIHS rated it poorly in some tests. The RX's safety technology was generally effective, though some features, like Traffic Jam Assist, raised privacy concerns.