2024 Toyota Sequoia vs 2025 Lexus GX

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, and this connection was evident in its design cues, such as hexagonal grilles, wheel arches, and strong fender creases. The exterior color significantly influenced its appearance, with the Celestial Silver giving it a somewhat dated look reminiscent of a "cop car." However, a switch to the vibrant Solar Octane orange with black accents transformed its persona to that of a playful "Tonka truck." Inside, the Sequoia mirrored the Tundra's blocky, geometric dashboard design, featuring physical dials and buttons for climate control and volume. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered a range of seating materials. The Sequoia provided power-adjustable front seats across all trims, enhancing customization options. A power-tilt and -slide moonroof was standard, with a panoramic version available on higher trims.

The 2025 Lexus GX underwent a complete redesign, presenting a striking new look compared to its predecessor. Its boxy shape evoked classic Land Rover aesthetics, complemented by LED headlights and a well-proportioned grille. The GX 550 Overtrail+ model featured 33-inch tires on matte grey 18-inch wheels, rock rails, and a distinctive Earth brown color. Inside, the GX exuded luxury with its clean and elegant design, quality switchgear, and chic dashboard layout. The seats offered ample headroom and were upholstered in NuLuxe faux leather with heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. Visibility was excellent, aided by tall windows and an elevated ride height. The GX's interior was both spacious and comfortable, making it a strong contender for those seeking a luxurious and capable SUV.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively available as a hybrid, utilizing Toyota's iForce MAX hybrid powertrain. This system combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This marked a significant increase over its V8 predecessor, with improved fuel economy rated at 20 mpg combined for 4WD models. The Sequoia's off-road capabilities were enhanced with the TRD Pro trim, featuring a part-time 4WD system, skid plate, and off-road suspension. The TRD Off-Road package added all-terrain tires, Bilstein shocks, and driver-assist features like Crawl Control and hill-descent control. The Sequoia's towing capacity reached 9,520 pounds, with various towing-related upgrades available.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 engine producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This power was distributed to all four wheels via a full-time 4WD system and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The GX accelerated from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds, a second faster than its V8 predecessor. Despite its weight, the GX felt agile and responsive, with ample power for highway merges. However, its fuel economy was rated at 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with features like a locking center differential, Multi-Terrain Select modes, and downhill assist control. Its off-road prowess was further enhanced by the Overtrail+ trim, which included larger tires and additional off-road capabilities.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia offered automatic power-deploying running boards on the Capstone and Platinum trims, aiding entry for shorter passengers. Cargo space reached a maximum of 86.9 cubic feet with both second- and third-row seats folded. The third-row seats could be adjusted to provide 11.5 to 22.3 cubic feet of space, depending on their position. However, the hybrid powertrain's battery pack affected the load floor and rear-seat headroom, which measured 35.6 inches. Legroom varied from 28.1 to 33.7 inches in the third row, 39.2 inches in the second row, and 41.2 inches in the front. Second-row captain's chairs were available on higher trims, though they lacked bolstering for added support.

The 2025 Lexus GX provided generous interior dimensions, with headroom ranging from 39 to 41 inches in the front and around 43 inches in the second row. Legroom measured 41 inches in the front and nearly 37 inches in the second row. The GX offered 59 inches of shoulder room in the first row and 57 inches in the second row. Cargo space varied depending on the trim, with the Overtrail trim offering up to 90.5 cubic feet with the second row folded. The GX's towing capacity reached 9,063 pounds, making it suitable for adventurous pursuits. Despite its size, the GX was easy to maneuver and park, thanks to its well-proportioned dimensions.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia featured a range of tech options, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across all trims. The SR5 trim had an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims boasted a 14-inch center touchscreen. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system prioritized functionality over flashy design. A 12.3-inch driver-information display was standard, along with a Panoramic View monitor. The Capstone trim included a 10-inch color head-up display and a 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system.

The 2025 Lexus GX impressed with its user-friendly infotainment system. The 12.3-inch gauge cluster offered clear graphics, while the 14-inch infotainment touchscreen provided smooth operation and intuitive menus. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth were standard. The Mark Levinson Premium Audio system, an optional upgrade, delivered good audio quality. The GX featured multiple USB-C ports for connectivity and charging, with the Overtrail trims offering fewer ports but ample storage space.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.5 suite, which included features like a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Trailer Merge Warning were standard. The Tow Technology Package added a digital rearview mirror and trailer backup guide. The Sequoia had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the similar Toyota Tundra earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, road sign assist, lane-departure alert, automatic high-beams, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. The Overtrail+ trim added pedestrian detection. The GX's safety features were non-intrusive and automatically disabled during off-road driving. A 360-degree camera system and trail-viewing cameras enhanced visibility. The GX had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA but included 10 airbags for occupant protection.