2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2025 Lexus GX

The 2025 Lexus GX underwent a significant redesign, presenting a striking exterior that drew inspiration from classic Land Rover models. Its boxy shape, LED headlights, and a well-proportioned grille contributed to its robust yet refined appearance. The Overtrail+ variant, with its 33-inch tires and elevated ride height, further emphasized its adventurous spirit. Inside, the GX maintained a luxurious ambiance with high-quality switchgear and chic design elements. The spacious cabin offered ample headroom and visibility, complemented by features like a head-up display and comfortable NuLuxe seats with heating, ventilation, and massaging functions.

In contrast, the 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer retained its upright stance and large windows, but introduced a modernized front with an illuminated grille inspired by the Wagoneer S. The Upland trim added functional elements like front recovery hooks without compromising elegance. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer featured a clean design with strong horizontal lines and a 12-inch infotainment screen. The seats, though plain in appearance, provided exceptional comfort and adjustability. Premium materials and solid construction were evident throughout the cabin, enhancing the overall fit and finish.

The 2025 Lexus GX was powered by a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, enabled the GX to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds. Despite its 5,666-pound curb weight, the GX felt agile and responsive, particularly during highway merges. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. Off-road, the GX excelled with features like a locking center differential and downhill assist control, making it a formidable contender in rugged terrains.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engine, producing 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided smooth and effortless power delivery, even for a vehicle weighing around 6,000 pounds. The Grand Wagoneer also offered a range-extended electric powertrain, boasting 647 horsepower and 620 pound-feet of torque, with an estimated range of over 500 miles. Despite its large size, the Grand Wagoneer was surprisingly agile and absorbed road imperfections well. Its quiet cabin and comfortable seats made long drives enjoyable.

The 2025 Lexus GX offered generous interior space, with headroom ranging from 39 to 41 inches in the front and 43 inches in the rear. Legroom measured 41 inches in the front and nearly 37 inches in the second row. The GX's cargo space was impressive, with up to 90.5 cubic feet available in the Overtrail trim. Its towing capacity of 9,063 pounds further enhanced its versatility. Despite its size, the GX was easy to maneuver and park, making it a practical choice for urban environments.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer excelled as a people mover, accommodating up to eight passengers comfortably. The third row offered ample space for small to average-sized individuals. Cargo space was 27.9 cubic feet with all seats in use, expanding to 42.6 cubic feet in the long-wheelbase version. The Grand Wagoneer could tow up to 10,000 pounds, catering to those with heavy hauling needs. Features like three-zone climate controls and Quadra-Lift air suspension added to its appeal, especially for light off-roading.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 14-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch gauge cluster. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The optional Mark Levinson Premium Audio system provided excellent sound quality. The GX offered multiple USB-C ports for connectivity and charging, with ample storage space in the armrest.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch digital cluster. Higher trims offered a 23-speaker McIntosh sound system and a front passenger interactive display. However, the wireless phone charger had issues with overheating. The infotainment screen felt small for the vehicle's size, and adjustable pedals were no longer available for 2026.

The 2025 Lexus GX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and pedestrian detection. Additional safety features included road sign assist, lane-departure alert, and blind-spot monitoring. The GX had a 360-degree camera system and 10 airbags for occupant protection, though it had not yet been rated by safety organizations.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. The surround-view camera system was highly recommended for navigating tight spaces. The Grand Wagoneer received mixed ratings from the IIHS and a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with some concerns in crash tests.