2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2025 Toyota 4Runner

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner, in its sixth generation, maintained a design evolution rather than a complete overhaul. It retained the horseshoe-shaped grilles from the previous generation, now with a more robust and industrial look. The exterior featured deep beveled creases on the side body panels, blending seamlessly with the flared wheel arches, giving the SUV a broad-shouldered stance suitable for off-road adventures. Paying homage to its predecessors, the 4Runner included design elements like the slanted rearmost window from the first generation, while the sliding rear window facilitated easier cargo access. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Toyota Tacoma's design, with beveled styling throughout. The interior was functional, comfortable, and refined for its class, with hard plastics for durability and light cushioning for comfort. The materials were superior to those in a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco but not as luxurious as a Land Rover Defender.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, was priced at $75,000 and featured a unique Incognito paint job with orange brake calipers. Despite these touches, the RX's design was considered unremarkable, with a large front grille and a dramatic rear haunch swell. The RX lineup included three models: the RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+, each offering different power and efficiency levels. The RX 350h was the base model with 246 horsepower and 36 mpg, while the RX 500h delivered 366 hp and 27 mpg. The RX 450h+ was a plug-in hybrid with an electric-only range of 37 miles. All models came with standard AWD, and the RX 500h featured sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes. The interior boasted quality materials and ambient lighting, though some controls were ergonomically challenging. The RX Hybrid offered a contemporary cabin with ample space for adults, especially in the rear seats.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine choices. The base engine was a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 317 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup improved acceleration and fuel economy compared to the previous generation's five-speed unit. Rear-wheel drive was standard on some trims, with four-wheel drive available as an option, while off-road models came standard with 4WD. The i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain, based on the same four-cylinder engine, delivered 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, offering stronger power at lower speeds, ideal for off-roading. The hybrid variant provided slightly better mileage but was more about power than fuel efficiency. The 4Runner's handling was more composed on pavement, with reduced nosedive and body roll compared to the previous generation. It remained capable off-road, with nine trims offering varying levels of off-road abilities. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models were the most capable, though the Trailhunter's snorkel added wind noise.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid lineup included the RX 350h, RX 450h+, and RX 500h. The RX 350h was the least powerful but most efficient, with 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque from a hybrid powertrain. The RX 450h+ PHEV offered 304 hp and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time, while the RX 500h featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The RX 500h's sport-tuned suspension and Direct4 AWD system provided better acceleration but lower fuel economy. The RX 500h was quick and powerful, though not very fuel-efficient, averaging 20.9 mpg. The adaptive damping suspension offered a firm ride, but the RX 500h's handling was less communicative, making it challenging to gauge dynamic limits. The RX 500h excelled in straight-line acceleration and sporty appearance but lacked overall dynamic capability and satisfaction.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with a 2.4-inch longer wheelbase. While this typically meant more passenger space, the gains were minimal. The front seats offered ample room for taller passengers, but the middle row was less accommodating, with adequate legroom and headroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped and uncomfortable for adults. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and tactile off-road controls. The 4Runner offered various off-road features, including terrain programs, camera views, and a locking rear differential. Towing capacity ranged from 5,800 to 6,000 pounds. Cargo capacity was 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in the hybrid due to the raised floor. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits, supporting up to 800 pounds.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and cargo space. The RX 500h F Sport Performance featured snug front seats with enhanced bolstering, though the bottom cushions were uncomfortable after extended use. The automatic climate system's fan was loud, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the rear seat. The rear seats were power-reclining, heated, and ventilated, providing ample room for adults. Interior storage was practical, though the rear center armrest lacked lining. The RX Hybrid offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, with hooks for grocery bags and a small storage area under the load floor. Folding the second row increased cargo volume to 46.2 cubic feet, though the cargo cover hindered loading full-size suitcases.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 14-inch option available. Both screens were user-friendly, with logical menus and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, were offered. Hybrid variants included a digital instrument panel, with availability on other models. Off-road models had external camera views for precise tire placement, with automatic activation when crawling. A 14-speaker JBL premium audio system was available, along with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Remote monitoring and control were possible through a smartphone app, with a digital key function replacing the key fob.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid met luxury expectations with high-tech features, though some expected items were optional, such as digital key functionality and a camera-based digital rearview mirror. The RX 500h featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, though the unlabeled steering wheel controls were distracting. The Lexus Interface infotainment system was advanced, with a volume knob and large climate control dials. The RX 500h had a 14-inch touchscreen display, with generous subscriptions to connected services, including a three-year Drive Connect plan with a digital voice assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with SiriusXM satellite radio and streaming options. The RX Hybrid offered a cloud-based navigation system and Wi-Fi hotspot. The 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system sounded great, though steering wheel controls were challenging to use.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, though the Tacoma pickup on which it was based received a Top Safety Pick from IIHS. All 4Runner models came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign reader, and automatic high beams. Proactive Driving Assist was included but could be intrusive. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect, offering automatic collision notification, SOS emergency assistance, and roadside assistance for up to ten years. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 was standard, with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was also standard. Predictive Driving Assist monitored forward progress, using braking or steering input to maintain safe distances. The RX Hybrid earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, though IIHS rated it Poor in frontal-impact tests. The optional Convenience Package included a surround-view camera, which was highly recommended.