Porsche Cayenne vs Lexus GX

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne presented itself as a versatile SUV, available in both a standard SUV form and a sporty Cayenne Coupe. The GTS trim level, which was the focus of our review, featured distinctive high gloss black trim and bronze exhaust tips, along with a unique front fascia with larger air intakes and tinted headlights. The 21-inch wheels in anthracite gray and red brake calipers added to its sporty appeal. Inside, the Cayenne offered extensive customization options, allowing owners to personalize everything from the color to the trim and even the seat belts. The cabin was well-organized, with mechanical controls for essential features, although the sliding center console was a minor drawback.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus GX underwent a complete redesign, showcasing a bold and boxy exterior reminiscent of classic Land Rover models. The GX 550 Overtrail+ test vehicle featured 33-inch tires on matte grey 18-inch wheels, rock rails, and a distinctive brown color called Earth. Inside, the GX exuded luxury with its clean and elegant design, high-quality switchgear, and chic dashboard layout. The seats, upholstered in stitched black and tan faux leather, offered heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. The spacious interior provided ample headroom and visibility, making it a comfortable and practical choice for families.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.0-liter V6 producing 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the Cayenne S featured a V8 with 468 hp, while the Turbo GT boasted 650 hp, though only available as a coupe. The GTS trim, with its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, delivered 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, providing impressive acceleration with a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 171 mph. The GTS struck a balance between sporty performance and comfort, with precise steering and an agile suspension system. The optional carbon ceramic brakes offered excellent stopping power, and the GTS transformed into a comfortable commuter in Normal mode.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 engine, generating 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This power was channeled through a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive. The GX accelerated from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds, a significant improvement over its predecessor. Despite its weight, the GX felt quick and responsive, with ample power for highway merges. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with features like a locking center differential and downhill assist control, making it a capable and versatile SUV.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of customizable options, but standard features were limited. The base model included eight-way power-adjustable seats, two-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. The GTS trim added a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. While the Cayenne could tow over 7,700 pounds, its cargo space was smaller than competitors, with 27.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 60 cubic feet with seats folded. The coupe version had even less space, and the plug-in hybrid models further reduced cargo capacity.

The 2025 Lexus GX provided a spacious interior with generous headroom and legroom. The GX's cargo space was a standout feature, offering 10.3 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 76.9 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Overtrail trim, without a third row, offered a massive 90.5 cubic feet of space. The GX's towing capacity of 9,063 pounds made it a practical choice for adventurers. Despite its size, the GX was easy to maneuver and park, making it a versatile option for urban and off-road environments.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne featured a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control. The Cayenne's screens were responsive and easy to use, with voice control options. A head-up display provided essential information, though it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. The Cayenne included four USB-C charging ports and a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2025 Lexus GX boasted a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The Mark Levinson Premium Audio system offered excellent sound quality, though it required higher volume levels at highway speeds. The GX included six USB-C ports for Premium and Luxury trims, while Overtrail trims had four. The deep armrest storage with air conditioning was a convenient feature.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard safety features like parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. The Cayenne had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for safety.

The 2025 Lexus GX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, road sign assist, and more. The GX's safety features were user-friendly and not intrusive. A 360-degree camera system and trail-viewing cameras enhanced visibility. The GX had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA but featured 10 airbags for occupant protection.