Toyota 4Runner vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of trim levels tailored to different powertrains, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ stood out with its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. It featured large 22-inch wheels, a prominent grille, and sleek bi-LED headlights. The rear boasted LED lighting and a small roof spoiler, while roof rails added practicality. Inside, the TX provided two interior color options, with the PHEV adding a dark brown called Peppercorn. Ambient lighting and suede trim enhanced the cabin, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles were a unique touch, but some felt more attention to cabin detail was needed.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner shared design elements with the Tacoma pickup, featuring a muscular look with pronounced haunches and black wheel flares for off-road models. The sheet metal was creased and angled, with a high grille and unique bumpers for TRD Pro and Trailhunter models. Heritage-inspired front ends and integrated light bars added character. The interior had a utilitarian look with chunky control dials and hard plastic surfaces. Cloth upholstery was standard, with synthetic leather and leather options available. Despite leather, the cabin lacked a high-end feel.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of powertrains, with the base model producing 317 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours. The TX provided various drive options, including electric-only, hybrid, and gasoline modes, with Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom drive modes. The 550h+ delivered a smooth ride with a versatile AWD system, making it ideal for long road trips.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner offered two powertrains, with the base i-Force engine producing 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The i-Force Max hybrid system increased output to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. The 4Runner hybrid had a mid-to-low seven-second 0–60 mph time, with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain System drive modes. The TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter models excelled off-road but had compromised on-road dynamics due to their body-on-frame platform.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. The second row featured a one-touch button for easy third-row access, though folding the second row flat was more complicated. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. Cargo space was generous, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. All TX models could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner was available with two or three rows of seats. The front seats offered manual adjustment as standard, with heated front seats on higher trims. The second row had decent space but lacked comfort due to low seat bottoms. The three-row version had limited legroom, making it suitable for children. Cargo space was competitive, with 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row in gas-only models. Hybrid models had slightly reduced cargo space due to a higher load floor.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch color touchscreen with quick response times, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labeled, causing confusion. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. The backup camera provided clear views, and the available Advanced Park system assisted with parking. The TX offered seven USB ports and wireless charging, with a 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner came with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen, expandable to 12.3 inches and 14 inches, respectively, on higher trims. The 14-inch screen was easy to use but lacked design flair. The 4Runner included Remote Connect, Safety Connect, and Service Connect subscriptions, with a Wi-Fi hotspot available for a limited time. The digital instrument cluster offered programmable information, and standard tech features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2026 Lexus TX came standard with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. Adaptive cruise control worked well, though it was initially confusing to set up. The TX 350 and TX 500h received five-star ratings from NHTSA, while the TX 550h+ had not been rated. IIHS gave the TX mixed scores, with "Acceptable" in the small overlap front crash test and "Good" for passenger-side protection.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner featured Safety Sense 3.0, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitors and traffic-jam assist. The 4Runner received four out of five stars from NHTSA, with lower scores in frontal crash and rollover evaluations. IIHS ratings were mixed, with a "Marginal" score in the moderate front overlap crash test and varying headlight ratings.