2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler carried forward its classic, rugged design with the fourth-generation JL, featuring an almost brick-like exterior devoid of curves. This aesthetic was bold and unmistakably tough, offering options between two-door and four-door models, with doors that could be removed for a more open-air experience. The addition of the Dual-Door Group provided half doors for those wanting better visibility without feeling too exposed. The foldable windshield and various top options added to its adventurous spirit. Key design elements included Jeep's iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, old-school hood latches, and wide fenders with a patriotic American flag decal. The tailgate’s swing-out mechanism and the lifting rear glass made cargo access a breeze. Interior-wise, the Wrangler embraced simplicity and practicality with easy-to-clean floor mats and straightforward controls, highlighted by a body-colored dash and chunky HVAC controls.

On the other hand, the 2023 Lexus GX exuded a different kind of presence. With a massive spindle grille coupled with 8.1 inches of ground clearance and an overall height of 74.2 inches, the GX had a commanding front end accentuated by large headlights. The Black Line Special Edition, limited to just 3,000 units, offered exclusive colors like Eminent White Pearl and Nori Green Pearl. The short wheelbase of 109.8 inches made it look compact from the side, and its minimal overhangs hinted at its off-road capabilities. Despite its luxury badge, the GX sported a utilitarian look with big, flared fenders. Inside, however, it fell short of luxury expectations due to extensive use of plastic materials, though elements like heated and cooled seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and premium leather upholstery added some opulence.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was celebrated for its off-road prowess, with solid front and rear axles and optional differential lockers. Buyers had a choice of multiple engines, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more torque, the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 offered 260 hp and a robust 442 lb-ft of torque. Thrill-seekers could opt for the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392, boasting a 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower and an equal amount of torque, which could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds. The plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4xe provided an eco-friendlier option with a combined power output and 21 miles of all-electric range. The Wrangler’s variety of off-road transfer cases, including the Selec-Trac and Rock-Trac, ensured it could tackle all kinds of terrain, with the Xtreme Recon package enhancing its crawl ratio to 58:1. Nonetheless, the 392’s impressive engine power highlighted weaknesses in its steering and inadequate braking.

The 2023 Lexus GX stood out with its V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. Although these figures were modest compared to some modern SUVs, the GX’s naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 delivered a satisfying and linear power response. However, its performance was hindered by its weight and dated design, resulting in considerable body roll during cornering. The GX’s 6,500-pound towing capacity was respectable but weaker compared to competitors. Fuel economy was a significant drawback at just 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX managed to retain some comfort and control, thanks to predictable roll dynamics and strong brakes, even if the steering felt vague. Its Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and full-time 4WD system made it capable off-road, especially with the Off-Road Package enhancements.

Inside the 2023 Jeep Wrangler, the front seats provided ample comfort, though features like heated seats were limited to higher trims or specific packages, with no option for ventilated seats. Rear seating was cramped, especially in two-door models, and accessing the back seats proved challenging due to small rear doors. Small item storage was minimal, with tiny glove boxes and center consoles, and an overheating risk for phones placed on the dash. Cargo space was limited to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Several top options, including a hard top, Sunrider, and Sky One-Touch power soft top, allowed owners to customize their open-air experience. The Wrangler also featured multiple charging points, including both USB-A and USB-C ports, and several 12-volt outlets.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample storage spaces, such as a deep center console bin and a convenient phone cubby ahead of the shifter. However, it lacked USB-C ports, offering only outdated USB-A ports. Lexus’s use of physical buttons over haptic-touch interfaces was a plus for many, though the sheer number of buttons required time to master. The adjustable center console lid was a thoughtful touch, accommodating different-sized occupants. Rear passengers enjoyed comfort, especially with optional captain’s chairs and good leg and headroom in the second row. However, the third row was tight and impractical for regular use. Cargo capacity was a limitation, with just 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet in total, trailing behind more spacious rivals like the Toyota RAV4.

Jeep’s Uconnect infotainment system, featuring a standard 7-inch or an optional 8.4-inch touchscreen, delivered a user-friendly interface once drivers got accustomed to it. It included vital off-road information and supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, Jeep avoided excessive technological frills, lacking a digital key and limiting over-the-air updates to the infotainment system. Practical additions like a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches proved useful for off-road adventures.

Lexus updated its GX technology for 2022, but it already felt outdated by 2023. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement over its predecessor, integrating Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) remained but was less necessary due to the better touchscreen. Lexus Enform Remote offered remote-start capabilities. However, the system lagged behind newer Lexus models in performance, and the inclusion of a CD player highlighted its dated nature. The GX shone with off-road tech, including a sophisticated 4WD system, downhill assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), along with added features in the Off-Road Package for handling varied terrains.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler’s safety features were limited, standardizing only the mandatory rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Optional safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control were only standard on the top model. The Wrangler’s crash ratings showed mixed results, with varying ratings from the IIHS and a 4-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA, though it received 3 stars for rollover and lacked a side crash rating.

Without crash testing from the NHTSA or IIHS, the 2023 Lexus GX’s safety ratings were unknown; however, its aging design suggested potential limitations in structural safety. Despite this, Lexus included a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. These features offered modern safety in an older body.