2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, with its redesigned exterior, was a subtle evolution of its predecessor. The RX 350h Luxury model, in particular, maintained a classic look with its Iridium silver finish and 21-inch wheels, lacking any overt hybrid identifiers. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling, signaling its performance-oriented nature. Despite these updates, the RX retained its characteristic blunt-nosed design, which some found less than stunning. Inside, the RX embraced a minimalist aesthetic, featuring a new Lexus Interface infotainment system and ambient lighting, enhancing its modern appeal. The RX 350h Luxury's interior boasted Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered a sportier, all-black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum accents.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX underwent a more dramatic transformation, shedding its softer, rounded edges for a bold, geometric design. The new GX featured a less pronounced spindle grille, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights, and a more vertical front fascia. Its flat hood and minimal character lines gave it a robust, carved-from-metal appearance. The GX's interior was equally impressive, with a minimalist design that retained essential physical controls for off-roading features. Passenger space was generous in the first two rows, though the third row was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo capacity, offering up to 90.5 cubic feet in Overtrail models, making it a practical choice for those needing ample storage.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a range of powertrains, with the RX 350h featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque. It promised improved fuel efficiency, averaging 36 mpg in combined driving, though real-world testing showed 32 mpg. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, on the other hand, delivered a more exhilarating experience with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds but sacrificed fuel economy, averaging 20.9 mpg. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension, upgraded brakes, and rear-wheel steering contributed to its dynamic handling, making it a joy to drive.

The 2024 Lexus GX, meanwhile, replaced its V8 engine with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. This new powertrain offered impressive low-end torque, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time 4WD with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), providing increased wheel articulation and stability. The GX's performance was commendable both on and off-road, with effective brakes and a composed ride, even in challenging conditions.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid prioritized comfort and practicality. The RX 350h Luxury trim offered ten-way power-adjustable front seats with premium leather, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance featured eight-way power-adjustable seats with larger bolsters. Both models included heated and ventilated front seats and a three-zone automatic climate control system. The RX's battery placement under the rear seat provided excellent leg support and legroom, though rear headroom was limited. Cargo space was generous, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the back seat folded, surpassing the previous model.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was a departure from its predecessor, with a minimalist design and essential physical controls for off-roading features. It offered ample passenger space in the first two rows, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row. The third row, however, was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo capacity, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a total of 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet in total.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, the Lexus Interface, which required subscription plans for full functionality. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Drive Connect, a cloud-based navigation system with an intelligent voice assistant. While the system worked reasonably well, it had some limitations, such as the inability to view multiple screen menus simultaneously and issues with screen reflections. The available head-up display and dual-function touch-sensing control pads on the steering wheel added to the tech experience, though they had some usability challenges.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Drive Connect and Remote Connect services. The GX offered a 10-speaker audio system, with the Luxury and Overtrail+ trims available with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the Lexus Interface was user-friendly, the subscription-based features after the initial trial period were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). It included features like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance, and curve-speed reduction for adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were also available, enhancing safety and convenience. However, some features had usability issues, such as the front cross-traffic alert system and curve-speed reduction tech.

The 2024 Lexus GX received a significant upgrade in safety features, with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 as standard. It included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. The proactive driving assist feature further enhanced safety by braking the car as needed. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the GX's modern architecture and comprehensive ADAS instilled confidence in its safety offerings.