2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX retained a classic design that harkened back to its first-generation model from 2002, with only subtle updates like the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights distinguishing it from its predecessors. Inside, the cabin offered a blend of traditional and modern elements, maintaining the high-quality craftsmanship Lexus was known for. The interior was quiet, with the faint hum of the V8 engine being the only notable sound, and the materials used throughout the cabin exuded the silky refinement expected from the brand.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport embraced a modernist and reductive design philosophy, focusing on clean and simple lines. While it didn't cater to those seeking flashy aesthetics, it offered a sophisticated look with options like Eiger Grey paint and diamond-turned 23-inch wheels. Inside, the Range Rover Sport featured a luxurious Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and shiny black trim, creating an atmosphere of understated elegance. The cabin was equipped with advanced features, including heated and ventilated seats, and offered a high-tech appearance with sustainable materials like Ultrafabrics.

The 2022 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its hefty curb weight of 2,325 kilograms, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds, aided by its torque delivery at 3,500 rpm. The full-time 4WD system, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provided a 40/60 power split between the front and rear wheels. However, its boxy shape resulted in a high drag coefficient of 0.35, contributing to a fuel consumption estimate of 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The GX's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) enhanced its off-road capabilities and improved ride stability, though the steering and brake pedal required some acclimatization.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a more dynamic driving experience with its turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. The Range Rover Sport's towing capacity was 3,500 kilograms, and it achieved a fuel economy of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the evaluation route. The SUV's adaptive damping air suspension and new vehicle architecture provided a 35-percent increase in torsional stiffness, enhancing ride comfort and handling. However, the steering lacked involvement, and the Dynamic mode introduced some drivetrain lash and clunking.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat, providing excellent visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short dimensions made it maneuverable in various environments, though the steering required effort. The interior featured comfortable seats and physical controls, but the placement of stereo and off-roading knobs led to occasional confusion. The Black Line Special Edition added NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The rear seat was challenging to access, and the third-row seat was cramped, impacting cargo space. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, with limited cargo capacity behind the third row.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport maintained the Range Rover Command Driving Position, offering a tall and airy feel. The air suspension could kneel for easier entry and exit, and the front seats provided comfort with 20-way power adjustments and heating and ventilation. The rear seat, while improved, remained tight for taller passengers, and the seatback angle was too reclined. The cargo area offered 903 litres of space, expandable to 1,500 litres with the rear seats folded. The power liftgate and air suspension controls facilitated loading, and the SUV included practical storage solutions.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the dual-screen view and voice recognition technology were highlights. Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras enhanced convenience, though the GX lacked some advanced tech features found in competitors.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport boasted a 13.7-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with haptic feedback. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and connected services. However, the Pivi Pro system was often confusing and frustrating to use, with limited functionality from the digital assistant. The Meridian audio systems and Active Noise Cancellation impressed, and a wireless charging pad was included, though accessing it was challenging.

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its age, came equipped with Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in newer luxury SUVs, which could be a drawback for safety-conscious buyers.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured automatic high-beam headlights, a driver monitoring system, and a surround-view camera system with ClearSight Ground View. Remote Park Assist was available, allowing the SUV to park itself via a smartphone app. However, the adaptive cruise control and steering assist systems were not as refined as expected, with slow responses and occasional issues with lane centring.