2023 Lexus GX vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready design, reminiscent of its 1980s SUV roots. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its pickup truck lineage, sharing its underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma. This design choice was not due to stubbornness but rather a strategic decision by Toyota, which already had the Highlander for family duties, allowing the 4Runner to cater to off-road enthusiasts. Its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper were all functional design elements that emphasized its off-road capabilities. Inside, the 4Runner's interior was functional but dated, with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX boasted a commanding presence with its large spindle grille and 206 millimetres of ground clearance. The GX's design was sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky designs, with big, flared fenders adding to its chunky motif. Despite its luxury badge, the GX was engineered for off-road adventures, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs. Inside, the GX's interior was a mix of luxury and practicality, with some plastic materials betraying its premium status. However, it offered heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and impressive leather upholstery, maintaining a level of luxury expected from a Lexus.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, delivered power to a standard 4WD system with a low range. While the V6 was reliable, it felt underwhelming in most driving situations, except when off-road, where its suspension excelled in absorbing rough terrain. The 4Runner's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, which was more than most car-based crossovers but less than compact pickups.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 4.6-litre V8 engine, generating 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery. The GX's towing capacity was 2,948 kilograms, making it more capable than most three-row crossovers. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable but noticeable body roll, and its brakes were strong and reliable. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential enhanced its 4WD system, making it user-friendly in various conditions.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in its two-row version, with 1,337 litres available with the second-row seats in use. The three-row version reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-operated rear window for easy access. While not the most spacious, the 4Runner provided ample storage for gear.

The 2023 Lexus GX had a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders, but its USB ports were outdated. The GX's physical controls were a blessing for those who preferred hard buttons over touchscreens. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs and good legroom, but the third row was tight and best suited for emergencies. The GX's side-hinged rear door required effort to open, and its cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the rear seats and 1,832 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While not the most advanced, it offered tactile controls, which were appreciated by those who preferred simplicity. The system lacked a head-up display but covered the tech basics.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a significant improvement over its predecessor. It included SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. However, the system lagged behind newer Lexus models, and its graphics were less crisp. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and a multi-terrain monitor.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. It earned four out of five stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA and three stars for rollover testing.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it featured the Lexus Safety System+ with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date.