2023 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox presented itself as an attractive crossover, even if it lacked the futuristic design of some competitors. Its restrained bodywork was complemented by a chunky front end, making the grille appear smaller and more refined. The gold Bowtie emblem varied in appeal depending on the paint colour, with Blue Glow Metallic and Harvest Brown Metallic being particularly flattering. The Equinox was available in four trims, with AWD options for Canadian buyers. Its design shared elements with the larger Chevrolet Traverse, offering a sense of spaciousness with big windows and a thick C-pillar. Inside, the Premier trim featured two-tone leather upholstery and standard heated front seats, though the interior felt somewhat dated with its small touchscreen and plastic buttons. Despite this, the Equinox was practical and user-friendly, with a traditional PRNDL shift lever and ample cupholders.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold geometric design, moving away from the softer lines of its predecessor. The spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's front fascia stood more vertically, giving it an aggressive look, while the hood's design aided off-road visibility. The side profile was minimalistic, with a low window beltline enhancing visibility. The GX was offered in a single trim with five packages, focusing on luxury or off-roading. The interior combined luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions. While less luxurious than some competitors, the GX was built for durability and off-road capability.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox was powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. While it handled low-speed acceleration well, it struggled at higher speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission held gears longer, contributing to engine noise. AWD was available but required manual activation. The Equinox featured an electronically assisted brake-by-wire system, offering smooth braking, and its suspension handled bumps well. Steering was tight and accurate, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2024 Lexus GX, meanwhile, transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The torque was accessible low in the rev range, enhancing off-road performance. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered stability on and off-road. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time 4WD. The Overtrail packages added advanced suspension technology, improving wheel articulation. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, with effective brakes and minimal body roll.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox offered 847 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,809 litres with seats folded. Passenger space was ample, with good headroom and legroom. The interior used quality plastics, and the Premier trim included a power liftgate. A panoramic sunroof was optional on most trims.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a minimalist interior with essential physical controls. It provided 1,047 mm of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row, while the third row was tight for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,178 litres total. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 1,291 litres available.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox's technology was straightforward, with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Premier trim included a wireless charging pad, and a Bose audio system was optional.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with subscription-based services for voice assistance and remote features. Higher trims included a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox came with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. However, it lacked level two autonomous driving and received mixed crash test ratings, with a Poor score from the IIHS.

The 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety offerings with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning. While not yet crash-tested, its modern architecture and ADAS features inspired confidence.