2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2023 Genesis GV70 showcased a design that cleverly connected it to its sedan counterpart, the G70, particularly above the belt-line. Its split-bar headlights and a strong chrome line that curved from behind the rear window visually linked the GV70 to the G70, suggesting a coupe-like SUV without sacrificing versatility. Inside, the GV70's cabin was a testament to luxury, featuring top-notch materials and an aesthetic that was both contemporary and classic. The climate controls were integrated into a curving bezel, and the touchscreen rose organically from the dash, complemented by a rotary dial and button controls on the centre console.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a more geometric styling, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor. The new design featured a less pronounced spindle grille, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights, and a more aggressive front fascia. The GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The dashboard was flat and upright, with a large 14-inch touchscreen taking centre stage, surrounded by rotary knobs for climate control and stereo volume. The GX's design was less luxurious than some competitors but exuded a premium feel, ready for rugged use.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered two powertrains: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV70 balanced comfort and sharp handling, providing a refined driving experience. The Electrified GV70 featured a 77.4-kWh battery powering two electric motors, generating a combined 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower for short bursts. It offered a range of 383 kilometres and could fast charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes.

The 2024 Lexus GX, now equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine, produced 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, offering more power than its predecessor's V8. The GX utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing confident and assertive gear shifts. Standard full-time four-wheel drive and a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for improved wheel articulation and stability. The GX demonstrated impressive acceleration and braking, with a composed on-road performance despite its off-road prowess.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 1,611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 818 litres with the seats in use, making it competitive in the compact luxury SUV segment. The GV70 featured a hands-free power liftgate, large cupholders in the centre console, and a retractable tray. While front-seat comfort was easily adjustable, rear-seat legroom was tighter, requiring front-row occupants to adjust their seats for rear passenger comfort.

The 2024 Lexus GX offered a more spacious interior, with 1,047 millimetres of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row. The third row, available in certain packages, was tight for adults, with only 810 mm of legroom. The GX excelled in cargo space, offering 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded, and a total of 2,178 litres. Overtrail models provided even more space, with 1,291 litres of total cargo capacity.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menus, complemented by a rotary dial and helpful buttons. The GV70 included four USB ports, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system, with options for ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and an 18-speaker Lexicon audio system.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a voice assistant and required a subscription for Drive Connect services. The GX featured multiple USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt AC outlet. The standard audio system had 10 speakers, with higher packages offering a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. Subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and highway driving assist. The GV70 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.

The 2024 Lexus GX saw significant improvements in safety, with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 standard across all models. It included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. While not yet crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, the GX's modern architecture and advanced safety features inspired confidence in its safety offerings.