2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant shift in design from its predecessors. It presented a more assertive and truck-like appearance, stretching about 6 centimetres longer and over a centimetre wider than the previous model. This new generation retained the classic D-pillar taillights, now featuring three L shapes for a modern look. The CR-V Hybrid Touring trim, driven in a deep Canyon River Blue, showcased black roof rails, mirrors, dual chrome exhaust finishers, and 19-inch black wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid followed the design cues of the 2022 Civic and 2023 HR-V, with a premium feel and high-quality materials, including contrast stitching on the seats and steering wheel.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX underwent a dramatic redesign, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor to embrace a geometric styling. The new GX featured a less pronounced spindle grille, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV a more aggressive look. The GX's profile appeared as if carved from a solid block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for better visibility. The interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The GX offered a spacious cabin for the first and second rows, while the third row was more suitable for children. Cargo space was generous, especially in the Overtrail models, which focused on off-roading capabilities.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a simplified powertrain lineup, featuring a hybrid system that combined a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 185 km/h. The hybrid powertrain was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and included four drive modes: Sport, Normal, Econ, and Snow. The updated Real Time AWD system could send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels, and the CR-V Hybrid was rated for towing up to 450 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with an estimated consumption of 6.0 L/100 km in the city, 6.9 on the highway, and 6.4 combined.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, replaced its V8 engine with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The GX was built on the GA-F truck platform, providing a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time 4WD with a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced off-road capability. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, despite its weight of 2,570 kilograms. Off-road testing was limited due to weather conditions, but the GX demonstrated its potential for rugged terrain.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid's larger exterior translated to increased interior volume, offering 1,028 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 millimetres, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The CR-V featured a hands-free power tailgate, wide-opening rear doors, and a well-designed interior with ample storage, including a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The first and second rows provided ample space for six-foot-tall adults, while the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded, and a total of 2,178 litres. The Overtrail models offered even more cargo capacity, with 1,291 litres of total space.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display with physical volume and tuning knobs, while the EX-L and Hybrid Touring trims had a 9-inch touchscreen with a volume knob. The CR-V Hybrid was well-equipped with USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system. The Hybrid Touring trim also included Honda's smart navigation system for optimized fuel efficiency.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen integrated into the dash, with USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a voice assistant. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, while the Luxury, Overtrail+, and Executive packages included a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. However, some features required subscription plans after an initial trial period.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. It also had a blind-spot monitoring system, rear-seat reminder, and new airbags for added protection. The CR-V Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. The GX was built on the modern GA-F architecture, providing a solid foundation for safety. However, it had not yet been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.