2024 Lexus TX vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant shift in design from its predecessors, presenting a more assertive and truck-like appearance. It was longer and wider, with a muscular stance that was visually evident due to its extended wheelbase and wider tracks. The classic D-pillar taillights were modernized with three L shapes, contributing to a more aggressive look. The rear end appeared blockier, complementing the bold front fascia, and all lighting elements were upgraded to LED. The Hybrid Touring trim, tested in Canyon River Blue, featured sporty elements like black roof rails and mirrors, dual chrome exhaust finishers, and 19-inch wheels, enhancing its robust aesthetic. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid followed the premium design direction seen in other Honda models, with high-quality materials and attractive contrast stitching, creating a refined cabin environment.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, offered a distinct luxury SUV experience. It featured upscale styling with 22-inch silver-finished wheels that enhanced its presence. The TX's design was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down aesthetic. Available in various trims, including the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, the TX catered to different preferences and budgets. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard AWD. The interior, while luxurious, had a dark tone due to the Peppercorn colour scheme and black-grained trim, which could feel too sombre despite the panoramic glass sunroof. The TX's cabin was equipped with premium features, ensuring it met the expectations of a luxury SUV.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a simplified powertrain choice, featuring either a turbocharged or hybrid system. The hybrid variant combined a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful CR-V to date. It could reach speeds of up to 185 km/h and had a towing capacity of 450 kilograms. The CR-V Hybrid was equipped with a CVT and four drive modes, including a new Snow mode, enhancing its adaptability to different driving conditions. The updated AWD system could send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels, improving traction. The CR-V Hybrid also featured a "B" shifter position for increased regenerative braking, contributing to its impressive fuel efficiency of 6.4 L/100 km combined.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately eight seconds, with performance described as adequate. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 L/100 km combined, slightly better than its predecessor, the RX L. During testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km, with the ride and handling praised for their balance between firmness and comfort. The TX 350's suspension provided commendable body motion control, and the steering was accurate and responsive. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops. The interior remained quiet on the highway, contributing to a pleasant driving experience.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid's larger exterior translated to increased interior space, offering 1,028 litres of cargo space with rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. This was slightly less than the gas-only CR-V but competitive with other hybrids. The Touring model featured a hands-free power tailgate and wide-opening rear doors for easy access. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 mm, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The reclining rear seats offered eight positions, optimizing headroom and cargo space. The cabin included practical storage solutions, such as a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders, with a console providing best-in-class storage.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs, offering a more spacious and comfortable interior. The TX 350 test unit featured premium leather and suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. The second-row bench seat was comfortable, though not as welcoming as the front seats. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, with adequate leg support and large side windows. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded and 2,746 litres with the second row down. The cabin included numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid catered to consumer preferences with physical buttons for key functions. It featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with volume and tuning knobs, while higher trims had a 9-inch display with a volume knob. The CR-V Hybrid was well-equipped with USB ports, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, heated mirrors, and seats. The Touring trim added advanced features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Honda's smart navigation system optimized fuel efficiency based on the route.

The 2024 Lexus TX offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional features in the Executive packages. The 14-inch touchscreen display was part of the Lexus Interface infotainment system, which included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Drive Connect subscription added cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. The TX also provided free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, with Remote Connect free for three years. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and rain-sensing wipers. The Honda Sensing suite included improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New features for 2023 included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid also had blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic monitor, and rear-seat reminders. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA, with additional structural enhancements for crash protection.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist provided braking and steering assistance, though it was not always transparent. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit assist. Optional features in the Executive packages included parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The LSS+ 3.0 system was generally smooth and effective, though it could be overly cautious in certain situations.