2023 Honda HR-V vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling transformation, shedding some of its quirky charm for a more sophisticated and modern appearance. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to a sleeker look, with cleaner lines and fewer interruptions. The windshield wipers were discreetly tucked under the hood's lip, and the black molding strips on the roof were removed. The test model was showcased in a dusky, oceanic grey-green called Nordic Forest Pearl, one of two new colours. Inside, the HR-V featured black cloth seats with heated front seats and side mirrors as standard. The EX-L trim, which was tested, boasted perforated leather seats with additional shoulder support, enhancing the cabin's comfort. The interior design followed the refinement trend set by the 2022 Civic, with premium touches like a metal honeycomb grille and touch-sensitive lights.

The 2023 Lexus GX made a bold statement with its massive spindle grille and substantial ground clearance, giving it a commanding road presence. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units and available in three paint colours, including the exclusive Nori Green Pearl. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's interior featured a surprising amount of plastic, reflecting its low sales volume and the need for cost-effective manufacturing. However, it still offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery. The GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs, making it easier to navigate technical driving situations.

The 2023 Honda HR-V was powered by a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) featured a Step-Shift function to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. The HR-V offered multiple drive modes, including Normal, Snow, ECON, and Sport, each tailored for different driving conditions. The new suspension system and widened tracks contributed to a surprisingly enjoyable driving experience, although the HR-V was not overpowered. Competitors like the Kia Seltos and Subaru Crosstrek offered more powertrain options, including turbocharged engines.

The Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 provided a satisfying driving experience with its linear power delivery. The GX's towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms was impressive, but its fuel economy was less so, with estimates of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. The GX's weight affected its handling, but its roll was predictable and controllable. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and 4WD system enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it suitable for various terrains.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a centre console featuring a shelf for drive mode controls and USB ports. The fastback design sacrificed some rear-seat headroom, but the HR-V still provided ample cargo space, with 691 litres with the rear seats up and 1,559 litres with them folded. The second-generation HR-V introduced a new hinge for the 60/40 split rear seats, creating a nearly flat floor when folded. Passenger volume varied slightly between trims, with the EX-L offering a bit more space. Front-row legroom improved, while rear-seat legroom decreased slightly.

The Lexus GX retained ample cubby space for small items, with a deep centre console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. The decision to use hard buttons instead of haptic-touch interfaces was a practical choice, though the abundance of buttons required some getting used to. The centre console lid featured adjustable sliding mechanisms for added comfort. The second row offered good legroom and headroom, but the third row was too tight for regular use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,322 litres with the third row folded and 1,832 litres with both rows down.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a tablet-style touchscreen for its infotainment system, with physical knobs for power and volume. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims, with wireless versions available on the EX-L. The EX-L also boasted a 9-inch infotainment display, a wireless charging pad, and an eight-speaker audio system. The HR-V included a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and a 7-inch colour touchscreen display, with the EX-L offering a larger 9-inch display. Standard features included three USB-A ports, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry, and remote start.

The Lexus GX's infotainment system, revamped in 2022, already felt dated compared to other Lexus models. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was still present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. The GX included three years of Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. However, the inclusion of a CD player highlighted the outdated technology. The GX excelled in off-road capability, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System for improved driving dynamics.

The 2023 Honda HR-V came standard with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. New features for 2023 included traffic-sign recognition, traffic jam assist, and automatic high-beams. The HR-V received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, though the NHTSA had not yet rated it.

The 2023 Lexus GX, despite its older design, featured the Lexus Safety System+ with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. While lacking some top-end features, the GX's safety systems were commendable. However, it had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.