2023 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a more conservative exterior design compared to some of Hyundai's other models. While it maintained an attractive appearance, it lacked the standout looks that characterized other vehicles in the brand's lineup. The SUV continued with the same design as the 2022 model, available in four trim levels in Canada, all featuring standard all-wheel drive. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim, tested in the U.S., showcased a distinctive wide grille and thin LED headlights, but the overall styling was more subdued. Inside, the black leather interior of the Calligraphy trim was high-quality but dark, with Nappa leather seats providing comfort and style. Heated and cooled front seats were standard, enhancing the driving experience.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold redesign, moving away from the softer lines of its predecessor. The new model featured geometric styling, with a less pronounced spindle grille and standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV a more aggressive look. The GX's side profile appeared as if carved from a solid block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for improved visibility. The interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The GX offered comfortable seating for six-foot-tall adults in the first and second rows, while the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, especially in the Overtrail models, which focused on off-roading capabilities.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version delivering 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged engine, available in the Urban and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, provided a significant performance boost, with immediate acceleration and no discernible turbo lag. The eight-speed "wet" dual-clutch automatic transmission contributed to a smooth driving experience, with no low-speed clunkiness. The Santa Fe's drive-mode selector allowed for customization, and the vehicle handled well, with minimal body lean during cornering. Towing capacity varied, with the turbo version capable of towing up to 1,587 kg.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The new powertrain offered impressive torque low in the rev range, enhancing off-road capabilities. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for improved stability. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated confidently, and the standard full-time four-wheel drive system included a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and advanced suspension technology for increased wheel articulation. The GX demonstrated controlled and relaxed behaviour on-road, with effective brakes and minimal body roll.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe prioritized spaciousness and comfort with its two-row configuration, offering 1,060 millimetres of rear-seat legroom and 1,032 litres of cargo space behind the second row. Folding the second row expanded storage to 2,041 litres. The SUV featured an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included advanced features like a head-up display, ambient lighting, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The panoramic sunroof was a highlight, though some drivers found the seating position and centre console design slightly restrictive.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist, with essential controls retained. It offered 1,047 millimetres of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row, while the third row was tight for adults. Cargo space was a strength, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 1,291 litres of total cargo capacity. The GX's design focused on off-road capability, with features like crawl control and a two-speed transfer case.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in technology, featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system in the top trims. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with customizable settings, though voice recognition had mixed results. The system struggled with certain commands, requiring specific terminology and sometimes shouting to achieve desired results.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface was easy to use, though some features required subscription plans after an initial trial. The GX offered a 10-speaker audio system, with higher trims featuring a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. The Drive Connect subscription service included an intelligent voice assistant, enhancing navigation and climate control.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added Highway Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Santa Fe received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS, with high marks in crashworthiness tests.

The 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety offerings with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The new proactive driving assist feature enhanced safety during highway driving. While the GX had not yet been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, its modern architecture and advanced safety systems inspired confidence.