2023 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX was a vehicle that commanded attention with its massive spindle grille and towering height of 1,885 millimetres. Its front end, with large headlights, seemed poised to conquer the road ahead. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design was more about rugged capability than opulence, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs suggesting a readiness for off-road adventures. The interior, however, was a mix of luxury and practicality, with heated and cooled seats and impressive leather upholstery, but also a surprising amount of plastic that detracted from its premium image.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester maintained a more utilitarian appearance, reminiscent of its predecessors. Its design was functional, with flared fenders and a narrow waist, but it lacked the aesthetic appeal of more modern SUVs. The Premier trim, however, added a touch of sophistication with 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome trim. Inside, the Forester offered a mix of practicality and comfort, with brown leather, metallic accents, and a user-friendly control layout. Despite its busy appearance, the Forester's design prioritized ease of use and functionality, making it a reliable choice for those seeking practicality over style.

The 2023 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre 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 V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery and a distinctive sound. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 12.3 on the highway. The GX's towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms was notable, but its weight and outdated design limited its agility. Despite this, the GX offered a predictable and controllable driving experience, with strong brakes and a capable 4WD system.

The 2023 Subaru Forester, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. While not particularly powerful, the Forester's engine was adequate for most driving situations. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by the X-Mode traction control system and all-terrain tires in the Wilderness trim. The Forester excelled in challenging weather conditions, providing confidence and stability. Its driving dynamics were commendable, with responsive steering and effective brakes, although a turbocharged engine would have been a welcome addition. The Forester's fuel economy was decent, but it fell short of official ratings, highlighting the need for a more efficient powertrain.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered a practical interior with ample storage space, including a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders. However, the lack of USB-C ports and the abundance of hard buttons could be seen as drawbacks. The second row was comfortable, but the third row was cramped and best suited for occasional use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 328 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,832 litres with all seats folded.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with features like a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable seats, and heated elements available in various trims. The Forester's interior was spacious, with excellent visibility and easy entry and exit. However, the panoramic sunroof's lack of tinting could lead to excessive heat, and the rear seats were less comfortable for taller passengers. The Forester excelled in cargo space, offering 762 litres behind the rear seats and up to 2,101 litres with seats folded, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. While an improvement over previous systems, it felt outdated compared to other Lexus models. The inclusion of a CD player and the lack of crisp graphics were notable drawbacks. However, the GX excelled in off-road technology, with a robust 4WD system, downhill assist, and a multi-terrain monitor.

The 2023 Subaru Forester offered a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. An 8-inch display with navigation and a premium audio system was available. The Forester's user interface was straightforward, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use knobs. However, the voice-recognition system was unreliable, making smartphone integration essential. Despite its simplicity, the Forester's technology was functional and user-friendly.

The 2023 Lexus GX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+, featuring automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. However, it lacked some advanced features like lane-tracing assist. The GX had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations, but its safety features were commendable.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured the next-generation EyeSight system, with adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency steering. Higher trims included a DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System. The Forester received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, although it fell short in some new tests. The NHTSA awarded it five-star crash-test ratings, highlighting its strong safety credentials.