2023 Toyota Sienna vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX made a bold statement with its massive spindle grille and 206 millimetres of ground clearance, standing tall at 1,885 millimetres. Its front end appeared ready to conquer the road, with large headlights framing its distinctive face. The GX Black Line Special Edition, limited to 3,000 units, returned with new paint options, including Eminent White Pearl. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design seemed more suited for rugged terrains, with a short 2,789-millimetre wheelbase and minimal overhangs. The interior, however, was a mix of luxury and practicality, featuring heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery, though it was let down by an abundance of plastic materials.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to shed its minivan image with a design reminiscent of a Japanese bullet train. It offered a variety of trims, including the new 25th Anniversary Special Edition. The Sienna's interior was a haven of practicality, with ample storage solutions and high-quality materials. It provided seating for seven or eight passengers, with the option for three-across car seats in the middle row. The Sienna's design focused on family-friendly features, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing space and functionality.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't boast the most impressive figures on paper, the V8's linear power delivery and satisfying sound were highlights. However, its 2,948-kilogram towing capacity and fuel economy of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city left room for improvement. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable handling, and its Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential enhanced its 4WD capabilities.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motors, producing 245 net system horsepower. While it lacked the power of some competitors, the Sienna's chassis and steering impressed with nimble handling and a comfortable ride. The Sienna offered various drive modes, but its CVT and lackluster acceleration were drawbacks. Despite these, the Sienna's light steering and tidy turning radius made it a joy to drive in urban settings.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered practical interior storage, with a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders. However, its USB ports were outdated, and the third-row seats were too tight for regular use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 328 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,832 litres with both rows folded.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and storage solutions. It featured a large open cubby, a long dash shelf, and numerous cupholders. The Sienna's minivan platform provided 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,860 litres with seats folded. The second-row captain's chairs were functional and comfortable, with extending ottomans and sliding tracks for added flexibility.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated. While the 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, it lagged behind newer Lexus models. The GX included features like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility, but its tech offerings were overshadowed by its off-road capabilities, including a real 4WD system and Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna relied on an older infotainment interface, offering core features like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. While the interface felt clunky, it was reliable, and the 9-inch touchscreen didn't appear undersized. The Sienna's technology was functional, with a 12-speaker JBL audio system providing good sound quality.

The 2023 Lexus GX lacked crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were commendable.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in safety, earning a 5-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS. It came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. While competitors offered additional features, the Sienna's safety technology was impressive.