2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX presented a commanding presence 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, framed by large headlights that accentuated 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 leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs, making it easier to navigate technical terrains. However, the interior's excessive plastic detracted from its luxury status, though it still offered features like heated and cooled seats and impressive leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid, with a base price of $48,909, offered a more affordable electrified SUV option. Its sporty black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim gave it a modern look, though the interior remained basic. The Touring Hybrid, priced at $50,909, featured Canyon River Blue paint and a sophisticated rear design with Volvo-like taillights. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid boasted leather seats with orange stitching, a soft-touch dashboard, and a metal mesh covering the air vents, exuding quality. Despite its conservative styling, the CR-V Hybrid's design was practical and upscale, with a focus on comfort and functionality.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its robust V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't excel on paper compared to newer engines, the GX's V8 offered a satisfying sound and linear power delivery. However, its 2,948-kilogram towing capacity and fuel economy of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city were less impressive. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable handling, and its Torsen limited-slip differential enhanced its 4WD capabilities, making it suitable for off-road adventures.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a fourth-generation two-motor hybrid system, combining a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower. This complex system aimed to improve fuel efficiency, with an estimated 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. However, real-world testing showed a higher consumption of 8.7 L/100 km. The CR-V Hybrid offered a quiet and compliant ride, with impressive grip and braking performance. While its steering was heavy, the CR-V Hybrid was easy to drive, though it lacked the off-road capabilities of the GX.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space, with a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders. However, it lacked modern USB-C ports, and its third-row seats were too tight for regular use. The GX's cargo space was limited, offering 328 litres behind the rear seats and 1,832 litres with all seats folded. Its side-hinged trunk door required effort to open, and the overall interior space was less than a Toyota RAV4.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid excelled in form and function, with quality materials and intuitive controls. It featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front and rear seats, and dual-zone climate control. The CR-V's back seat was spacious, with generous legroom and USB-C charging ports. Its cargo area offered 1,028 litres, expanding to 2,030 litres with the back seat folded, making it one of the most spacious in its class.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, revamped in 2022, already felt dated. Its 10.3-inch touchscreen offered standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The GX's off-road capabilities were its highlight, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and a multi-terrain monitor. However, its tech offerings were overshadowed by newer Lexus models.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with a 9-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. While the voice recognition system was basic, the CR-V Hybrid's tech was user-friendly, with features like walk-away automatic locking providing peace of mind.

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 up-to-date, though it missed some top-end features.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid boasted Honda Sensing, with features like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It also included blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The CR-V Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick award from IIHS, though it fell short of the top award due to a poor rating in the updated moderate overlap front test.