2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, marked its fifth generation with a design that was shorter in height, broader in width, and longer in wheelbase compared to its predecessor. Despite maintaining the same overall length, it offered more cargo space than the 2022 model, though still less than its competitors. The RX appeared smaller due to its reduced rear overhang and softer design lines, complemented by a floating roof effect created by the down-sloping black trim on the rear pillar. The front featured a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, with a modern mesh texture and an elevated hood. The rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper, maintaining a familiar yet fresh Lexus RX identity.

Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen displays. The quality was high, with standard NuLuxe artificial leather and available genuine leather or simulated suede. The RX 350, RX 350h, and RX 500h models offered various trims, with Canadian pricing starting at $58,650. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid was anticipated but not immediately available.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler, with its fourth-generation JL design, maintained a rugged aesthetic with its boxy shape and iconic seven-slot grille. Available in two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for door removal and offered optional half doors for better visibility. The windshield could fold down, and various top options provided open-air experiences. The tailgate swung out, and the rear glass lifted for easy cargo access. The Wrangler introduced new colours like "Reign" purple and "Earl" grey, adding flair to its functional design.

Inside, the Wrangler prioritized practicality with easy-to-clean materials and straightforward controls. The body-coloured dash and chunky HVAC controls added to its utilitarian charm. While ambient lighting and massaging seats were absent, the Wrangler offered a comfortable and functional interior for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 AWD demonstrated a 0-100 km/h time of approximately 7.3 seconds, with a combined fuel economy estimate of 9.9 L/100 km. The RX 350 Executive trim occasionally exhibited torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport 3 trim, with its adaptive suspension, provided a more secure and comfortable ride. Both models had 21-inch wheels with 235/50 all-season tires, and the F Sport 3's upgraded brakes offered superior pedal feel.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including a standard Pentastar V6 with 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 featured a 6.4-litre V8 engine with 470 horsepower and torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in about 4.5 seconds. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid provided 35 km of all-electric range. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by solid axles, optional differential lockers, and various transfer cases, with the Xtreme Recon package offering a crawl ratio of 58:1. However, the 392's brakes and steering were less refined, requiring early braking and careful steering input.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport 3's sport seat bolsters providing additional support. The RX 350 Executive featured premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The RX 350 F Sport 3 had black NuLuxe simulated leather seats and a thick-rimmed heated steering wheel. Both models provided ample rear seat comfort, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The RX's cargo space measured 838 litres with the rear seats up and 1,308 litres with them folded.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, with heated options available in higher trims or through a cold-weather package. The rear seat was tight, especially in the four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. The Wrangler's cargo space was 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded. The hard top could be removed in sections, and the soft top offered various configurations for open-air driving. The Sky One-Touch power soft top provided quick access to fresh air, while the Wrangler's charging points included USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface multimedia system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The Drive Connect plan offered Intelligent Assistant voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles allowed for personalized settings, and the Mark Levinson premium sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The RX also offered a colour head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and digital key technology.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen. Uconnect provided off-road pages with detailed information, and connectivity options included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Wrangler's tech was practical, with a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories, but lacked advanced features like a digital key.

The 2023 Lexus RX included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring lane departure warning, automatic high beams, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist were also available. However, the system had some limitations, such as unmarked adaptive cruise controls and non-predictive curve-speed reduction technology.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's standard safety features included a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Optional features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control were available in higher trims or as part of a package. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with some trims' headlights receiving a Poor ranking.