2023 Lexus RX vs 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, marked its fifth generation with a design that was shorter in height but broader 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 reduced rear overhang and softer design lines, with a floating roof effect contributing to a stubby look. The front featured a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, with a modern mesh texture and elevated hood. The rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper.

Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials were evident, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede. The RX was available in several trims, including hybrid and performance variants, with pricing starting at $58,650 for the RX 350. The interior was sophisticated, with features like heated and ventilated seats, and a focus on comfort and luxury.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a radical design departure, embracing a boxy shape for optimal storage. This design was upscale and attention-grabbing, with sophisticated exterior colours and anodized-finish badging. The Santa Fe was more aerodynamically efficient than its predecessor, with trims offering various wheel sizes and finishes. The interior was premium, with the XRT and Ultimate Calligraphy trims showcasing high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements like a cocooning fabric headliner.

The Santa Fe's interior was spacious, with a focus on cargo capacity inspired by the "chabak" concept. The design allowed for comfortable car camping and tailgating, with a wide tailgate and ample storage. The first and second rows were roomy, while the third row was snug. Depending on the trim, seating options included stain-resistant cloth, synthetic leather, and quilted Nappa leather. The cargo area offered significant space, with innovative features like a UV sanitization compartment.

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. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 100 km/h in about 7.3 seconds, with a fuel economy of 9.9 L/100 km combined. The F Sport 3 trim offered enhanced handling with an adaptive suspension and upgraded brakes, providing a more secure driving experience.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a hybrid powertrain as the entry-level option, with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. Higher trims featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. AWD was standard, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, and Snow. The Santa Fe Hybrid achieved a combined fuel economy of 6.9 L/100 km, while the gas powertrain consumed 10.6 L/100 km combined. The XRT trim provided additional off-road capability and towing capacity.

The 2023 Lexus RX offered comfortable seating with premium materials, including semi-aniline leather and NuLuxe simulated leather. The RX 350 Executive featured luxury seat designs with ten-way power adjustment, while the F Sport 3 had sportier seats. The back seat was roomy, though headroom was tight for taller passengers. Cargo space measured 838 litres with the second row up and 1,308 litres with it folded.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe prioritized cargo space, with a longer wheelbase and body. The design allowed for a spacious cargo area, with 413 litres available, expanding to 2,267 litres with seats folded. The interior offered various seating options, with heated and ventilated front seats standard on higher trims. The Santa Fe included thoughtful storage solutions and a UV sanitization compartment.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the Lexus Interface multimedia system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. The system allowed for user profiles and streaming music apps. A 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system was available, along with digital instrumentation and a head-up display.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a curved panoramic display, with trims above the base model featuring a 12-speaker Bose stereo and wireless charging. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Hyundai’s BlueLink system offering vehicle access and information. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim provided additional wireless chargers and advanced features.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driving assistance features like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. New technologies included motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. The system had some limitations, such as issues with polarized sunglasses affecting HUD visibility.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe included standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and forward collision-avoidance assist. Higher trims added a 360-degree camera system and remote automatic parking. The Santa Fe was the first Hyundai with driver monitoring, ensuring driver alertness and safety.