2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2023 Subaru Outback underwent a notable facelift, featuring a redesigned front end with new LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark gray cladding. This gave the Outback a more aggressive appearance, especially with the addition of a simulated skid plate and fog lights in oversized housings. The Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, complemented the bold design changes, offering a more cohesive look. The interior of the Limited trim was praised for its upscale feel, with premium Nappa leather and contrasting stitching, creating a cohesive and luxurious environment.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a geometric styling overhaul, moving away from the softer lines of its predecessor. The new design featured a less pronounced spindle grille, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's front fascia stood more vertically, contributing to a robust and aggressive look. The interior was minimalist yet sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons and a focus on essential controls. The GX offered a spacious cabin for front and second-row passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, especially in the Overtrail models.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured horizontally opposed engines, known for their flat design and characteristic sound. The standard 2.5-litre engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, but it struggled with acceleration and fuel efficiency, achieving 9.2 L/100 km in real-world testing. The turbocharged XT models offered a more satisfying 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, though at a higher cost and reduced fuel efficiency. The Outback's AWD system and X-Mode traction system enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it adept at handling challenging terrains.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provided impressive torque at low revs, enhancing off-road performance. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stable and composed ride both on and off-road. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and the standard 4WD system included a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Overtrail packages added advanced suspension technology, improving wheel articulation and off-road stability.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and practical interior storage. The Limited trim offered comfortable seating with power adjustments and heating, wrapped in premium Nappa leather. The Outback provided ample cargo space, with 923 litres behind the rear seats and 2,141 litres with them folded. The vehicle's design facilitated easy entry and exit, and the roof rack was ready for various accessories.

The 2024 Lexus GX showcased a refined interior with a focus on essential controls. It offered comfortable seating for adults in the first two rows, with 1,047 mm of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row. The third row was tight, suitable for children. The GX excelled in cargo capacity, with 1,138 litres available with the third row folded, expanding to 2,178 litres in total. Overtrail models offered even more space, emphasizing practicality.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured a Starlink 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from the Touring trim upwards. The system included physical controls for essential functions, though the voice recognition system was lacking. Additional technologies included a digital rearview mirror and a front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was absent.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface included an intelligent voice assistant and subscription-based services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect. The GX offered a 10-speaker audio system, with higher trims featuring a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2023 Subaru Outback excelled in safety, earning top marks from the IIHS. It featured the EyeSight system with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The system also included new pedestrian and cyclist detection capabilities. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems were noted for their artificial steering feel.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. While not yet crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, the GX's modern architecture and comprehensive ADAS instilled confidence in its safety offerings.