2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, following its 2019 redesign, adopted a more robust and angular appearance, moving away from the softer crossover styling of its predecessors. The trapezoidal grille, inspired by Toyota's truck line, added a sense of heft, complemented by beveled and angled bodywork that framed the headlights. This design choice initially stood out, but over time, other manufacturers like Honda and Mazda adopted similar aesthetics. The RAV4 Hybrid's interior continued the angular theme with a multi-tiered dashboard featuring beveled cutouts, adding visual interest to an otherwise straightforward layout. While the materials used were average for its class, the build quality was solid, with no noticeable creaks or squeaks during drives.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented itself as a luxury SUV with a more upscale appearance. The TX's styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who found previous designs too bold. The TX 350 model, which was likely to be the most popular, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive. The interior of the TX 350, especially with the Ultra Luxury package, offered premium semi-aniline leather upholstery and upgraded ambient lighting. Despite some criticisms about the dark interior and lack of a massage function in the front seats, the TX provided a comfortable and luxurious experience, with a third-row seat that was genuinely usable by adults.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor/generator, delivering a combined 219 horsepower. This setup allowed the RAV4 Hybrid to accelerate to 100 km/h in approximately 7.5 seconds, making it about half a second quicker than the standard RAV4. The hybrid powertrain offered a smooth ride, with regenerative braking that seamlessly transitioned to physical brakes when needed. The suspension provided a comfortable ride over bumps and potholes, ensuring a calm and effortless driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in roughly eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered ample space for front passengers, while the rear seats comfortably accommodated average-sized adults. It provided slightly more rear headroom than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage, though legroom was a bit less. The cargo space was generous, with 1,059 litres available behind the rear seats, and the interior featured numerous storage options for personal items. Dual-zone climate control was standard on all trims except the base Hybrid LE.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs by offering a genuinely usable third-row seat for adults. The TX 350 test unit featured premium materials and standard heated and ventilated front seats, with options for captain’s chairs in the second row. The third-row seat provided adequate leg support and a good view, while the TX offered 572 litres of cargo space behind it. With the third-row seats folded, the cargo space expanded to 1,625 litres, and with the second-row seats down, it reached an impressive 2,746 litres. The interior also included numerous storage compartments, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid introduced a new multimedia infotainment system with modern graphics and logical menu arrangements. Most trims featured an 8.0-inch display, while higher trims upgraded to a 10.5-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with an optional wireless charging pad. The system supported over-the-air updates and included a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote vehicle monitoring. Higher trims also offered an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2024 Lexus TX came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, when paired with a Drive Connect subscription, offered cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, and the TX provided free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system delivered impressive sound quality, making it a worthwhile upgrade for audiophiles.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid received high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection, and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which included features like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added features like parking sensors and a surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, while options included parking sensors and traffic jam assist. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways, though Lexus did not offer a higher-speed hands-free system for the TX.