2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was available in four trim levels in Canada, ranging from the RAV4 LE at just over $35,000 to the RAV4 Limited, which exceeded $45,000. The design remained consistent with the 2019 model, particularly in the Trail trim, which featured a distinctive two-part face. The Trail trim, tested in the US, showcased a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional rugged styling elements, although it was more about appearance than off-road capability. Inside, the Trail trim added orange accents and contrast stitching, while the Limited trim offered a more premium feel with features like heated and ventilated seats.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX underwent a significant redesign, moving away from the softer lines of its predecessor to embrace a more geometric and aggressive look. The new GX featured a less pronounced spindle grille, standard triple-beam LED headlights, and a more vertical front fascia. The interior was minimalist yet sophisticated, with a focus on off-road capability. The GX was offered in a single trim level with five packages, catering to both luxury and off-road enthusiasts. The Overtrail packages emphasized off-road prowess with features like 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, while the Luxury package focused on comfort with 22-inch wheels and ambient lighting.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with all-wheel drive across all trims, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which, while preferable to a CVT, did not excel in acceleration. The RAV4 Trail trim featured 19-inch wheels with all-season tires and shared the same suspension setup as other RAV4 models, making it more of a hopeful off-roader than a true performer.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, replaced its previous V8 engine with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provided impressive low-end torque, enhancing off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel drive, and advanced off-road systems like the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced wheel articulation. The GX demonstrated strong acceleration and effective braking, although its weight required caution on long descents.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was designed to seat five, offering 958 mm of front headroom and 1,001 mm in the rear with the moonroof. It provided 1,039 mm of front legroom and 960 mm in the second row, with ample storage options for front passengers. Cargo space was competitive, with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a more minimalist interior with fewer physical buttons, focusing on essential controls. It offered 1,047 mm of front legroom and 933 mm in the second row, with a third row available in certain packages, though it was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, providing 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded, and a total of 2,178 litres. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 1,291 litres of total cargo capacity.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen as standard, upgraded to a 10.5-inch screen in the Limited trim. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with connected services like Safety Connect. The Trail trim did not receive the upgraded system, which was reserved for the Limited trim with an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included multiple USB-C ports and a 120-volt outlet in the trunk. The system required a subscription for certain services, and higher trims offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for long-term use were a consideration.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with the TSS 2.5 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, demonstrating strong safety performance.

The 2024 Lexus GX received a significant upgrade in safety features 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 new architecture and advanced systems inspired confidence in its safety capabilities.