2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 offered a variety of trim levels in Canada, ranging from the RAV4 LE priced just over $35,000 to the more luxurious 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 its US equivalent, 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, enhancing the otherwise basic interior. The RAV4 provided a range of upholstery options, from fabric in the LE and XLE trims to synthetic leather in the XLE Premium package, with the Limited trim offering heated and ventilated power-adjustable seats.

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 preferred a subtler design. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard AWD. The Ultra Luxury package added premium interior features, while the Executive packages offered additional seating configurations. The TX's interior was luxurious, with premium materials and a spacious third-row seat, making it more accommodating than previous Lexus three-row SUVs. However, the second-row legroom was limited, and the storage compartments lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with AWD across all trims, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the RAV4's performance was adequate but not particularly exciting. The engine was noisier than some competitors, but the RAV4's suspension provided a comfortable ride with its MacPherson independent front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 L/100 km in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The suspension offered a balance between firmness and comfort, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

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 ample legroom in the front at 1,039 mm, but the rear legroom of 960 mm was less than some competitors. The RAV4 excelled in storage options, with a shelf running the length of the glove compartment and generous door pockets. Cargo space was 1,059 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, though the front seats lacked a massage function. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat lower cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third-row seats folded, and 2,746 litres with the second-row seats down. However, the second-row legroom was limited, and the storage compartments lacked lining.

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 voice command and over-the-air updates. The Limited trim also featured an 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system and a 12.3-inch driver-information display.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a digital assistant and cloud-based navigation through a Drive Connect subscription. The TX offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system was available in the Executive package.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with standard safety features, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It was equipped with the TSS 2.5 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, which included Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.

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. Proactive Drive Assist was also part of the system, providing braking and steering assistance. The TX featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system offered hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.