2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

The 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, shedding its traditional image with a design reminiscent of a Japanese bullet train. Toyota offered various trims, including the sporty XSE with 20-inch wheels, and the 25th Anniversary Special Edition. Inside, the Sienna impressed with high-quality materials, such as brown leather upholstery and wood-grain accents. It accommodated seven or eight passengers, with the eight-seater supporting three-across car seats in the middle row.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold, geometric design, moving away from its predecessor's softer lines. The new model featured a less pronounced spindle grille and standard triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's design was more aggressive, with a flat hood and minimal character lines. It was available in a single trim with five packages, focusing on luxury and off-roading capabilities. The interior combined luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motors, producing 245 horsepower. While the power seemed modest, the Sienna's chassis and steering offered a surprisingly nimble driving experience. The CVT, however, was less impressive, with lacklustre acceleration compared to competitors. The Sienna offered multiple drive modes, but Normal mode was recommended for the best balance.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX provided a stable ride both on and off-road. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time 4WD. The Overtrail packages included advanced suspension systems for enhanced off-road performance. The GX excelled in acceleration and braking, maintaining composure on various terrains.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior storage, with numerous cubbies and bins. It offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,860 litres with seats folded. The second-row captain’s chairs were functional, with extending ottomans and sliding capabilities for added comfort. The Sienna's spacious design made it ideal for families, despite the non-removable middle row.

The 2024 Lexus GX offered a minimalist interior with essential physical controls. It provided ample space for adults in the first two rows, but the third row was best suited for children. The GX boasted impressive cargo capacity, with 1,138 litres available with the third row folded. Overtrail models offered even more space, making the GX a strong contender for those needing cargo versatility.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna featured an older infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, requiring wired connections. Despite its dated interface, the system was reliable, with a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12-speaker JBL audio system available on higher trims.

The 2024 Lexus GX showcased a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included multiple USB-C ports and a 120-volt outlet. The Lexus Interface was user-friendly, though some features required subscriptions after a trial period. The GX offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo in higher packages, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna impressed with standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. It earned a 5-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, ensuring peace of mind for families.

The 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety offerings with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring pre-collision detection and adaptive cruise control. While not yet crash-tested, the GX's modern architecture and comprehensive ADAS suggested enhanced safety compared to previous models.