2024 Chevrolet Trax vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax underwent a significant transformation, shedding its previous image for a more modern and stylish design. It was longer, lower, and wider than its predecessor, borrowing design cues from the midsize Chevy Blazer. The new Trax featured a prominent grille, sleek headlights, and a distinctive rear profile, giving it a bold presence. Base models came with 17-inch steel wheels, while higher trims offered 18-inch and 19-inch aluminum options. The interior, though entry-level, had a fresh design with a freestanding touchscreen and unique air vents, offering a mix of practicality and style.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a geometric design, moving away from the softer lines of its predecessor. The spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's front fascia was more vertical, with a flat hood featuring raised sides for better off-road visibility. The side profile was sleek, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for enhanced visibility. The GX was available in a single trim with five packages, each offering unique features, from luxury touches to off-road enhancements. The interior combined luxury with practicality, featuring a large touchscreen and robust materials.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax featured a new 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Despite the decrease in power from the previous model, the Trax accelerated to 100 km/h faster than before. The engine's flat torque curve provided strong performance, with minimal turbo lag. The Trax was front-wheel drive only, with a six-speed automatic transmission. Its handling was more car-like, offering a stable and nimble driving experience, although it still exhibited some body roll and limited grip.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, replaced its V8 engine with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The new engine provided impressive low-end torque, ideal for off-road driving. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time four-wheel drive with a locking centre differential. The Overtrail packages added advanced suspension technology for enhanced off-road capability. The GX performed well on-road, with controlled handling and effective braking.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax offered increased rear-seat legroom, though headroom decreased slightly. It provided competitive passenger space compared to rivals like the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue. The Trax had a car-like driving position with excellent visibility. Cargo space increased by 12%, offering 725 litres with the rear seats up and 1,532 litres with them folded.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a minimalist interior with fewer physical buttons, retaining essential controls. It offered ample space for adults in the first two rows, with 1,047 mm of front legroom and 933 mm in the second row. The third row was tight, suitable only for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 292 litres behind the third row and 2,178 litres total. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 1,291 litres available.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax saw significant infotainment upgrades, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and an 11-inch screen on higher trims. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with wireless phone charging. The digital instrument cluster was a standout feature, providing a modern interface. USB ports were plentiful, though the charging pad's design was not ideal for all phones.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included multiple USB-C ports and a 120-volt outlet in the trunk. The Drive Connect service provided voice assistance, though it required a subscription. Higher trims featured a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the system was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features were a consideration.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax came with a range of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, promoting safe driving habits for young drivers. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time.

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. The proactive driving assist feature enhanced safety during highway driving. While crash-test ratings were pending, the new architecture and advanced safety features inspired confidence.