2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic rugged appearance, characterized by a burly, body-on-frame design that was consistent across all models. Notable changes included a redesigned grille, which was shorter and wider, enhancing airflow to the engine bay. The integration of the antenna into the windshield was a clever update, preventing it from snagging on branches during off-road adventures. Additionally, the Wrangler offered a variety of roof options, including traditional soft-top, full hard top, and power-retractable sunroof configurations, allowing for a customizable open-air experience.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, presented a more subdued aesthetic. Despite its exclusive Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers, the RX's design was largely unremarkable, with a large front grille and a dramatic rear haunch swell. The RX lineup offered three models, each with distinct powertrains and efficiency ratings. The RX 350h was the base model, while the RX 500h and RX 450h+ provided more power and hybrid capabilities. The RX's interior was contemporary, featuring quality materials and ambient lighting, though some ergonomic controls were less intuitive.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower, a 3.6-litre V6 with 285 horsepower, and a powerful 6.4-litre V8 producing 470 horsepower. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by various transfer cases, such as the Command-Trac and Rock-Trac systems, catering to different levels of off-road enthusiasts. The 4xe PHEV model stood out with its 35 kilometres of all-electric range and impressive torque, making it a favourite among testers. However, the Wrangler's ride quality on pavement was less refined, with a bumpy ride and vague steering.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three distinct models, each with unique performance characteristics. The RX 350h was the most efficient, with 246 horsepower and a hybrid powertrain. The RX 450h+ PHEV provided 304 horsepower and a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds, while the RX 500h delivered 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension and Direct4 AWD system, enhancing its performance capabilities. However, the RX 500h's fuel efficiency was lower than expected, and its drivetrain occasionally hesitated during city driving.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler saw an upgrade in towing capacity, with certain models now able to tow up to 2,268 kilograms. Inside, the Wrangler offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power adjustable front seats that remained functional even when submerged. The 4xe model included a 30-amp Power Box, allowing for the use of various accessories powered by the vehicle's battery.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and cargo space, with the RX 500h featuring heated and ventilated front seats, though the bottom cushions were less comfortable for long drives. The rear seats offered ample space and comfort, with a panoramic sunroof enhancing the cabin's openness. The RX Hybrid provided 838 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,308 litres with the rear seats folded, though the cargo cover could be cumbersome when loading larger items.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Uconnect5, offering a user-friendly interface and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's speed was notably improved, particularly when accessing Off-Road Pages. Additional features included a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store multiple user profiles.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid boasted advanced technology, with the RX 500h F Sport Black Line featuring digital key functionality, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a hands-free power liftgate. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a cloud-based navigation system. However, the steering wheel controls were criticized for being distracting and difficult to use while driving.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags, with forward collision warning standard on most models. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and park assist. The Wrangler had not yet been rated for 2024, but previous models received mixed ratings from safety organizations.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Safety Connect, offering features like automatic collision notification and SOS emergency assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 included a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The RX Hybrid received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS rated it poorly in certain crash tests.