2024 Lexus GX vs 2025 Honda Pilot

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 presented a striking departure from its predecessor, the GX 460. The redesign embraced a geometric style, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of the past. The signature spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV a robust and aggressive appearance. The hood featured raised sections above the front wheels, aiding driver awareness during off-road adventures. The side profile appeared as if carved from metal, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline enhancing visibility. The GX was available in a single trim with five packages, each catering to luxury or off-road preferences. The interior combined luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions.

In contrast, the 2025 Honda Pilot offered a more traditional SUV aesthetic. The Black Edition featured black wheels and trim, with a cabin adorned in black leather with red accents. The Pilot aimed for a rugged look, especially in the TrailSport trim, but the Black Edition was more suited for suburban environments. The interior was thoughtfully designed, though the digital displays appeared dated. Despite this, the Pilot provided practical storage solutions and quality materials. The driving experience was straightforward, with the V6 engine offering decent acceleration, though the transmission occasionally lagged. The Pilot's handling was predictable, and the suspension provided a comfortable ride over various terrains.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain offered impressive torque at low revs, enhancing off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX boasted a stiffer chassis, improving stability on and off-road. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and standard full-time 4WD with a locking centre differential ensured robust off-road performance. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and advanced suspension technology, increasing wheel articulation and maintaining ground contact. The GX demonstrated controlled handling on-road, with effective braking and minimal body roll.

The 2025 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, generating 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It offered multiple driving modes and could tow up to 2,268 kilograms. The AWD system included torque vectoring and hill descent control, with ground clearance varying by trim. The Pilot's V6 provided good acceleration, though the transmission occasionally hesitated. Fuel economy was less impressive, particularly in city driving. The suspension delivered a soft ride, with predictable handling aided by the Black Edition's 20-inch wheels. While not tested off-road, the TrailSport trim had previously shown capable performance on rough terrain.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. It offered comfortable seating for adults in the first two rows, with 1,047 mm of legroom in the front 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, 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 available.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in practicality, with three rows of comfortable seating and thoughtful storage solutions. The front row featured a 10-way power seat for the driver but limited adjustment for the passenger. The second row was roomy, with a removable centre section for easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for adults for short trips. The Pilot offered 635 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,702 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 3,219 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface included a voice assistant and subscription services for remote functions. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available in higher packages. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2025 Honda Pilot's technology appeared dated, with a 10.2-inch digital gauge panel and a 9-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The wireless CarPlay function had occasional issues, and the voice recognition system was inconsistent. The Pilot included practical features like CabinTalk for communication with rear passengers and a small head-up display.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. While not yet crash-tested, the modern architecture and comprehensive ADAS improved confidence in its safety.

The 2025 Honda Pilot came with Honda Sensing safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, the adaptive cruise control occasionally struggled in traffic, and the lane-centring assist affected steering feel. Despite these issues, the Pilot earned high safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA.