2024 Lexus TX vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, was designed to stand out as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, distinct from the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model featured striking 22-inch silver-finished wheels, part of the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly enhanced its visual appeal. The TX's styling was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative look that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design language. The TX 350, likely the most popular variant, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, with options for Ultra Luxury or Executive packages in Canada. The interior, while luxurious, felt somewhat dark due to the Peppercorn interior and black-grained trim, despite the panoramic glass sunroof.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, a long-standing name in the automotive world, continued to blend into traffic despite its massive size. Measuring 5,733 millimetres in length and 1,923 millimetres in height, it was not for everyone, especially those navigating urban areas. However, for those needing ample cargo and passenger space, the Suburban was a solid choice. Available in six trims, from LS to High Country, it offered a range of features, with higher trims boasting 22-inch alloy wheels. Despite its size, the Suburban's interior felt somewhat pedestrian, even in the top-spec High Country trim. The cabin was spacious, with leather upholstery standard on most trims, and the High Country offered a Mocha leather interior. The seats were supportive but not ideal for long trips, and the 10-way power adjustments on most trims were adequate but not exceptional.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The official fuel economy rating was 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt too soft in the pre-production test vehicle.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel six-cylinder with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The 5.3-litre V8 was the most common, providing a towing capacity of up to 3,765 kilograms with the Max Trailering Package. The 6.2-litre V8 offered better acceleration, while the diesel engine delivered superior fuel economy. The 10-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, and the Suburban's steering and brakes were up to the task, though its size meant some body roll was inevitable.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It 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, a significant improvement over past models. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded and 2,746 litres with the second row down. However, the second-row legroom was limited, affecting comfort when accommodating third-row passengers.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 1,175 litres behind the third row, 2,656 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 4,097 litres. This made it a top choice for those needing substantial carrying capacity. The Suburban's 106-litre fuel tank, combined with the diesel engine's efficiency, allowed for over 1,000 kilometres of highway driving between fill-ups. The Suburban's interior was spacious, with ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for long road trips and towing needs.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional tech options in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a cloud-based navigation system through a Drive Connect subscription. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban came with a 10.2-inch touchscreen on all but the base LS trim, which had an 8-inch screen. The infotainment system included Google Built-in, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. A rear-seat entertainment system was available as an option, adding twin touchscreens to the front seat backs. The 10-speaker Bose audio system was adequate but lacked the richness of higher-end systems.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Additional safety features were available in the Executive packages, though the Proactive Drive Assist feature was not always smooth in operation.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with several ADAS features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional features like Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving system.