2024 GMC Acadia vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented itself as a luxury SUV with a distinct upscale appearance. Unlike the Grand Highlander, which resembled a larger RAV4, the TX boasted stylish 22-inch wheels that enhanced its presence, especially in the TX 350 Executive packages. Its design was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, offering a toned-down aesthetic that might appeal to those previously put off by Lexus's bold styling. The TX came in various model series, including the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, although the TX 550h+ was not yet available. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, with options for Ultra Luxury or Executive packages. The interior, while dark, felt luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge, with premium materials and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the experience.

The 2024 GMC Acadia, built on a modified version of its previous platform, grew significantly in size, emphasizing its larger stature with a more upright front end and broad grille. The design included brand-identifying LED headlights and big wheel arches, adding to its robust look. The Acadia's detailing was subtle, visible only in certain lighting, while the rear featured quad exhaust tips inspired by the C8 Corvette. Available in Elevation, AT4, and Denali trims, the Acadia offered various wheel options, with the Denali featuring intricate grille detailing and the AT4 sporting rugged elements like red tow hooks. The interior was redesigned for spaciousness, with larger screens and a lower dashboard for a commanding view. The third row benefited from a repositioned roof pillar, and a panoramic sunroof added light to the cabin. The AT4's interior, reminiscent of outdoor gear, felt more appropriate than the Denali's, which lacked the luxe feel expected of its billing.

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. Despite initial skepticism about its suitability for a midsize luxury SUV, the engine performed adequately for typical driving scenarios, accelerating to 100 km/h in about eight seconds. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, though testing showed an average of 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2024 GMC Acadia featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, shared with the Chevy Traverse, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. This engine replaced the previous 2.0-litre turbo and 3.6-litre V6 options, offering more power. The Acadia's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms with an available towing package. An eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive were included, with the AT4 model featuring a twin-clutch system for off-road driving. The AT4 also had a 2.5-centimetre ride height lift and special suspension tuning. Despite being marketed as the most capable Acadia AT4, its off-road capabilities were limited, though it handled dirt roads well. The Denali and AT4 models had different suspension tunings, with the Denali offering a comfortable ride despite its large wheels, though both models felt larger than they were due to their handling characteristics.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs, offering a more practical and comfortable third-row seat. The TX 350 test unit featured premium materials and standard heated and ventilated seats, though it lacked a massage function. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat cushion, but the third row was habitable for adults, with adequate leg support and large windows. Cargo space was generous, with 572 litres behind the third row and up to 2,746 litres with the second and third rows folded. However, the second-row legroom was limited, affecting comfort when accommodating third-row passengers. The TX offered numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 GMC Acadia's low dashboard and ample glass created a spacious feel, with more headroom across all rows than competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Kia Telluride. It also offered more first-row legroom, though the Kia and Toyota provided more space in the second and third rows. The Acadia's cargo space improved significantly, with 651 litres behind the third row and up to 2,761 litres with all seats folded. An underfloor storage bin and a presence-based power liftgate added to its utility. Small-item storage was reasonable, though the headlight controls were less intuitive, requiring touchscreen interaction.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional options like a head-up display and surround-view camera in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the head-up display's unmarked controls were frustrating. The system included a digital assistant with natural voice recognition, and the optional Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2024 GMC Acadia came with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15-inch touchscreen, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 12-speaker Bose audio system was standard, with a 16-speaker option available. The infotainment system featured Google built-in apps, providing familiar navigation and voice control. The setup was logical, with high-quality graphics and easy-to-use controls. The instrument cluster offered multiple configurations, though drive-mode icons were small.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance, though it was not always transparent. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with options for parking sensors and traffic jam assist. The system was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2024 GMC Acadia received an Acceptable rating from the IIHS for its moderate overlap front test and collision prevention system, with a Marginal score for headlights. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Acadia also offered Super Cruise as an option, allowing for hands-free driving on certain roads, though it required driver attention at intersections.