2024 Honda Prologue vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its upscale appearance was evident, especially with the 22-inch silver-finished wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly enhanced its presence. The styling of the TX was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative design that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's bolder aesthetics. The TX was available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, although the TX 550h+ was not yet on sale.

In contrast, the 2024 Honda Prologue presented a more conventional look for an electric vehicle. Available in four colours for the base EX and mid EX-L trims, the Touring trim added Sonic Grey and Pacific Blue options. Its design was understated, with a smooth black panel at the front and traditional Honda "H" logo, complemented by optional accessories for personalization. The Prologue's proportions, with its low roof and large wheels, gave it a unique stance, while the interior, particularly in the Touring trim, offered a familiar yet upscale feel with a brown and black colour scheme. The layout was reminiscent of other Honda models, with practical features like piano black plastic and upholstery material spanning the dash.

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 approximately eight seconds, although 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. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2024 Honda Prologue, with its standard all-wheel drive in Canada, featured a dual-motor setup delivering 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The Touring trim offered a range of 439 kilometres, while the EX and EX-L trims provided 452 kilometres. The Prologue's driving dynamics were familiar, with a middle regenerative braking setting allowing for coasting. It also offered a one-pedal drive setting for a more traditional EV experience. The Prologue's long wheelbase contributed to a comfortable ride, although road and wind noise were noticeable at highway speeds. Sport mode enhanced throttle, brake, and steering response, making it enjoyable to drive on winding roads.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings of Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat lower cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults, providing leg support and a good view. The TX offered 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, and storage compartments lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 Honda Prologue featured traditional door handles and a spacious cabin with up to 3,163 litres of passenger volume. It offered impressive legroom, with 1,000 millimetres in the second row and 1,052 mm in the first. Headroom was less generous, but reclinable rear seats and a panoramic moonroof added comfort. Heated front seats and dual-zone climate control were standard, with additional features like a heated steering wheel and front seat ventilation on higher trims. The cargo area provided 671 to 714 litres of space, with a flat load floor and a deep compartment beneath it for additional storage.

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 a surround-view camera in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. The TX offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system was available in the Executive package.

The 2024 Honda Prologue came with keyless access, a wireless charger, and four USB-C ports. It featured an 11.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an 11-inch digital driver-information display. Google Built-In was standard, providing native Google Maps and route-planning features. The EX-L and Touring trims included a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system with Active Sound Control, enhancing the driving experience with artificial sounds.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was also part of the system, providing braking and steering assistance. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system offered hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.

The 2024 Honda Prologue featured the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, with new additions like rear cross-traffic braking and blind-zone steering assist. Higher trims offered front-park assist, a surround-vision system, and rear pedestrian alert. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Prologue was targeting high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.