2024 Kia Sorento 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 enhanced by the 22-inch silver-finished wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly improved 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 Kia Sorento received its first major visual update since its 2021 debut, aligning more closely with its siblings like the Telluride and EV9. The Sorento featured a robust new front end with vertically stacked LED headlights and wing-like amber LED daytime running lights, giving it a larger and more intimidating appearance. The rear updates were subtle, with new bumpers and LED taillights on higher trims. The Sorento's interior was modernized with a new dashboard and combined gauge cluster and infotainment displays under a single pane of glass, offering a cleaner look. The cabin materials were upgraded, with faux open-pore wood grain and quality stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and seats, enhancing its upscale feel.

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 roughly 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 Kia Sorento retained most of its mechanical components, with the base engine being a 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine struggled with the Sorento's weight, but the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine available on EX and higher trims offered a more robust 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged models had zero-to-100 times in the mid-seven-second range and provided lively performance. All Sorentos in Canada came with AWD, and the X-Line and X-Pro trims offered increased ground clearance. The Sorento handled confidently, with well-weighted steering and effective brakes. The X-Pro trim, with its all-terrain tires, excelled in off-road conditions and offered a towing capacity of 2,040 kilograms.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs by offering a more spacious and comfortable interior. The TX 350 test unit featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. The second-row seat, while not as welcoming due to its flat lower cushion, offered triple-zone climate control and USB charging ports for all rows. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, providing leg support and a good view. Cargo space was generous, with 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded, and 2,746 litres with the second row down.

The 2024 Kia Sorento's cabin was modern and comfortable in the first two rows, though the third row remained tight. With 1,052 millimetres of front legroom and 1,060 mm in the second row, the Sorento offered more space than many two-row SUVs. The third row had 752 mm of legroom, which was better than some larger competitors. The Sorento's new dash was ergonomic, with logical controls and ample small-item storage. Cargo space was limited to 357 litres with the third row in use, but expanded to 1,090 to 1,274 litres with it folded, and up to 2,139 litres with all seats down.

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 its 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also included free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a three-year Remote Connect subscription. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2024 Kia Sorento adopted a single-pane, twin-screen setup for its gauge and infotainment displays, with a 12.3-inch screen standard across all models. The new Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (CCnC) software prioritized popular features and offered a simple, stylish interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the system supported over-the-air updates. The Sorento included USB-C outlets in all rows and an auxiliary jack. Higher trims featured a Bose 12-speaker audio system and Digital Key 2.0, allowing phone-based vehicle access.

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 offered additional braking and steering assistance, though it was not always transparent in operation. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors and traffic jam assist. The LSS+ 3.0 system generally performed well, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2024 Kia Sorento offered an extensive suite of standard and optional safety features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Advanced options included navigation-based adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist 2 with automated lane changes. The Sorento's adaptive cruise control systems were designed to learn from driver behaviour, though sensor blockage in foul weather was a concern. The Sorento had not yet been fully evaluated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but previous models received favourable ratings.