2024 Lexus TX vs 2024 Land Rover Defender

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, contrasting with the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model featured striking 22-inch wheels in a silver finish, 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 design that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's bolder aesthetics. The TX was available in three model series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, including destination charges and dealer fees. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, offering various luxury packages to enhance its appeal.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender combined a classic, boxy profile with modern features like angular headlights, linking it visually to other Land Rover models. However, its interior leaned more towards durability and adventure-readiness, akin to a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, but with more soft-touch materials. The Defender was available in three body styles: the two-door 90, the four-door 110, and the extended-wheelbase four-door 130, each offering various trims. The Defender 110 S, the most popular configuration, came with standard features like 19-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable front seats, and a panoramic glass roof. The interior was a blend of luxury and practicality, with options for premium Windsor leather upholstery and additional features like tri-zone climate control and a centre console refrigerator. The Defender's rugged design and versatile interior made it suitable for both urban and off-road adventures.

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, three-row luxury SUV, the engine performed adequately for typical driving scenarios with up to four passengers. Lexus claimed the TX 350 could accelerate to 100 km/h in approximately 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, a slight improvement over the previous RX L model. During testing, the TX 350 averaged 13.8 L/100 km, with the ride and handling striking a balance between firmness and comfort. The steering was accurate, and the interior remained quiet on highways. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender offered several powertrains, starting with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the P300, producing 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The P400 test model featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six, delivering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Two supercharged 5.0-litre V8 options, the P500 and P525, offered 493 hp and 518 hp, respectively. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time active four-wheel drive. The Defender's towing capacity varied, with the six-cylinder and eight-cylinder models capable of towing up to 3,500 kilograms. The most powerful V8 accelerated the SUV from zero to 96 km/h in 5.1 seconds. The Defender excelled in off-road capabilities, with features like adaptive air suspension and Terrain Response 2 system. The P400 test model provided ample power for highway speeds, though there was a slight lurch during acceleration and deceleration.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 test unit featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with standard heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel in Canada. The second-row bench seat was standard, but captain's chairs were available with the Executive 6-Passenger package. While the front seats lacked a massage function, they were comfortable and supportive. The second-row seat, though not as welcoming, offered triple-zone climate control and USB charging ports for all rows. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, a significant improvement over previous 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. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender balanced luxury and functionality, with soft-touch materials and practical features like grip handles and rubberized floors. Seating capacity varied, with the Defender 110 offering an optional third row best suited for children, while the Defender 130 accommodated up to eight passengers. Cargo capacity depended on the model, with the Defender 130 providing 433 litres behind the third row and 2,155 litres with all seats folded. The Defender 110 offered 962 litres behind the second row in the two-row version and 303 litres in the three-row configuration. The two-door Defender 90 provided 441 litres behind the second row. The cargo area featured hard plastic surfaces, making it practical and easy to clean. The multifunctional climate control dials required an additional button press, but the overall interior design was a blend of refinement and utility.

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 included a 14-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, with features like automatic collision notification and emergency calling. Remote Connect provided app-based access to remote engine starting and digital key access. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.4-inch touchscreen, offering navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, satellite radio, HD radio, and a 10-speaker Meridian stereo system. The touchscreen was simple and utilitarian, with home buttons for easy navigation. The interior design balanced refinement and utility, appealing to those who preferred a straightforward setup without overwhelming technology.

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-departure warning, and more. Proactive Drive Assist provided additional braking and steering assistance, though it was not always transparent. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. Optional safety features included front and rear parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The LSS+ 3.0 system was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in front.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender offered a comprehensive list of standard driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. The lane-departure and lane-keeping assist systems were overly sensitive, but they could be deactivated. As of this writing, the Defender had not been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, which was not uncommon for expensive vehicles.