2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, convincingly established itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, notably enhanced by the 22-inch silver-finished wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages. The styling of the TX was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, which might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design. The TX 350, likely the volume-selling version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, with options for Ultra Luxury or Executive packages. The interior, while dark, offered a luxurious feel with premium materials, though it lacked some expected features like a massage function for the front seats.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to project a tough exterior with its aggressive styling and utility-focused design. The TRD Off-Road trim, tested in the U.S., showcased features like dual exhaust outlets and robust roof racks, though the performance didn't match the rugged appearance. The RAV4's interior emphasized practicality with easy-clean surfaces and ample storage options. While the cabin wasn't fancy, it offered comfort and utility, with features like heated front seats and a digital rearview mirror. The RAV4 provided a spacious cargo area, making it suitable for recreational activities.

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 TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 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, offering a comfortable ride with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It required high revs to access maximum power, and the engine sounded loud and unrefined. The RAV4's fuel economy was rated at 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 10.6 L/100 km. The RAV4's eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD system provided decent performance, though the engine's noise detracted from the experience. The SUV's Multi-Terrain Select offered various driving modes, enhancing its off-road capability.

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 materials and standard heated and ventilated seats. The second-row seat, while not as welcoming, offered triple-zone climate control and USB charging ports. 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 2,746 litres with the second-row seats folded. However, the second-row legroom was limited, affecting comfort when accommodating third-row passengers.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 focused on practicality and utility, with a cabin designed for recreational activities. The interior featured storage shelves, trays, and rubberized control knobs. The test vehicle's seats had SofTex upholstery, with heated front seats standard in Canada. The RAV4 offered good outward visibility and comfortable seating for four adults, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The cargo area provided 1,059 litres of space, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded, making it competitive in its segment.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription offering cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. However, the head-up display's unmarked steering wheel controls were distracting, and the display was often invisible with polarized sunglasses. The TX offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system available in the Executive package.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4's infotainment system included an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered four connected services plans, with Service Connect and Safety Connect free for ten years. Drive Connect required a subscription, adding cloud-based navigation and a digital voice assistant. The system lacked a multi-panel Home screen, and the font was hard to read on the display's white background. The RAV4 offered a JBL premium audio system, though the test vehicle had standard speakers.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist provided braking and steering assistance, though it wasn't always transparent. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors. The traffic jam assist system worked well at low speeds, but the TX slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in, causing frustration for following drivers.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist. The system performed adequately, though the lane-centring assist was better on straighter highways. The adaptive cruise control managed distances smoothly, but braking was often excessive when other vehicles cut in. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to Marginal and Acceptable ratings in recent crash tests, highlighting the need for an updated design.