2025 Lexus RX Hybrid 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 TX's styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, offering a toned-down 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. 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 in Canada.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, was a $90,000 SUV that, despite its exclusive Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers, remained unremarkable in appearance. The RX had never been a standout in terms of looks, and the current-generation model was no exception, heavily reliant on the chosen version and colour/wheel combination. The RX Hybrid lineup included the RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+ models, each offering different power outputs and fuel efficiencies. The RX 500h, with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned features, provided a more dynamic driving experience but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The RX Hybrid's interior was contemporary, with quality materials and ambient lighting, though the ergonomics of the controls varied from baffling to brilliant.

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. Lexus claimed it could accelerate 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, slightly better than the previous RX L model. During testing, it 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 the highway, although the brake pedal felt too soft.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models with varying performance. The RX 350h, the least powerful, delivered 246 hp and 233 pound-feet of torque, with a focus on fuel efficiency. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid provided 304 hp and a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds, while the RX 500h, with its turbocharged engine, produced 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension and Direct4 AWD system, offering a rewarding driving experience but with higher fuel consumption. The RX 500h's drivetrain was powerful and quick, though it occasionally hesitated in city driving. The adaptive damping suspension provided a firm ride, and while capable on twisty roads, it lacked communication between the road and driver.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings of Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable and spacious interior, with premium materials and standard heated and ventilated seats. The TX's third-row seat was habitable for adults, unlike the old RX L, and provided ample cargo space. The TX featured numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise. Cargo space measured 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, making it one of the most spacious in its class.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and practical cargo space. The RX 500h's front seats were snug due to enhanced bolstering, and the climate system's fan was loud on hot days. The rear seats were comfortable, with ample room for adults. The RX offered practical interior storage, though some compartments lacked lining. The RX Hybrid provided 838 litres of cargo space, with hooks for grocery bags and a small amount of storage under the load floor. Folding the second row increased cargo volume to 1,308 litres, which was modest for a midsize SUV.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a head-up display in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with 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 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was available in the Executive package.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid was equipped with digital key functionality, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a hands-free power liftgate. The RX 500h featured a 14-inch touchscreen display with the Lexus Interface infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a three-year Drive Connect plan with a digital voice assistant. The RX also included SiriusXM satellite radio and streaming options for Apple Music and Amazon Music. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality, though the steering wheel controls were distracting to use.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was also part of the system, providing braking and steering assistance. The TX featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors and traffic jam assist. The system worked well, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid also featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with similar advanced driver assistance systems. Proactive Driving Assist was included, and the RX came with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RX Hybrid's surround-view camera was a valuable addition, and the Traffic Jam Assist feature provided hands-free driving at low speeds. The RX received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS rated it poorly in a frontal-impact test.