2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Toyota Sequoia

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 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, although the TX 550h+ was not yet on sale.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Sequoia, particularly in the U.S.-only 1794 Edition trim, was equivalent to the Canadian Sequoia Platinum trim but featured dark grey painted 20-inch wheels and less exterior chrome. The Sequoia lineup in Canada included the SR5 TRD Off-road, Limited, Platinum, and Capstone trims, with prices from $87,174 to $106,175. The Sequoia's Lunar Rock paint drew attention, despite the model being on the market for a few years. However, the interior was a mix of Saddle Tan leather and typical Toyota-grade plastic, which detracted from its luxury appeal.

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, although 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, 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 2025 Toyota Sequoia featured an i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, combining a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. Despite its weight of 2,790 kilograms, the Sequoia offered quick acceleration and a robust engine note. However, its fuel economy fell short, averaging 14.5 L/100 km compared to the expected 11.7 L/100 km. The Sequoia's towing capacity was impressive, with a maximum of 4,137 kilograms, but its solid rear axle and battery placement compromised driving dynamics and interior space. The ride was jittery, and the steering, while light and fluid, lacked feel.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a spacious third row that could accommodate adults. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,746 litres with all seats folded. However, second-row legroom was limited, and the storage compartments lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2025 Toyota Sequoia could seat up to eight people, but the third row was best suited for shorter passengers due to limited headroom. The Platinum and Capstone trims offered comfortable heated and ventilated captain's chairs, but the high floor and low roof made third-row access awkward. Cargo space was limited, with only 325 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,460 litres with all seats folded. The Sequoia's cargo capacity was less than its rivals and even some midsize SUVs.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Lexus Interface 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 frustrating, especially for those wearing polarized sunglasses. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2025 Toyota Sequoia came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected services available through subscriptions. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system included a surround-view camera and a digital rearview mirror, but the lack of a tuning knob was inconvenient. The Intelligent Assistant's voice recognition was reasonably capable but had limitations.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was part of the system, but it was not always smooth in operation. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors with automatic braking.

The 2025 Toyota Sequoia came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, offering adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and more. However, the lane assist features were often intrusive, causing false warnings. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.