2025 Chevrolet Tahoe vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe continued its legacy as a popular full-size SUV, largely due to its brand equity and practical capabilities. Since its inception in 1995, the Tahoe has been a top choice for those needing a vehicle that can tow substantial loads while accommodating up to nine passengers. Chevrolet maintained a conservative approach in refreshing the Tahoe’s design, introducing a new grille and updated lighting elements across its six trim levels. The Z71 trim, which we primarily tested, stood out with its off-road capabilities, featuring full-length skid plates, front recovery hooks, and a 2.5-centimetre lift. Inside, the Tahoe boasted a new 17.7-inch touchscreen, improved dashboard aesthetics, and a more sophisticated air vent design, while retaining physical controls for key functions.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of packages tailored to different powertrains, with the TX 350 featuring the Luxury package and the 500h hybrid starting with the F Sport Performance 2 package. The TX retained a large grille and sharp bi-LED headlights, with rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. Inside, the TX provided three interior colour options and ambient lighting, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles were a notable change, though they seemed unnecessary. The TX's interior was spacious, with a third row that comfortably accommodated adults, and a one-touch button for easy third-row access. However, folding the second row flat proved cumbersome.

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe stood out with its naturally aspirated V8 engines, offering a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and a 6.2-litre V8 delivering 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine was also available, producing 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque, making it the most fuel-efficient option with highway consumption as low as 9.7 litres per 100 kilometres. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with 4WD standard on most trims. The Tahoe's steering was surprisingly light, though the brake pedal felt heavy. Suspension options included Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride adaptive suspension for enhanced ride quality.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 featured a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid boosted output to 366 hp. The gas model came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid used a six-speed automatic. The TX 350 had full-time AWD, while the 500h employed Lexus’s Direct4 AWD system. Drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode offering increased throttle sensitivity. The 500h also featured adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling.

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe excelled in towing capacity, with the 5.3-litre V8 and RWD configuration capable of towing up to 3,810 kilograms. Cargo volume was impressive, with 3,474 litres available with all seats folded. However, with all seats in place, cargo space was limited to 722 litres. The Tahoe offered a 24-inch wheel option, though it required Magnetic Ride Control for a smoother ride. Despite the large wheels, the Tahoe's interior was spacious, accommodating passengers comfortably.

The 2026 Lexus TX provided three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a heated steering wheel as standard. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. A one-touch button facilitated third-row access, though folding the second row flat was complicated. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with 572 litres available with all seats in place, expanding to 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. Towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms.

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe featured a significant tech upgrade with a 17.7-inch touchscreen, 11-inch driver information screen, and optional 15-inch HUD. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Google Built-in for seamless integration of Google services. The user experience had a learning curve, particularly with the steering wheel controls. The premium Bose sound system was underwhelming compared to rivals.

The 2026 Lexus TX had a 14-inch touchscreen that was responsive but lacked some features, such as manual satellite radio input. Steering wheel controls were multifunctional but confusing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. Subscription services were required for in-dash navigation and other features. The TX offered a clear back-up camera, Advanced Park system, and multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe had not been crash-tested for 2025, but the 2024 model received four out of five stars from NHTSA and an Acceptable rating from IIHS. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera. GM’s Super Cruise was available but not included in early 2025 models.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, featuring forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Adaptive cruise control worked well once set up. NHTSA rated the TX five out of five stars, while IIHS gave it an Acceptable rating for the small overlap front crash test and Good for the passenger side.