Lexus RX vs Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2024 Lexus RX, following its recent redesign, presented a polarizing exterior with its oversized trapezoidal grille and large air inlets, which seemed awkwardly integrated into the bodywork. The hood's prominent bump added to the bulky appearance, contrasting with the sleeker designs of previous RX models. The side profile featured bulging body panels and a swooping chrome accent strip, suggesting a floating-roof design that felt somewhat out of place. However, the rear end offered a more cohesive look with a tidy design and a single light strip connecting the taillights. Inside, the RX's interior was more conventional, with faux suede inserts in higher trims lending a softer feel. The large 14-inch infotainment touchscreen was well-placed, though the simulated woodgrain on the centre console felt less convincing. Despite these minor drawbacks, the cabin was well-appointed with premium leather and sturdy construction.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, available exclusively in Sport design trims in Canada, maintained the same footprint as its predecessor but featured buffer bumpers that extended its length. The GR Sport trim, inspired by Toyota's Gazoo Racing division, showcased a more aggressive look with red brake calipers, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and a wide mesh grille. The RAV4's boxy design, consistent with Toyota's SUV lineup, included square wheel arches and bulging fenders. The interior offered mild differentiation across trims, with red stitching and GR Sport badging adding a sporty touch. The standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.5-inch touchscreen were well-integrated, with an option for a larger 12.9-inch display. The centre console featured a mechanical gear shifter on lower grades, while higher trims offered a shift-by-wire setup. The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's interior was optimized for storage, with clever features like deep door pockets and a removable cupholder separator.

The 2024 Lexus RX offered four distinct models, starting with the base RX 350, powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard across all models in Canada. The RX 350h hybrid version featured a 2.5-litre engine with 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, utilizing a CVT. The RX 500h F Sport Performance combined a turbo 2.4-litre engine with a hybrid powertrain, delivering 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid increased power to 304 hp with an 18.1-kWh battery, offering an estimated 60 km electric range. While the RX 350 and RX 350h felt underpowered, the RX 450h+ was more responsive, reaching 96 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The RX prioritized comfort with its soft suspension, though it exhibited noticeable body roll in corners.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre engine with 186 hp, paired with a larger 22.7-kWh battery, increasing power to 324 hp. The all-wheel-drive system included a 203 hp front motor and a smaller rear motor. In EV mode, the RAV4 excelled in quiet cruising, while Auto mode delivered a 0-100 km/h time in the low five seconds. The hybrid and charge modes optimized battery use and recharging. The RAV4's power transition was seamless, with paddle shifters allowing manual control. Despite its 2,040-kg weight, the RAV4 maintained a spirited ride, with the GR Sport trim offering enhanced handling due to its lower stance and suspension tweaks.

The 2024 Lexus RX provided ample front seat space with standard heating and ventilation, though a massage function was absent. The interior featured a wireless charging pad, USB ports, and versatile cupholders. Rear seats offered good legroom and visibility, with standard rear climate controls and USB ports. The RX's cargo space was 838 litres, expandable to 1,308 litres with folded seats, though the load floor was higher than competitors.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's base SE trim included power-adjustable heated front seats and five USB ports. SofTex upholstery was standard on higher trims, with ventilated seats available. The interior retained its dimensions but optimized storage with multiple shelves and a wireless charger. The RAV4 seated four comfortably, with 960 mm of rear legroom. Cargo space was 951 litres, expandable to 1,798 litres with folded seats, featuring a flat floor and a temporary spare tire.

The 2024 Lexus RX's redesigned infotainment system featured a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen, with logical menus and quick responses. Natural speech commands were supported, though not as advanced as Mercedes-Benz's system. The steering wheel had multi-function pads, with a head-up display showing button functions. A cloud-based navigation system was standard, though connectivity issues were noted. The 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was a recommended upgrade.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with an optional 12.9-inch display. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles and a quick menu, with improved graphics and user interface. The Arene operating system enhanced responsiveness, with a subscription-based Voice Assistant for various commands. The system also provided charging information and a range map.

The 2024 Lexus RX earned five stars in NHTSA crash tests and was a Top Safety Pick by IIHS, despite a "Poor" rating in the moderate frontal overlap test. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Some features were overly sensitive, but adjustable.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, with enhanced camera and radar detection. Standard systems included automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and more. A surround-view camera system was available on higher trims. Safety ratings were pending, but improvements were expected.