Lexus TX vs Subaru Forester Hybrid

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid presented a fresh design for its sixth-generation, adopting a more conventional and cohesive look compared to its predecessor. This redesign resulted in a blockier shape, reminiscent of a compact Ford Explorer, which some might argue diminished its distinctiveness. Despite this, the Forester maintained a rugged appearance with black plastic elements hinting at its off-road capabilities. Inside, the Forester Hybrid featured a modernized cabin with a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a digital instrument panel exclusive to the hybrid model. While hard plastics were prevalent, soft-touch materials were strategically placed for comfort, and the front seats offered ample support and ventilation, enhancing long drives.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of packages, each catering to different preferences and needs. The TX 350 came standard with the Luxury package, while the TX 500h hybrid model boasted a more powerful engine and additional features like adaptive suspension and rear steering. The exterior retained a large grille and sharp bi-LED headlights, with LED lighting spanning the rear. Inside, the TX provided three interior colour options and ambient lighting, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. The redesigned door handles were a unique touch, but some might have preferred more attention to detail elsewhere in the cabin.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre flat four-cylinder engine paired with a parallel hybrid system, producing a combined 194 horsepower. This setup included two motor/generators and a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a slight power advantage over the standard Forester. The all-wheel-drive system, combined with a traditional driveshaft, provided better traction and consistent off-road performance. While acceleration was adequate, the hybrid transmission sometimes made the vehicle feel slower, especially at higher speeds. The ride quality was firm, with the larger 19-inch wheels contributing to some passenger jostling. Off-road, the Forester Hybrid excelled with its X-Mode drive programming and hill descent control, making it a versatile choice for both urban and adventurous drivers.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 featured a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, while the TX 500h hybrid model increased output to 366 horsepower. The gas model used an eight-speed automatic transmission, whereas the hybrid employed a six-speed automatic. Both models offered all-wheel drive, with the TX 500h utilizing Lexus's Direct4 AWD system for optimal torque distribution. Drivers could choose between Normal, Eco, and Sport modes, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. The TX 500h's adaptive suspension and rear steering improved handling, though the vehicle was not designed for sporty driving.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid impressed with its unobstructed forward view, thanks to thinner front roof pillars. The cabin felt open and airy, with ample space for front and rear passengers. The panoramic sunroof added to the sense of openness, while standard features like a wireless charging pad and USB ports enhanced convenience. The Forester Hybrid offered 779 litres of cargo space, with a hands-free power liftgate and power remote seatback releases for easy loading.

The 2026 Lexus TX provided a spacious interior with three-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was notably roomy, accommodating full-sized adults comfortably. Access to the third row was facilitated by a one-touch button, though folding the second row flat required some effort. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support, while the cargo space was generous, offering up to 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. The TX could tow up to 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid came equipped with an 11.6-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen featuring built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Starlink infotainment system was praised for its user-friendly interface and large on-screen buttons. The X-Mode off-road drive menu and external camera views were particularly useful for off-roading. The Forester Hybrid also included an 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with quick response times, though some features lacked polish. The steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labelled, requiring drivers to rely on digital displays for guidance. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX offered a range of subscription-based features, including in-dash navigation and a voice assistant. The back-up camera and Advanced Park system provided additional convenience, while seven USB ports and wireless charging ensured devices stayed powered.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid earned high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA in most categories and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Standard safety features included Subaru's EyeSight suite, with advanced systems like frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Forester Hybrid's safety systems functioned reliably, with the option to disable audible alarms for lane-keep assist.

The 2026 Lexus TX came standard with Safety System+ 3.0, offering features like forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and traffic sign recognition. While Proactive Driving Assist was intended to enhance safety, it often activated unexpectedly. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though it was occasionally slow to respond in traffic. The TX received five stars from the NHTSA and mixed ratings from the IIHS, with "Acceptable" and "Good" scores in various crash tests.