Toyota 4Runner vs Lexus TX

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner, in its sixth generation, maintained a familiar design language, evolving rather than revolutionizing its look. The return of the horseshoe-shaped grille, now bulkier and more industrial, defined much of its exterior. Deep beveled creases on the side body panels blended seamlessly with the flared wheel arches, giving the 4Runner a broad-shouldered stance suitable for an off-road SUV. Paying homage to its predecessors, the 4Runner retained the slanted rearmost window, and while the rear hatch didn't fold down, the sliding rear window facilitated easier cargo access. Inside, the 4Runner mirrored the Tacoma pickup truck, with a beveled styling motif that was both attractive and functional. The cabin, though filled with hard plastics for durability, offered light cushioning for comfort. The materials were superior to those in a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco but fell short of the luxury found in a Land Rover Defender.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of packages tailored to different powertrains, with the TX 350 featuring the Luxury package and options for Ultra Luxury, Executive, and F Sport 3 packages. The TX 500h hybrid started with the F Sport Performance 2 package. The exterior retained a large grille reminiscent of the spindle shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. Inside, three colour options were available, with ambient lighting adding warmth. However, the material quality didn't meet luxury standards, with basic plastics present. Redesigned door handles, which reacted to pressure rather than pulling out, were a unique feature, though some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail over this innovation.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine choices. The base model featured a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup promised better acceleration and fuel economy compared to the previous generation's five-speed unit. In Canada, part-time 4WD was standard, with full-time 4WD available in the Limited and Platinum packages. The Hybrid i-Force Max powertrain, based on the same four-cylinder engine, combined with a 1.87-kWh battery pack and an electric motor, delivered 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid variant offered stronger power at lower speeds, beneficial for off-roading. The 4Runner's handling improved significantly, with reduced nosedive and body roll, making it more composed on pavement. Off-road capabilities remained impressive, with eight distinct packages offering varying levels of off-road prowess. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models stood out as the most capable, with approach angles ranging from 18 to 33 degrees and ground clearance between 20.5 and 25.6 centimetres.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 came with a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid boosted output to 366 hp. The gas model featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid used a six-speed automatic. The TX 350 had electronically controlled full-time AWD, while the TX 500h employed Lexus's Direct4 AWD system. Drivers could choose between Normal, Eco, or Sport drive modes, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The TX 500h offered adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner grew nearly 13 centimetres longer, with a 6-centimetre increase between the axles. Despite this, passenger space gains were minimal. The front seats accommodated taller passengers well, but the middle row offered only adequate legroom. A third row was available on non-hybrid models, though it was cramped and lacked thigh support. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and tactile off-road controls. Storage options included door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a centre armrest bin. Cargo capacity was 1,371 litres behind the second row, reduced to 1,206 litres in the Hybrid due to the raised floor. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits, supporting up to 360 kilograms.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. 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 cumbersome. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row flat, and 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. All TX models could tow up to 2,268 kilograms.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner boasted an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 14-inch option available. Both screens were user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A digital instrument panel was standard on Hybrid models. Off-road models featured external camera views and automatic activation for trail navigation. A 14-speaker JBL audio system was available, along with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Remote monitoring and a digital key function were accessible via a smartphone app.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen, though some functions lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled adaptive cruise control and volume, but their multi-functionality was confusing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though occasionally problematic. A subscription was required for in-dash navigation and other features. The back-up camera offered a bird’s-eye view, and the Advanced Park system handled parking duties. The TX included seven USB ports and wireless charging, with an available 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were unavailable, but the Tacoma, on which it was based, was an IIHS Top Safety Pick. The 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with features like frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist was also included but could be disabled if intrusive. In Canada, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert was standard.

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, though it was initially confusing. The NHTSA rated the TX 350 and TX 500h five stars for crash safety, while the IIHS gave it an "Acceptable" score for the small overlap front crash test on the driver’s side and a "Good" score for the passenger’s side.