2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX made a bold statement with its massive spindle grille, 8.1 inches of ground clearance, and an overall height of 74.2 inches. Its front end appeared ready to conquer the road, with large headlights framing its distinctive face. The GX Black Line Special Edition, limited to 3,000 units, returned with new paint options, including Eminent White Pearl. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design seemed more suited for off-road adventures, with a short 109.8-inch wheelbase and minimal overhangs. The interior, however, disappointed with its abundance of plastic materials, though it did offer luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance models, offered a more refined appearance. While the RX 350h looked nearly identical to the standard RX 350, the RX 500h stood out with its performance-tuned design, featuring a blacked-out grille and aggressive styling. The RX's design, though not stunning, was functional, with a wheelbase stretch that reduced rear overhang. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalistic approach, with improved infotainment and contemporary textures. The RX 350h Luxury model boasted Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance featured artificial suede and dark gray aluminum trim.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't excel on paper compared to modern engines, the GX's V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's 6,500-pound towing capacity was respectable, but it lagged behind other SUVs. Despite its weight, the GX offered predictable handling, aided by a Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and a 4WD system.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, on the other hand, offered a more efficient and versatile performance. The RX 350h featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, with an estimated 36 mpg in combined driving. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid system, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, achieving 27 mpg combined. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension and Dynamic Rear Steering system provided a dynamic driving experience, while the RX 350h offered a quieter and more fuel-efficient ride.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered practical interior features, with ample cubby space and a deep center console bin. The decision to use hard buttons instead of haptic-touch interfaces was a welcome choice for ease of use. The second row provided comfort with captain's chairs, but the third row was cramped and best suited for emergencies. Cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 64.7 cubic feet with both rows folded.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid excelled in comfort and space. The RX 350h Luxury trim featured ten-way power-adjustable front seats with premium leather, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered eight-way power seats with larger bolsters. The RX's battery placement under the rear seat improved leg support, though rear headroom was tight. Cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the back seat folded, surpassing the previous model.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, though improved with a 10.3-inch touchscreen, felt dated compared to other Lexus models. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, but the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The GX's strength lay in its off-road capabilities, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, offering a modern experience with connected services plans. The Lexus Interface provided cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant, though it required a subscription. The system had some drawbacks, such as limited screen menu views and reflections, but it was a significant upgrade. The RX also offered a head-up display and dual-function touch-sensing control pads, though these features had usability issues.

The 2023 Lexus GX, despite its age, came equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some top-end features like lane-tracing assist and road-sign recognition.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. It included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. The RX also offered Proactive Driving Assist, which maintained safe following distances and recharged the battery through regenerative braking. While some features had minor irritations, the RX's safety technology was robust and effective.