2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Genesis GV80 showcased a sophisticated exterior with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately presence at over 16 feet long. The Prestige trim featured 22-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its elegant appearance. The rear echoed the quad-lamp design with four-part taillamps above dual exhausts. Despite its boxy hands-free liftgate, the matte Brunswick Green paint added a touch of elegance. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats complemented the metal and matte wood trim. The center console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel stood out. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed awkwardly placed, but the spacious and luxurious interior made it a pleasant space.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, offered a distinct luxury SUV experience. Its upscale appearance, especially with the Luxury trim's 22-inch silver wheels, provided a significant visual upgrade. The styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred subtlety. The TX came in various models, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350, excluding the TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with FWD or AWD options. Our test model, priced at $67,869, included a range of packages and a Peppercorn interior, which felt too dark despite the panoramic sunroof. However, the interior was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered AWD with a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 delivering 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Our test model had the latter, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly quick, taking about five and a half seconds to reach 60 mph, the GV80 excelled in highway driving. Its smooth power delivery and electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, ensured a quiet and comfortable ride.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could reach 60 mph in eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque. The TX 350 FWD had an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, but our test averaged 20.4 mpg. AWD, costing an additional $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The TX 350's suspension provided a balanced ride, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt too soft.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with luxury features. Standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were complemented by ventilated seats and the Ergo Motion driver’s seat. The optional third row offered limited legroom, suitable for children. The GV80 boasted a tri-zone climate control system and a 21-speaker stereo. Cargo space was generous, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with seats folded. Towing capacity reached 6,000 pounds.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. Our TX 350 Luxury model included premium leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with captain’s chairs optional. The third-row seat was adult-friendly, unlike previous models. Sliding the second-row seat forward improved third-row comfort but reduced second-row legroom. The TX offered 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. The infotainment system had a learning curve, with a cumbersome dial and inconsistent menu structure. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available but not wireless. The GV80 included remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to park itself without the driver inside.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with an optional Technology Package, including a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and semi-autonomous parking assist. The head-up display was problematic with polarized sunglasses. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TX included a three-year Drive Connect subscription, providing cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. Additional features included Wi-Fi and Remote Connect, with an optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. A standout feature was the blind-spot video feed in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist offered hands-on driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and high marks from IIHS, though headlights and LATCH received Acceptable ratings.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered braking and steering assistance. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and traffic jam assist. LSS+ 3.0 was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when cut off by other drivers.