2024 Lexus TX vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant shift in design from its predecessors. It adopted a more assertive and truck-like appearance, stretching 2.5 inches longer and half an inch wider than the previous model. This change was visually evident in its muscular stance, enhanced by a longer wheelbase and wider tracks. The classic D-pillar taillights evolved into a modern, aggressive look with three L shapes each. The rear end appeared blockier, complementing the bold front fascia, and all lights were upgraded to LED. The Sport Touring trim, driven in Canyon River Blue, featured special Sport styling with black accents and 19-inch wheels. Inside, the design echoed the 2022 Civic and 2023 HR-V, with a premium feel, high-quality materials, and attractive contrast stitching.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It featured upscale styling with 22-inch silver wheels that enhanced its presence. The design was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down look. The TX came in three model series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350. The TX 350, tested with FWD and Luxury trim, included a Convenience Package, Technology Package, and a 21-speaker audio system, totaling $67,869. The interior boasted premium leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and a Peppercorn color scheme, though it felt dark even with a panoramic sunroof. Despite this, the TX 350's interior was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a simplified powertrain choice between turbocharged and hybrid options. The hybrid setup combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a two-motor hybrid-electric system, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, capable of reaching 115 mph and towing up to 1,000 lbs. The hybrid powertrain provided a responsive driving experience, with a new Snow drive mode joining Sport, Normal, and Econ. The updated AWD system could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels, and a hill-descent control system was introduced. A "B" shifter position enhanced regenerative braking, offering a one-pedal driving experience. The FWD CR-V Hybrid achieved 43 mpg city, 36 highway, and 40 combined.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds with FWD and 7.8 seconds with AWD. The TX 350's performance was adequate, with a combined fuel economy rating of 23 mpg. During testing, it averaged 20.4 mpg. AWD, costing an additional $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The TX 350's suspension provided a balance between road feel and comfort, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt soft but manageable.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid's larger exterior translated to increased interior space. Cargo capacity grew by 3 cubic feet, offering 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 76.5 with them folded. This was comparable to the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and exceeded the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The Sport Touring model featured a hands-free power tailgate, and wide-opening rear doors improved access. Rear seat legroom increased to 41 inches, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The interior included eight cupholders and a console with best-in-class storage.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model featured premium leather and suede upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with optional captain’s chairs. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, offering leg support and large windows. Cargo space measured 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.4 cubic feet with seats folded, and 97 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Storage slots and bins were plentiful, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid catered to those who preferred physical controls, with a 7-inch touchscreen featuring volume and tuning knobs. The Sport Touring trim had a 9-inch touchscreen with a volume knob and hard Seek buttons. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, heated mirrors, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The Sport Touring trim added wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Honda’s smart navigation system optimized fuel efficiency based on the route.

The 2024 Lexus TX, equipped with the optional Technology Package, featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, head-up display, and a surround-view camera. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls were distracting, especially with polarized sunglasses. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, included a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were seamless, and the TX offered 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid included the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies as standard. This included improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New features for 2023 included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. A blind-spot information system and cross-traffic monitor were standard, with parking sensors on top trims. The CR-V earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA, with new airbags and a stiffer structure enhancing safety.

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, though it was not always transparent. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. Optional features included parking sensors with automatic braking and traffic jam assist. The LSS+ 3.0 system was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.