2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling transformation, shedding some of its previous quirky charm for a more sophisticated and modern appearance. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to a sleeker look, with cleaner lines and fewer interruptions. The windshield wipers were discreetly tucked under the hood's lip, and the black molding strips on the roof were removed. The HR-V was available in new colors like Nordic Forest Pearl, enhancing its contemporary appeal. Inside, the HR-V's interior was refined, with a focus on comfort and quality. The EX-L trim featured perforated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power moonroof, creating a cabin that felt upscale for its price range. The metal honeycomb grille and touch-sensitive lights added a premium touch, while the improved visibility and thoughtful design elements made it a practical choice.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold geometric design, departing from its predecessor's softer lines. The spindle grille was less pronounced, and the front fascia featured standard triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's design was more aggressive, with a flat hood and minimal character lines along its profile. The interior was minimalist yet sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons and a focus on essential controls. The GX offered ample passenger space in the first and second rows, though the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, especially in Overtrail models, which prioritized off-road capability. The GX's interior blended luxury with utilitarian materials, and the 14-inch touchscreen display was a central feature, complemented by physical controls for off-road functions.

The 2023 Honda HR-V was powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) featured a Step-Shift function to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. Drivers could choose from Normal, Snow, ECON, and Sport modes, each adjusting the vehicle's performance to suit different driving conditions. The HR-V offered front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, with improved suspension and widened tracks for a more enjoyable driving experience. Despite its enhancements, the HR-V remained underpowered compared to competitors like the Kia Seltos and Ford Bronco Sport, which offered multiple powertrain options.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, replaced its V8 engine with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The GX's powertrain provided impressive torque at low revs, making it well-suited for off-road adventures. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for improved stability both on and off-road. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and the standard full-time four-wheel drive system included a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced off-road performance. The GX's acceleration and braking were commendable, and its composed on-road behavior was a pleasant surprise given its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a center console featuring a shelf for storage. Despite its compact size, the HR-V provided comfortable seating and a practical cargo area. The rear seats offered a higher seating position for easier entry and egress, and when folded, they created a nearly flat floor. The HR-V's passenger volume varied slightly between trims, with the EX-L offering a bit more space. Cargo capacity was competitive for its class, though slightly reduced from the previous model.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was a departure from its predecessor, with a minimalist and sophisticated design. The GX provided ample legroom in the first and second rows, though the third row was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with impressive capacity behind the second row and even more in Overtrail models. The interior blended luxury with utilitarian materials, and the dashboard featured a large touchscreen display with physical controls for off-road functions.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a tablet-style touchscreen for its infotainment system, with physical knobs for power and volume. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims, with wireless versions available on the EX-L. The EX-L also offered a 9-inch infotainment display, a wireless charging pad, and an eight-speaker audio system. The HR-V's technology package included a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and various connectivity options.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen integrated into the dash, with USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad for front-seat passengers. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a voice assistant for navigation and climate control. The GX's audio system varied by trim, with a 10-speaker system standard and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. Subscription services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect were offered with initial free trials.

The 2023 Honda HR-V came equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as standard, including adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. New features for 2023 included traffic-sign recognition and traffic jam assist. The HR-V had not yet been crash-tested for 2023, but the previous model received favorable ratings from safety organizations.

The 2024 Lexus GX received a significant upgrade in safety features with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 as standard. This included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. The GX's proactive driving assist feature added an extra layer of safety. While the 2024 GX had not yet been crash-tested, its modern architecture and comprehensive ADAS instilled confidence in its safety offerings.