2024 Lexus TX vs 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling transformation, shedding some of its 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, and the black molding strips on the roof were removed. The EX-L model we tested featured perforated leather seats and dual-zone climate control, offering a comfortable and upscale cabin experience.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented a more upscale and conservative design. The Luxury trim we tested boasted 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. The TX's styling was toned down compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a more understated look. Inside, the TX 350 Luxury model featured premium semi-aniline leather upholstery and a Peppercorn interior, though the cabin felt somewhat dark despite the panoramic sunroof.

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. This was an improvement over the previous model, but the HR-V remained underpowered compared to some competitors. The updated CVT with Step-Shift function aimed to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. Drivers could choose from Normal, Snow, ECON, and Sport modes, with AWD available as an option. The HR-V's new suspension and widened tracks made it enjoyable to drive, though it was still noisier at higher speeds.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of eight seconds for the FWD model. The TX 350's performance was adequate, with a combined fuel economy rating of 23 mpg for the FWD version. The AWD option, costing $1,600, offered slightly quicker acceleration and improved traction. The TX 350's suspension provided a comfortable ride, and the interior remained quiet on the highway.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a center console featuring a shelf for storage. Rear-seat headroom was slightly reduced, but cargo space remained competitive at 24.4 cubic feet with seats up and 55.1 cubic feet with them folded. The HR-V's passenger volume varied slightly across trims, with the EX-L offering 97.3 cubic feet. Front legroom improved to 41.9 inches, while rear legroom decreased to 37.7 inches.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model included premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, a significant improvement over past models. 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 seats down. The TX offered numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a tablet-style infotainment display, with the EX-L trim offering a 9-inch screen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All trims included a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and a 7-inch color touchscreen. The EX-L also provided a wireless charging pad and an eight-speaker audio system. The HR-V's infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for essential functions.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with an optional Technology Package, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, head-up display, and surround-view camera. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls were frustrating, especially with polarized sunglasses. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The TX offered a complimentary three-year Drive Connect subscription, enhancing navigation and voice recognition. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2023 Honda HR-V included the Honda Sensing suite as standard, offering 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 been crash-tested for 2023, but the 2022 model received favorable ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with improvements expected for the new model.

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 was part of the system, though it was not entirely transparent. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The traffic jam assist system allowed for hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways, though no higher-speed system was available.