2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, a full-size luxury SUV, maintained its classic design without significant updates since its last refresh in 2022. It featured a triple-black Navigator Reserve model with a Monochromatic Package, adding black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. The interior, predominantly black with real wood trim and chrome accents, offered a luxurious feel, though some chrome plastic elements fell short of conveying true luxury. The cabin was spacious and comfortable, with ambient lighting enhancing its upscale appearance.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented a more conservative and upscale design. The Luxury trim test model 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 subtler look. Inside, the TX 350 Luxury model featured a Peppercorn interior with premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede trim. Despite its dark appearance, the cabin felt luxurious, though the panoramic glass sunroof struggled to brighten the space.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, it offered five driving modes, including Excite, which improved handling but reduced fuel efficiency. The Navigator averaged 15.6 mpg during testing, below its EPA rating of 18 mpg. Despite its size, the Navigator felt smaller on winding roads, though its nearly three-ton weight challenged the brakes.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in about eight seconds, with a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 23 mpg. During testing, it averaged 20.4 mpg. The TX 350's ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension. The steering was accurate, and the interior remained quiet on highways. However, the brake pedal felt soft, though it was easy to modulate.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering roomy seating across all three rows and a cavernous cargo area. Power-deploying running boards and 30-way adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage ensured comfort. The second-row captain’s chairs provided easy access to the third row, accommodating taller adults. The Navigator L model offered even more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model included premium leather and artificial suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was comfortable, though lacking a massage function. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, with ample leg support and large windows. Cargo space was generous, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Sync 4 system was user-friendly, and the digital assistant excelled in voice recognition. The Navigator also offered a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System and Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment, though the latter was underutilized by passengers.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with an optional Technology Package, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a digital assistant providing natural voice recognition. The TX also featured a 21-speaker Mark Levinson PurePlay surround-sound system, enhancing the audio experience. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls and head-up display visibility issues were drawbacks.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like Evasive Steering Assist and Intersection Assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system, was available but struggled with certain driving conditions. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Lexus TX included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist and traffic jam assist were also available. The system generally performed well, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in. The TX lacked a high-speed hands-free driving assist system.