2024 Lexus TX vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, or 40 ASE, was based on the SR5 Premium trim and added $4,505 to its price. This included a $1,875 charge for the standard four-wheel-drive system. The remaining cost covered retro body stripes, a heritage grille, bronze wheels, and other unique design elements. Available in black, white, or red with a black artificial leather interior, the 40 ASE had a nostalgic appeal with its 1970s-inspired design. The interior, though filled with plastic, felt solid and functional, with easy-to-use controls.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, offered a more upscale and conservative design. The Luxury trim featured 22-inch wheels that enhanced its appearance. The TX's styling was toned down compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a subtler look. The TX lineup included the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices starting at $55,050. The TX 350 Luxury model, tested with FWD, included premium features like ambient lighting and semi-aniline leather upholstery, though the interior felt dark despite the panoramic sunroof.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It had a five-speed automatic transmission and offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The 4Runner's fuel economy was rated at 17 mpg combined, with our test averaging 16.9 mpg. It featured two 4WD systems, with the Limited trim offering a full-time option. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with features like Hill-Start Assist Control and Multi-Terrain Select. Despite its ruggedness, the 4Runner's on-road performance was less refined, with slow steering and a heavy feel.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 came with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in about eight seconds. The TX 350 FWD had an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, though our test averaged 20.4 mpg. The AWD option improved traction but slightly reduced fuel economy. The TX's ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension. The interior remained quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt soft in our pre-production test vehicle.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a unique power-down rear window, enhancing ventilation. The interior offered comfortable seating, with SofTex artificial leather in the 40 ASE. Storage was ample but lacked rubber liners, causing items to rattle. The second row was spacious, but the optional third row was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner provided 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous Lexus SUV shortcomings with a more spacious and comfortable interior. The TX 350 Luxury included premium leather and heated seats. The second row offered climate control and USB ports, while the third row was surprisingly accommodating for adults. Cargo space was 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage options were plentiful but lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM, with optional navigation and JBL sound system. The voice recognition worked well, though it struggled with some commands.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface system. The optional Technology Package added a digital instrument panel and head-up display, though the latter was problematic with polarized sunglasses. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a digital assistant and various connected services. The 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system offered excellent audio quality.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. However, it received a four-star NHTSA rating, with lower scores for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was included but was not always smooth. Additional options included parking sensors and traffic jam assist. The system generally performed well, though it slowed too much when vehicles cut in.