2025 Hyundai Kona vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 marked a significant departure from its predecessor, the GX 470, with a bold new design that embraced geometric styling. The midsize SUV featured a less pronounced spindle grille, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights, giving it a more aggressive front end. The squared-off upper edge of the front fascia and the flat hood with raised humps above the front wheels enhanced its off-road capabilities. The GX's profile was characterized by minimal character lines and a low window beltline, improving visibility. The SUV was available in six trim levels, with the Premium+ expected to be the best-seller. Luxury trims focused on opulence, while the Overtrail models were geared towards off-roading, featuring eco-friendly Nuluxe leatherette upholstery and advanced off-road hardware. Inside, the GX combined luxury with utilitarian materials, boasting a 14-inch touchscreen display and physical controls for off-road features.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Kona retained its fresh appearance from the previous year, with a futuristic design featuring a flush grille and ultra-slim LED light bars. The Kona's larger size, thanks to a six-inch increase in length, provided more interior space and a more assertive road presence. The N Line S and N Line trims offered sportier design elements, while other trims like SE, SEL, SEL Convenience, and Limited added visual enhancements. The interior remained unchanged, with a solid construction and ample tech features. Notably, the 2025 model introduced 64-color ambient interior lighting as standard on higher trims. The Kona's practicality extended to its cargo space, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2024 Lexus GX underwent a significant transformation in its powertrain, replacing the V8 engine with a more advanced twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6. This new engine delivered 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for both on-road and off-road adventures. The GX's GA-F truck platform, shared with other Toyota and Lexus models, contributed to its stability and off-road prowess. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and the standard full-time four-wheel drive system, along with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential, ensured excellent traction. The Overtrail trims featured additional off-road enhancements, including a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for improved wheel articulation. During testing, the GX demonstrated impressive acceleration and braking performance, with minimal body roll on winding roads.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two gas-powered engine options. The SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience trims featured a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for fuel efficiency. For those seeking more power, the N Line S, N Line, and Limited trims came with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine generating 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine provided a broader torque band, enhancing performance. All-wheel drive was available across the lineup, offering improved traction and a more sophisticated suspension setup. While the Kona prioritized competence over excitement, it delivered adequate performance for its class.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior showcased a minimalist and sophisticated design, with fewer physical buttons compared to its predecessor. Rotary knobs for climate control and essential off-road features were retained. The GX offered comfortable seating for six-foot-tall adults in the first and second rows, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row. However, the third row was best suited for children due to its limited legroom. The GX excelled in cargo space, offering 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a total of 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models provided even more cargo capacity, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet in total.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its cargo capacity, offering 25.5 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 63.7 cubic feet when folded. The dual-level cargo floor added versatility. Rear legroom measured 38.2 inches, providing ample space for passengers. The front seats offered a generous range of movement, and the steering wheel was adjustable for reach and height. The Kona's interior featured various storage compartments, enhancing practicality. Upholstery options varied by trim, with cloth on lower trims and Alcantara or H-Tex leatherette on higher trims. Heating and ventilation features were available on select trims, with dual-zone automatic climate control on most models.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface offered an intelligent voice assistant and subscription services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with an optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo on higher trims. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, some features required subscription plans after an initial trial period.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona boasted a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims included wireless smartphone charging and a digital key. The SEL Convenience trim and above featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, enhancing customization options. Audiophiles could opt for the N Line or Limited trim for an eight-speaker Bose premium audio system. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity allowed for over-the-air software updates, ensuring features remained up to date.

The 2024 Lexus GX received a significant upgrade in safety features with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and more. While crash test ratings were not yet available, the GX's modern architecture and advanced driver assistance systems inspired confidence in its safety.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its comprehensive safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and more. Higher trims added advanced features like Highway Driving Assist and enhanced Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. The Kona's safety credentials were further bolstered by its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.