2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with its upscale appearance. The Luxury trim model featured striking 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. Its styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down design. The TX came in various models, including the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, offered a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with FWD or AWD options. The interior, though dark, felt luxurious with premium materials, meeting expectations for a Lexus badge.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed for a rugged look, with aggressive styling and off-road-themed versions. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $38,295 plus destination, featured Army Green color and off-road enhancements like all-terrain tires and a skid plate. The RAV4's interior focused on practicality, with utility-driven design elements and easy-clean surfaces. While not luxurious, it offered comfort and functionality, especially in higher trims. The RAV4's pricing ranged from $28,675 for the LE to $38,295 for the TRD Off-Road, with hybrids offering better fuel efficiency.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds with FWD and 7.8 seconds with AWD. The engine's performance was adequate, though the engine note and torque steer with FWD were drawbacks. The TX 350 FWD had an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, but during testing, it averaged 20.4 mpg. The AWD option, costing $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The ride was comfortable, with commendable body motion control and quiet highway driving, though the brake pedal felt soft.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The TRD Off-Road model came with AWD, off-road suspension, and all-terrain tires. It offered driving modes like Normal, Snow, Mud & Sand, and Rock & Dirt. Despite its off-road enhancements, it had the same ground clearance as other RAV4 models. The RAV4's engine was powerful for its class but sounded loud and unrefined. It had an EPA rating of 28 mpg combined, averaging 26.6 mpg during testing. The off-road suspension provided a smooth ride, and the steering and brakes were well-tuned for its purpose.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with captain’s chairs as an option. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, unlike previous models. The TX provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 focused on practicality, with storage shelves, trays, and rubberized controls. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and optional heated and ventilated seats. The RAV4 comfortably seated four adults, with adequate rear legroom and amenities like air vents and USB ports. It offered 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with seats folded, competitive for its segment.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured an optional Technology Package with a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and surround-view camera. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls and head-up display visibility issues were drawbacks. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital assistant. The TX included free subscriptions to various connected services and an optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 had the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services. Service Connect and Safety Connect were free for ten years, while Remote Connect and Drive Connect were complimentary for one year. The infotainment system was sophisticated but had usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen. The RAV4 offered a JBL premium audio system and an optional digital rear-view mirror.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered braking and steering assistance but was not transparent in operation. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and traffic jam assist. The system was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. The system performed adequately but was better suited for straighter highways. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests, highlighting the need for an updated design.