2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Land Rover Defender outsold the Discovery significantly, largely due to its appealing boxy design reminiscent of the old LR4. Customers favored its classic truck look, defined by square-jawed features and steep angles, over the Discovery's more Ford-like appearance. The Defender's design paid homage to the original 1980s model with tasteful accents like dome and faux-metal step plates. Available in three body styles—90, 110, and 130—the Defender offered unmatched versatility and a rugged aesthetic that resonated with buyers.

Inside, the Defender prioritized function and durability over luxury. Despite its high price, the interior was basic, with rubber and plastic surfaces designed for resilience. While the build quality was excellent, the interior lacked the opulence of a Range Rover. The Defender's hardcore character remained intact, appealing to those who valued its unique charm and robust build.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented itself as a luxury SUV with a more upscale appearance. The TX's styling was conservative, appealing to those who found previous Lexus designs too bold. Available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, the TX offered a range of options. Our test model, the TX 350 Luxury, featured 22-inch wheels and a dark Peppercorn interior, which felt a bit too dark despite the panoramic sunroof.

The TX 350 Luxury's interior was comfortable and luxurious, with premium leather and suede upholstery. While the front seats lacked a massage function, they were supportive, and the second-row offered climate control and USB ports. The third-row seat was notably more spacious than previous Lexus models, accommodating adults comfortably. The TX provided ample cargo space, with 97 cubic feet available when the second and third rows were folded.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. Its permanent 4WD and Terrain Response 2 system adapted to various surfaces, though most owners wouldn't fully utilize these features. On-road, the Defender's performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll, wind noise, and imprecise steering. However, its turbocharged inline-six and supercharged V8 engines delivered strong performance, with the V8 producing 518 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy varied, with the V8 returning 14/19/16 mpg.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in about eight seconds, offering adequate performance for typical driving. The TX 350 FWD averaged 20.4 mpg during testing, slightly below its EPA rating of 23 mpg combined. The AWD option improved traction and acceleration but slightly reduced fuel economy. The TX's ride and handling were well-balanced, with a quiet interior and responsive steering.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered unmatched seating configurations, with the ability to seat up to eight passengers. The Defender 90 featured a unique jump seat, while the 110 and 130 models provided additional seating options. Cargo space varied by model, with the 130 offering up to 77 cubic feet. The Defender's versatility extended to its off-road capabilities, with options for roof racks, winches, and more.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury featured premium materials and comfortable seating, with options for captain's chairs. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, and the TX offered 97 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender featured Pivi Pro infotainment with a choice of 10-inch or 11.4-inch touchscreens. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated seats, and power-folding mirrors. Higher trims added features like air suspension, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with a 14-inch touchscreen and the Lexus Interface infotainment system. The optional Technology Package added a digital instrument panel, head-up display, and more. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls were frustrating. The TX offered wireless smartphone integration and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender received a five-star Euro NCAP rating but lacked some airbags. Standard safety features included lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included a 360-degree camera and head-up display.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Proactive Drive Assist and traffic jam assist were available, though the latter only worked at low speeds. The safety systems generally performed well, though the TX slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.