2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport was described as modernist and reductive, emphasizing a clean and simple design. It offered limited flashy options, such as a Firenze Red paint and diamond-turned 23-inch wheels. The test vehicle featured a subdued Eiger Gray paint with silver wheels and a Black Exterior Pack, exuding understated luxury. Inside, it showcased a Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and shiny black trim, highlighting its luxurious yet subtle appeal. The Range Rover Sport was available in SE P360, SE Dynamic P400, and Autobiography P440e specifications, with a starting MSRP of $98,420. Notable design elements included premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and surface LED technology taillights, contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented a more upscale appearance. The Luxury trim test model featured 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. The TX's styling was conservative, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down Lexus design. Available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, prices ranged from $55,050 to $69,350. The TX 350 Luxury model, priced at $67,869, included a Convenience Package, Technology Package, and a 21-speaker surround-sound system. The interior, with a Peppercorn theme, felt dark despite the panoramic sunroof, but overall, it maintained a luxurious feel suitable for a Lexus badge.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport aimed to balance refinement and driver engagement. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque in the SE Dynamic model. The PHEV drivetrain in the Autobiography P440e offered 434 hp and 406 lb-ft, with a 51-mile electric range. A 523-hp twin-turbo V8 was available in early models but was later discontinued. The Range Rover Sport's 395-hp engine accelerated to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, with a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds. It achieved 22.3 mpg on average, with a torsional stiffness increase of 35% and adaptive damping air suspension for improved ride comfort and handling. Despite its off-road prowess, it struggled against sport-tuned competitors on twisty roads.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds, with a combined fuel economy of 23 mpg. The TX 350 AWD offered slightly quicker acceleration and better traction. The suspension provided a balance between road feel and comfort, with accurate steering and a quiet interior. However, the brake pedal felt soft in the pre-production test vehicle. Overall, the TX 350's performance was adequate for typical driving situations, with a focus on comfort and practicality.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport maintained its Command Driving Position, offering a tall and airy feel. The air suspension could kneel for easier access, and the front seats were comfortable with 20-way power adjustments. The rear seat, though improved, remained tight for taller passengers, with narrow door openings. Cargo space was 31.9 cubic feet, expandable to 53 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Storage solutions included a deep bin under the center armrest and a handy contraption to prevent items from rolling in the cargo area.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model featured premium leather and suede upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with optional captain’s chairs. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, offering better leg support and visibility. Cargo space was 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. The TX provided numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with a 13.7-inch digital display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. However, the Pivi Pro system was often confusing and frustrating to use. The Meridian audio system and Active Noise Cancellation were highlights, but the digital assistant struggled with basic commands.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a Technology Package with a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and surround-view camera. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Drive Connect subscription added a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. The Mark Levinson PurePlay surround-sound system provided impressive audio quality.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included advanced driving assistance systems like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control and steering assist were less responsive and smooth than expected, especially on freeway curves.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered braking and steering assistance, though it was not always transparent. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds, but the TX lacked a high-speed hands-free system.