GMC Yukon vs Lexus GX

The 2022 GMC Yukon was a chrome lover's dream, with even the base SLE model featuring enough shiny elements to give it a premium appearance. As one moved up the trim levels to the Denali, the chrome became even more pronounced, with the front of the Denali almost entirely constructed of it. The oversized chrome grille, reminiscent of an industrial cheese grater, gave the Denali a unique and commanding presence. The Yukon also offered a tastefully crafted, spacious cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with the available second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim boasted four exclusive interior designs, with the Teak/Light Shale color combo standing out for its premium look.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX had a distinctive visual presence with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, offering exclusive paint colors like Nori Green Pearl. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's interior was marred by a disappointing amount of plastic material, though it still featured luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery. The GX's design leaned sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky designs, making it easier to maneuver in technical driving situations. However, the GX's interior felt dated, with a lack of USB-C ports and a third row that was too tight for regular use.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered a choice of three engines, including a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower. A 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine, known as the "Baby Duramax," was also available, producing 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and four-wheel drive optional. The Yukon's maximum towing capacity was 8,400 pounds with the right configuration. The independent rear suspension provided better handling and a smoother ride, though some bouncing was noted over rutted pavement. The optional air ride adaptive suspension improved ride quality and off-road capability.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. While it didn't win many battles on paper, the V8 offered a satisfying sound and linear power delivery. The GX's towing capacity was 6,500 pounds, and its fuel economy was a downside, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city and 19 highway. The GX's weight contributed to its rolling through corners, though it remained predictable and controllable. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and standard four-wheel drive system made the GX user-friendly in various driving conditions.

The 2022 GMC Yukon provided ample space for passengers and cargo, with a redesign increasing third-row legroom by over 10 inches. Cargo space behind the third row also increased to 25.5 cubic feet. The second-row seats folded flat, and power-folding options made access to the third row easier. The power-sliding center console revealed additional storage space, and power-retractable assist steps aided entry and exit. The pushbutton transmission controls required some acclimation but became second nature with use.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained plenty of cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. The decision to stick with hard buttons was a blessing for those put off by touchscreens. The second row was comfortable, but the third row was too tight for regular use. The side-hinged trunk door required muscle to open, and cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row. Folding the third row increased space to 46.7 cubic feet, and with both rows folded, the GX offered 64.7 cubic feet.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came standard with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center and a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In. The Denali trim featured a 15-inch head-up display and a Bose 14-speaker audio system, though the sound quality was not as rich as expected. The rear-seat media system included dual 12.6-inch touchscreens compatible with various media formats.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, revamped for 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, with integrations like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was rendered unnecessary by the touchscreen. The GX included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo and a CD player. Off-road capability was a highlight, with a real 4WD system and features like downhill assist and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

The 2022 GMC Yukon featured GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side crash protection.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date.