Lexus GX vs. Toyota 4Runner

When it comes to popular SUVs that combine rugged capabilities with appealing features, the Lexus GX and Toyota 4Runner have long been attractive choices. These two legendary off-roaders have a reputation for conquering trails while providing a comfortable driving experience. But choosing between them can be challenging. In this side-by-side comparison, we’ll dissect the GX and 4Runner, reveal their strengths, and help you pick the best SUV that fits your driving style and needs.

Exterior Styling

The Lexus GX and Toyota 4Runner both boast bold and distinctive exterior designs, catering to different tastes. The Lexus GX exudes sophistication and luxury with its sleek lines, chrome accents, and premium lighting features. It’s available in various elegant exterior colors, from classic black to rich metallic hues. The GX’s 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights add to its upscale appearance.

The Toyota 4Runner embraces a more rugged, adventurous look. Its boxy silhouette, prominent grille, and muscular fenders give it a tough, capable presence. The 4Runner is offered in various exterior colors, including Lime Rush and Voodoo Blue. With its 17-inch alloy wheels and projector-beam headlights, the 4Runner’s exterior styling reflects its off-road-ready nature.

Interior and Technology

The Lexus GX offers a premium, well-appointed interior in six trim levels. The GX offers seating for up to seven passengers, with the option of second-row captain’s chairs for added comfort. The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials, including standard leather upholstery and available wood trim. The front seats are heated and ventilated, ensuring comfort in any weather. The GX’s advanced infotainment system is centered around a 14-inch touch-screen display, offering intuitive controls and crisp graphics. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system further enhance the GX’s tech-forward interior.

The Toyota 4Runner’s interior prioritizes utility over luxury. While it also offers seating for up to seven passengers, the materials used are more utilitarian, with standard cloth upholstery and available SofTex synthetic leather. While functional, the 4Runner’s 8.0-inch touch-screen infotainment system lacks the size and advanced features found in the GX.

Performance

The Lexus GX is powered by a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine that delivers an impressive 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine combines a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. The GX’s powertrain provides strong acceleration and confident performance, both on and off the road. The Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V-6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While still capable, the 4Runner’s engine feels less powerful than the GX, especially when fully loaded or towing.

When it comes to fuel economy, the Lexus GX has a slight edge, achieving an EPA-estimated 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. The Toyota 4Runner, with its less efficient powertrain, is rated at 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. While neither vehicle is particularly fuel-efficient, the GX’s more modern engine technology helps it eke out a couple extra miles per gallon.

Off-Road Prowess

Both the Lexus GX and Toyota 4Runner are built to tackle challenging off-road terrain. The GX has a full-time 4WD system, a two-speed transfer case, and selectable drive modes, including crawl control and multi-terrain select. These features allow the GX to optimize its performance for various off-road conditions, from rocky trails to sandy dunes.

While not as technologically advanced as the GX, the Toyota 4Runner still offers impressive off-road capabilities. It has a part-time 4WD system, a locking rear differential, and terrain-specific driving modes. The 4Runner’s TRD Pro model is suitable for off-road adventures, with features such as FOX shocks, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. When it comes to ground clearance, the 4Runner has a slight advantage, offering up to 9.6 inches compared to the GX’s 8.1 inches. The GX’s sophisticated suspension and electronic aids may give it an edge in more challenging off-road situations.

Safety Ratings and Features

Safety is a top priority for both the Lexus GX and Toyota 4Runner. These SUVs have advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Lexus GX takes safety a step further, offering standard blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and trailer sway control. These features are either optional or not available on the 4Runner. While both vehicles perform well in crash tests, the GX’s superior safety features and ratings make it the safer choice for your family.

Towing Capabilities

When it comes to towing, the Lexus GX has a clear advantage over the Toyota 4Runner. When properly equipped, the GX boasts a maximum towing capacity of 8,000 pounds, while the 4Runner maxes out at 5,000 pounds. This significant difference in towing capacity makes the GX the better choice if you frequently tow larger items. Both the GX and 4Runner offer available towing packages that include features such as a receiver hitch, wiring harness, and trailer sway control. The GX’s more powerful engine and advanced drivetrain make it better suited for heavy-duty towing.

Pricing and Value

When it comes to pricing, the Lexus GX and Toyota 4Runner cater to different budgets. The Lexus GX has a starting MSRP of $64,250, reflecting its premium features, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. While this price point may be higher than some competitors, the GX justifies its cost with its superior capabilities and refined driving experience.

The Toyota 4Runner has a more affordable starting MSRP of $40,705. This lower price makes the 4Runner an attractive option if you’re budget-conscious but still want a capable, reliable SUV. Both the Lexus GX and Toyota 4Runner have strong resale values, which can help offset their initial costs over time. These SUVs are known for their durability and longevity, making them a smart investment if you plan to keep your vehicle for many years.

Experience the Lexus GX at Eskridge Lexus

At Eskridge Lexus, we believe the Lexus GX stands out as the superior choice if you’re looking for the perfect blend of luxury, performance, and safety in an off-road-capable SUV. Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer any questions and provide personalized assistance in finding the ideal Lexus GX to suit your needs and preferences. We invite you to visit our dealership and experience the Lexus GX firsthand. Take a test drive and feel the power of its twin-turbo V-6 engine, the comfort of its luxurious interior, and the confidence of its advanced safety features.