Mar 21, 2024
2024 Lexus GX vs Toyota Grand Highlander

The Lexus GX and Toyota Grand Highlander should be high on your list if you’re looking for a luxury SUV or crossover. These bestselling models are back with 2024 models that offer roomy interiors, versatile cargo spaces, impressive features, and reliable powertrains that enhance their off-road performance. Our team at Longo Lexus put together this comparative guide to showcase how the 2024 Lexus GX and Toyota Grand Highlander stack up and help you choose the vehicle that best suits your needs and preferences.

2024 Lexus GX 

The 2024 Lexus GX is the latest model of this classic luxury SUV that has featured prominently on roads across the United States since 2002. The latest version updates the iconic design with a bolder exterior, a more spacious seven-passenger cabin, increased ground clearance, and improved off-road capabilities. The 2024 GX moves seamlessly from city streets to rugged terrain thanks to its 349-horsepower 3.4-liter V-6 twin-turbo engine and full-time four-wheel drive. Intuitive features such as powered access to the cargo area, automated running boards, and the 14-inch infotainment touchscreen make this an excellent family vehicle.

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander 

Toyota’s 2024 Grand Highlander is a great midsize crossover seating up to eight people. This year’s model refreshes the Grand Highlander’s bold silhouette with stylish detailing and a distinctive front grille. Its versatile interior caters to an active lifestyle, providing between 20.6 and 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space with optional third-row seating. Its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, delivering power when needed. With the available Multi-Terrain Select with Trail Mode, you’ll be as confident driving the Highlander on country roads as you are heading to an after-school soccer game.

Comparing the 2024 Lexus GX vs. Toyota Grand Highlander

While the GX and Grand Highlander offer similar versatility, their value propositions differ.

Powertrain

Both SUVs are available with hybrid and gas powertrains. However, the engine and transmission specs for the GX exceed the Highlander. With the Lexus, you can expect a 349-horsepower, 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine with an efficient 10-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission. The Toyota’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo engine and eight-speed automatic transmission are respectable, but the 8,000-pound towing capacity of the GX eclipses the 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity of the Highlander. 

Safety Features

With industry-leading Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 technology, the GX provides superior safety to match its impressive road handling. Standard safety features include All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management and a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection. The Grand Highlander has a similar safety profile. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 provides essentials such as Advanced Parking Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert with Automatic Braking, and the brand’s Blind-Spot Monitor system.

Cargo Capacity

Cargo space matters to any SUV owner, but the flexibility of interior space is just as important as the overall capacity. Here, the family-friendly Grand Highlander outshines the GX with an impressive 97.5 cubic feet of utilizable cargo space, depending on your seating configuration. While Lexus has increased the total cargo volume in the 2024 GX, it’s limited if you opt for three rows of seating. You can expect a maximum capacity of 76.9 cubic feet in this vehicle. 

Interior Features

Both SUVs offer three rows of seating. The GX accommodates seven people, while the Grand Highlander seats a maximum of eight. However, the upholstery and seating in the Lexus outshine the Toyota’s. The GX features a luxurious Black NuLuxe-trimmed interior with Olive Ultrasuede accents. It also provides eight-way power-adjustable and heated front seats. The 2024 Grand Highlander is larger than its predecessor, and the SUV’s pleasingly spacious interior reflects this. You’ll enjoy comfortable SofTex-trimmed seating with power-adjustable, heated driver and front passenger seats.

Infotainment

Infotainment features in the Lexus and Toyota are largely similar. Both SUVs are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; however, the luxury GX has a 14-inch touch screen with Lexus Interface and an expansive digital gauge cluster that seamlessly interacts with the in-vehicle Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 10-speaker Lexus premium sound system. The GX also provides additional USB-C ports, which are handy if you need to charge devices on longer journeys.

Trim Levels

The 2024 Grand Highlander offers various trims, each taking luxury to a new level. You can opt for the base-level XLE, Limited, or Platinum. All models come standard with heated front seats and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Limited trim is a step up with genuine leather seating and heated seats for your second-row passengers. If you choose the Grand Highlander Platinum, you’ll enjoy heated front and second-row seating and standard all-wheel drive.

The 2024 Lexus GX trims reflect the caliber of this upscale vehicle, with Premium, Luxury, and Overtrail models that take you from city to country in style. You can upgrade from the base trim to enjoy superior features, such as front massaging seats,  a power-adjustable steering column with tilt and telescopic functions, and ambient lighting. 

2024 Lexus GX vs. Toyota Grand Highlander: Which Model Delivers Better Value?

There’s a noticeable price disparity between these two vehicles, but the GX delivers on its higher price tag, providing an upscale vehicle worthy of its luxury SUV status. The basic trim on the GX is comparable to the Premium trim on the Grand Highlander, which is around $10,000 cheaper. So, if you’re considering an upgraded Grand Highlander model, a GX may be within your budget. However, the basic Grand Highlander is an outstanding family vehicle, with a starting MSRP that’s $20,000 less than the GX’s, making it an excellent SUV if you prioritize affordability. 

Explore the 2024 Lexus GX and Toyota Grand Highlander in El Monte, California, Today

The 2024 Lexus GX and Toyota Grand Highlander are outstanding vehicles you need to experience firsthand. We invite you to visit our Longo Lexus or Toyota dealership in El Monte, California, to learn more about these vehicles and take a test drive. Our team is waiting to show you your next SUV.