2025 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2025 Lexus GX 550

Choosing between the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and the 2025 Lexus GX 550 is a tall order. These SUVs have similarities, such as a body-on-frame platform and impressive off-road capabilities. Some features vary, including interior design, target audience, and pricing. 

Are you ready for the ultimate Toyota 4Runner vs. Lexus GX 550 battle? At Longo Toyota El Monte, California, we’ve compiled the following comparison to assist you. 

If you’re looking to test-drive the new 2025 Toyota 4Runner, give our team a call at 626-539-2113. If you’re looking to test-drive the new 2025 Lexus GX instead, feel free to call our neighboring Lexus dealership, Longo Lexus, at 626-539-2955.

Overview of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner 

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner has many appealing features, making it a favorite for SUV enthusiasts. The 4Runner is a reliable off-road vehicle ideal for exploring diverse terrains, and it features a simple yet modern, functional interior.  

For the first time, the 4Runner is powered by a turbo 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that renders it more powerful and fuel-efficient than some of its opponents, such as the Jeep Wrangler and the Ford Bronco. Other features include enhanced handling, advanced safety systems, and excellent build quality.

Overview of the 2025 Lexus GX 550 

The Lexus GX 550 offers a smooth, responsive drive due to its twin-turbo V-6 engine. Like the 4Runner, it’s built on the Toyota New Global Architecture full-frame platform that kicks its off-road prowess and durability up a notch. 

The 2025 Lexus GX 550’s premium plus interior is streamlined using high-quality materials to cater to owners who value luxury and comfort. Other notable features include three rows of seats for up to seven passengers and a split third-row bench, with an available power-folding feature, that increases cargo space. 

The higher trim levels boast a panoramic sunroof that brings natural light and fresh air into the cabin, making it feel more spacious. 

2025 Toyota 4Runner vs. Lexus GX 550 Comparison 

If you can’t decide between the Toyota 4Runner or the Lexus GX 550, here’s our comprehensive comparison to help you make a valid choice.

Engine and Performance 

You have two engine options for the Toyota 4Runner — the turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, or the more powerful i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine that generates 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. 

The Lexus GX 550 is powered by a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The GX 550’s horsepower and torque output beat the Toyota’s turbo four-cylinder, but the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine easily matches the GX 550’s V-6 power output. 

Fuel Economy and Efficiency 

The 4Runner’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 22 mpg combined for rear-wheel-drive models and 21 mpg combined for four-wheel-drive models. It exceeds the Lexus GX 550’s EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined across all trim levels. Both these rides are thirsty, particularly when compared to others in their class. 

Interior and Comfort Features 

While the Toyota 4Runner has a functional, utilitarian interior design, the GX 550 offers an upscale, luxurious space. The 4Runner features an eight-inch touch-screen infotainment system, and you can upgrade to the available 14-inch touch screen. The Lexus GX 550 has a 14-inch touch screen, and both SUVs come with Toyota’s latest audio multimedia system. 

The GX 550 features “Hey Lexus,” an advanced voice assistant that enables you to control vehicle functions. Both vehicles boast heated and ventilated front seats, with some GX 550 trims featuring a massage function to enhance passenger comfort.  

The front headroom and legroom of the Lexus are 39.4 inches and 41.2 inches, respectively. It’s slightly shorter than the 4Runner’s 39.7 inches of front headroom and 41.8 inches of front legroom, but the GX 550 offers more rear headroom and legroom than the 4Runner. 

Off-Road Capabilities 

Both SUVs are on par with each other as far as off-road capabilities. The Lexus GX 550 boasts robust off-road features, such as low-range gearing, full-time four-wheel drive, a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and crawl control. 

The 4Runner shares most of these features, including the crawl control, but prioritizes ruggedness. While the Lexus strives to provide a balance of luxury and off-road capabilities. 

Safety Features and Ratings

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is yet to release the 2025 safety ratings for the 4Runner and GX 550 models. Both vehicles have exciting safety features, with the GX 550 featuring the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which helps prevent collisions and assists drivers. The Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 serves the same purpose and is standard on the 4Runner. 

Pricing and Value Analysis 

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner’s starting MSRP is $40,770, a more affordable option than the GX 550 with its starting MSRP of $65,585. Practicality and ruggedness match the 4Runner’s price tag, in contrast, the GX 550s higher price point reflects the brand’s prestige and luxurious features. 

4Runner vs. GX 550: Deciding What You Need 

Whether you get the 4Runner or the GX 550 depends on your needs and preferences. If you want to explore off-road trails without saying goodbye to comfort and prestige, the GX takes the win. If you prefer a strong, rugged, capable off-roader, the Toyota is your best option.

Frequently Asked Questions: Lexus GX 550 vs. Toyota 4Runner

Here are some common questions about the 2025 Lexus GX 550 and the 2025 Toyota 4Runner.

Are the 4Runner and GX 550 the Same?

The Lexus GX 550 has the same body-on-frame platform and off-road capabilities as the 4Runner, but it’s more sophisticated. 

Does the Toyota 4Runner Offer a Better Driving Experience Than the Lexus GX 550?

The 4Runner’s ride quality Isn’t as smooth and comfortable as the GX 550’s. Primarily because the Toyota focuses on ruggedness while the Lexus prioritizes luxury and comfort. 

Is the Lexus GX a 4Runner?

No, the GX 550 isn’t a 4Runner, even though both models are manufactured by the Toyota Motor Corporation.

Lexus GX vs. 4Runner: Which SUV Is Right for You? 

At first glance, the 2025 Lexus GX and the 2025 4Runner look similar, but it’s their distinguishing features that make them suitable for various SUV lovers. If you’re after an affordable SUV built to handle the rough stuff, go with the Toyota 4Runner. It’s easy in El Monte, California, to get in touch with us at Longo Toyota, the nation’s leading Toyota dealer, and view our large inventory of used and new Toyota vehicles. Our friendly, competent sales staff are ready to help you explore your options. 

Tags: 2025 Lexus GX 550, 2025 Toyota 4Runner
Posted in New Inventory | No Comments »