For families looking to upgrade their driving experience in 2025, two standout contenders have entered the full-size 3-row SUV ring—the Toyota Grand Highlander and the Lexus TX. Built on the same platform but designed for different audiences, these two vehicles offer space, technology, and comfort with distinct approaches to value and luxury.
So which one is the better 3-row SUV for you? We’ll break down the most important categories—interior space, performance, technology, safety, and overall value—to help you make the right choice.
Overall Design Philosophy
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is Toyota’s long-awaited answer to families who needed more room than the standard Highlander could provide. It’s bigger, more refined, and prioritizes function over flash. This SUV focuses on smart packaging, spaciousness, and efficiency.
The 2025 Lexus TX, on the other hand, takes that same practicality and wraps it in a luxury-first mindset. As a new nameplate in the Lexus lineup, the TX emphasizes upscale design, smoother driving, and advanced tech tailored to premium buyers.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both SUVs offer spacious three-row seating, but the Toyota Grand Highlander gets the edge in overall flexibility. With seating for up to 8 passengers, it’s one of the roomiest vehicles in its class. Adults can comfortably sit in the third row, and cargo space behind the third row is impressive at 20.6 cubic feet, expanding to 97.5 cubic feet with all seats folded.
The Lexus TX seats 6 or 7, depending on configuration, and features captain’s chairs in many trims for second-row passengers. Materials are softer, with more soundproofing, ambient lighting, and a cleaner aesthetic. Cargo space is slightly smaller than the Grand Highlander, but the comfort and finish are noticeably more premium.
Winner (Space): Toyota Grand Highlander
Winner (Luxury Comfort): Lexus TX
Powertrain Options and Performance
The Grand Highlander offers three engine options:
A 2.4L turbocharged I4 with 265 hp (standard)
A 2.5L hybrid with 245 hp
A Hybrid MAX performance variant with 362 hp and AWD
The Hybrid MAX delivers quick acceleration, while the base engines provide solid fuel economy and smooth highway cruising.
The Lexus TX also offers three powertrains:
A TX 350 with the same 2.4L turbo (275 hp)
A TX 500h hybrid performance variant (366 hp)
A TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid with AWD and all-electric capability
Both SUVs deliver strong acceleration with their top trims, but the Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in model offers electric-only driving for shorter commutes—something the Toyota doesn’t offer.
Winner (Performance Variety): Lexus TX
Winner (Fuel Economy): Lexus TX 550h+
Winner (Affordability vs. Power): Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX
Technology and Infotainment
The Grand Highlander is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available JBL sound system. The interface is user-friendly and offers over-the-air updates. There’s also a digital rearview mirror, panoramic camera, and plenty of USB-C ports across all three rows.
The Lexus TX elevates the tech game with a more refined 14-inch infotainment screen, head-up display, and an optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. It includes Cloud Navigation, Lexus voice assistant, and multi-user profiles that remember each driver’s settings.
Winner (User-Friendly): Toyota Grand Highlander
Winner (Advanced Tech & Audio): Lexus TX
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both SUVs come standard with a full suite of advanced driver assistance features.
Toyota Grand Highlander Safety Sense 3.0 includes:
Adaptive cruise control
Lane tracing assist
Road sign assist
Proactive driving assist
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 adds:
Curve speed management
Traffic jam assist
Enhanced blind-spot and cross-traffic alert
While Toyota’s system is impressive and standard across all trims, the Lexus builds upon it with more refinements and comfort-focused aids for daily commuting.
Winner (Standard Safety Value): Toyota Grand Highlander
Winner (Luxury Safety Features): Lexus TX
Ride Quality and Driving Experience
The Grand Highlander rides well, especially with the hybrid options. It’s smooth, quiet, and composed on long trips. It leans toward utility, with a slightly firmer suspension tuned for cargo and family hauling.
The Lexus TX prioritizes serenity. Ride quality is buttery-smooth thanks to its adaptive suspension and sound insulation. It feels more planted and quieter at highway speeds, with more precise steering feel.
Winner (Smoothness & Handling): Lexus TX
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Toyota Grand Highlander starts around $43,000, with top trims nearing $58,000 for the Hybrid MAX.
The Lexus TX starts at about $55,000 and can exceed $70,000 with all options.
For the price difference, you’re paying for premium features, brand prestige, and cabin refinement. However, the Grand Highlander gives you much of the same versatility at a lower cost.
Winner (Value for Money): Toyota Grand Highlander
Winner (Prestige and Premium Feel): Lexus TX
Final Verdict: Which 3-Row SUV Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander if you:
Want a spacious family SUV with excellent utility
Need affordable hybrid or performance options
Prioritize practicality, safety, and flexible seating
Are price-sensitive but still want premium features
Choose the 2025 Lexus TX if you:
Want a quiet, refined luxury SUV with smoother ride quality
Appreciate premium interior materials and audio systems
Plan to take advantage of plug-in hybrid capability
Value tech innovation and modern luxury aesthetics
Both SUVs are excellent choices built on the same DNA. The Grand Highlander is ideal for families who want substance and space without breaking the bank. The Lexus TX is for buyers who want luxury to go with their family functionality.
