Best Hybrid SUVs: Highest-rated cars in Canada on Driving for 2024

Have you ever had a friend or family member who goes through such a wholesale change in personality that they are completely and utterly different from their past selves? That’s Santa Fe for this new model year. By adopting attractive square styling, three rows of seats, and available hybrid power, the Santa Fe moves farther up the vehicular food chain than at any point in its 25-year history. With the third row seating, it is now encroaching on the Hyundai Palisade territory. If you discount the third row however, its competition is a fun mix of Honda Pilot and Passport, Kia Sorento and Toyota Highlander to name a few.

What’s new with the Hyundai Santa Fe for 2024?

Just about everything, really. An expertly penned exterior suggests luxurious off-road vehicles costing thousands more, especially when clad with a muted choice of hue. Interesting hidden grab handles appear just aft of the rear side doors, facilitating access to roof boxes and putting an exclamation point on Hyundai’s desire to cater to the overlanding crowd with this thing.

A tremendous but very limited NHL Edition will delight hockey fans, while also being the only way to get the hybrid powertrain with top shelf creature comforts. Of interest to this writer is the XRT trim, packing knobbier tires and aspirations of heading into the woods to find berries and maybe growl at some bears. This trim pairs best with umber or dark green hues, we feel. The interior also gets a complete overhaul, now offering spacious accommodations for three rows of humans.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Performance

Two engine choices are on tap this year. First, a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 1.6L turbo mill and electrified gubbins heaves out a combined 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. A small 1.49-kWh lithium-ion battery holds the fort and chips in when it can. Eagle eyes can identify the presence of this engine by the lack of an exhaust tip out back. Meanwhile, a turbocharged 2.5L engine is good for 277 horses and 311 lb-ft of twist. Both engines run just fine on regular fuel.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Efficiency

According to the feds, a 2024 Santa Fe equipped with the 2.5L engine can muster 12.1 L/100km in the city or an impressive 8.8 L/100km on the highway which is a good number for a vehicle of this shape and size. Combined, it is not unreasonable to expect something in the neighborhood of 10.6 L/100km. XRT trim examples, with knobbier tires and a few styling differences, is rated at a slightly worse 12.2, 9.1, and 10.8 respectively. Figures for the hybrid are not yet available.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Safety

Late last November, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced its list of model year 2024 vehicles for crash testing as part of the agency’s 5-Star Safety Ratings system under its New Car Assessment Program. The new Santa Fe is on that list, so be sure to watch the NHTSA’s website for an update when they perform this task. As for active safety gear, the likes of blind-spot warnings and assists, forward collision avoidance, lane keeping, and a driver fatigue monitoring system are all part of the deal in 2024.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability

Car companies aren’t generally in the business of intentionally making unreliable products, so expect the Santa Fe to perform well once enough of the things have been roaming the streets for a sufficient chunk of time to comprise an acceptable sample size.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Interior

If you’re thinking ‘Range Rover’ up in here, Hyundai surely won’t argue (check out the design of that steering wheel, for starters). Santa Fe grows to three rows of seating, giving the entire family somewhere to stretch out. Numerous luxury upholstery choices are on offer, as are an array of trims, plus a yaffle of creature comforts appear on the option sheet. There are more charging ports than a gamer’s laptop (across all three rows) and anyone who can’t get comfortable in the seats of an Ultimate Calligraphy model needs to see a chiropractor.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Dimensions

From tip to tail, the new three-row Santa Fe measures 190.2 inches in length which is shorter than one might expect (about the same as a two-row Grand Cherokee, actually) though this speaks to the packaging efficiencies in this thing. Width is 74.8 inches, height with roof side rails is 69.7 inches, and minimum ground clearance is listed at 7.0” or 8.3 inches for the XRT.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Canadian Pricing

Speaking of the XRT, it is the most affordable trim, priced at $49,731 including fees but not sales taxes. Luxury trims start at $52,731 while the high-zoot Ultimate Calligraphy trades for $56,231. As is Hyundai’s wont, there are few options to select since the brand enjoys kitting each trim with lavish appointments instead of offering a huge options list. Want more? Move up the trim walk.

Making sure it “continues to exceed the diverse needs and expectations” of those shopping the mid-sized, upscale crossover segment, Lexus is offering no less than 18 models and trims built around four powerful yet efficient powertrains, including a range of self-charging hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Updates for 2024 include revised interior colour palettes, technology updates on certain trims, and a new NX 350 Premium trim.

2024 Lexus NX Powertrain

Starting at the bottom and working up the model range: The NX 250 features a 203-hp, 2.5L four-cylinder coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivers 184 lb-ft of torque, with a fuel efficiency rating of 8.4 L/100 km (city/highway combined). The NX 350 delivers even snappier performance thanks to a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder with intercooling and active noise control, plus an 8-speed automatic. This model generates 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain achieves a fuel efficiency rating of 9.5 L/100 km (city/highway combined).

For even greater efficiency, the NX 350h is built around a self-charging hybrid electric powertrain featuring a 2.5L four-cylinder and electronic continuously variable transmission. This configuration delivers 240 net hp, impressive torque and an equally impressive fuel economy rating of 6.0 L/100 km (city/highway combined). Finally, the NX 450h+ combines the best of electric vehicle and hybrid operation with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, an electronic continuously variable transmission and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. This setup generates 304 net horsepower with a fuel efficiency rating of 6.6 L/100 km (city/highway combined) and a 58 km electric-only range.

2024 Lexus NX Practicality

Inside, the NX offers a five-person cabin that may be upgraded on select models with features such as thematic interior illumination and a panoramic sunroof. More aggressive styling comes courtesy of Lexus F Sport packages, offered on four models. These feature unique enhancements including mesh grilles, 20-inch wheels, interior ornamentation, sport seats, a race-inspired steering wheel and aluminum pedals. Every NX features the Lexus Interface, an Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible multimedia and connectivity system with touch screen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Sirius XM satellite compatibility. All models are fitted with copious safety features, starting with Lexus Safety System + 3.0.

Unless you absolutely need the additional interior room, the NX is just as distinctive as the larger RX, while offering 90 per cent of that crossover’s luxury touch points, just in a slightly smaller and more efficient package. Its ride and handling are geared more for comfort than sport, but then again so are the rest of Lexus’s crossover lineup.

2024 Lexus NX Canadian Pricing

There is one trim level for the NX 250; the Signature has an MSRP of $48,900. NX 350 models (8 of them) start at $52,550 for the Premium and top out at $66,400 for the F Sport 3. The NX 350h line (6 trim levels) ranges from $51,400 for the Signature to $66,950 for the Executive. Finally, the NX 450h+ starts at $59,900 for the Ultra Premium and finishes up with the $76,600 F Sport 3.

Once one of the Blue Oval’s bread-and-butter models, the Escape continues to be a hot-seller for the brand – though rumours are circulating it may soon be supplanted by the Bronco Sport as Ford’s entrant in this murderously competitive segment.

What’s new with the Ford Escape for 2024?

After a comprehensive refresh last year in which the model finally ditched its suppository-inspired styling, there are only a few small changes for 2024. Its colour palette is slightly expanded with a new shade red depending on trim level, while the tasty Atlas Blue departs due to supply constraints. So-called Intelligent Access with a push-button starter is now standard on more trims than last year. The oddly titled Active trim is the entry-level model in Canada.

2024 Ford Escape Performance

There are two gasoline engines available in the 2024 Escape, or two hybrid options. First, the 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder makes 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque – and produces a unique exhaust note thanks to its trio of cylinders (not a common configuration). Further up the line is a 2.0L Ecoboost four-banger belting out a much more appropriate 250 ponies and 280 lb-ft of torque. Guess which one we prefer. An eight-speed automatic helps both engines.

On the hybrid side of this ledger, we find a 2.5L mill paired with electrified gubbins to produce a system total of 190 horses. By itself, the engine makes about four-fifths of that power with the electric motor bringing up the rest. Elect for the plug-in hybrid and one will find themselves in command of 210 horsepower courtesy of that same 2.5L gasoline engine but more robust hybrid contributions.

2024 Ford Escape Efficiency

Equipped with all-wheel drive, as most Escapes sold in Canada, the 1.5L engine should give about 8.4 L/100 km fuel efficiency in mixed driving environs. Allow for a few tenths in either direction if you’re driving in the city or on the highway. Upgrading to the more powerful 2.0L mill dents these numbers but not by a great deal, shaking out to 10.2, 7.6, and 9.1 L/100 km in town, highway, and combined conditions, respectively.

2024 Ford Escape Safety

The crash test dummies at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety give the current-gen Escape great marks in its traditional testing, including the tough overlap examinations. However, the updated side-impact test – which uses a battering ram of such height and mass to more accurately represent what’s out there on today’s roads – revealed work needs to be done to completely protect occupants. As such, the model does not earn any top safety pick awards.

2024 Ford Escape Reliability

Consumer Reports dings the Escape for its predicted reliability, giving it just a 2-of-5 score and pointing to past issues with overall fit and finish as a major gripe. No one wants wind or water leaks in their brand new crossover, after all. Estimated owner satisfaction is similarly dour, with CR survey respondents being happy with comfort and driving experience but displeased with overall value given some reliability and assembly jankiness.

2024 Ford Escape Interior

Taking more than a little bit of inspiration from other members of the Ford family, the recently redesigned Escape features dual-zone climate control on all trims (thanks, economies of scale) along with the expected phalanx of active safety helpers like lane keeping and pre-collision assists. A large tablet, placed in landscape orientation, and 12-inch screen for driver gauges is found in most trims, though some lesser ones make do with a smaller amount of digital real estate. The panoramic Vista Roof is optional – good news for those of us with NBA scholarships – but family-pleasing features like ample USB power ports abound in this interior.

2024 Ford Escape Dimensions

Total length of this model is the same for all trims, measuring 180.1 inches from tip to tail. Width, excluding mirrors, is an appropriate 78.7 inches and vehicle height without any roof racks or crossbars is 66.0 inches. In other words, it should fit in the vast majority of underground condo parking garages. There’s 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all the seats deployed, and towing tops out at 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

2024 Ford Escape Canadian Pricing

A total of six trims are on tap in our country, starting with the $35,044 Active. It costs less than $1,500 to step up to the ST-Line with an EcoBoost engine, though the hybrid powertrain in that trim is a $6,500 proposition. Do the math on fuel savings before buying. The tony Platinum and ST-Line Elite are both roughly $45,000 each, with their main differences being chrome-laced or blacked-out in terms of styling, respectively. Atop the heap is a plug-in hybrid for just a few hundred bones short of 50 grand.

The compact UX crossover first popped up in late 2018 as a 2019 model. Initially offered with a gas engine (the front-wheel-drive UX 200) as well as the AWD 250h hybrid, the 200 has been dropped from the lineup. The five-seat UX shares its platform with the Toyota Prius, and its fourth-generation hybrid drive system consists of a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder and three electric motors — two up front and one motor for the rear wheels. There are no significant changes for 2024.

2024 Lexus UX 250h Performance

Under the hood, the Lexus self-charging hybrid electric powertrain generates 181 net system horsepower, and is hooked up to a very smooth Direct Shift continuously variable transmission. Tipping the scales at 1,635 kilograms, the UX 250h is not going to wow anyone with scintillating acceleration — a flat out run to 100 km/h will take the better part of nine seconds. Switching from either Eco or Normal to Sport mode at least gives the impression of slightly more urge. Like many small four-cylinders, it takes on a coarser note under heavier throttle.

At the same time, the hybrid electric setup — built on the world’s most popular and proven advanced powertrain technologies — is also remarkably fuel efficient, with a city/highway combined rating of 6.0 L/100km. And all Canadian UX 250h models are built around an innovative electronic on-demand AWD system. This uses a rear-axle motor to provide exceptional stability and greater traction when accelerating, cornering, or driving on slippery surfaces, without compromising fuel efficiency or cargo space.

2024 Lexus UX 250h Practicality

The cabin itself isn’t as luxurious as other Lexus products, although it is cleanly styled with a modern yet simple vibe. Most controls fall easily to hand, and Lexus has dropped the “remote touch interface” (RTI) track pad to work the functions featured on the centre console touchscreen. Also, the volume slider for the audio system has been replaced by a simple knob.

Every UX 250h features the Lexus Interface – the brand’s North American designed, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible multimedia and connectivity system with touch screen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Sirius XM Satellite compatibility. The interface incorporates a natural language virtual assistant that enables a voice-first approach to navigation, media, communication, and other vehicle features.

Folding the 60/40 split rear seats open sup 486 litres of cargo capacity. The cargo deck opens to reveal a second storage area underneath, which increases carrying capacity by 26 per cent. The cabin offers 8-way power-adjustable front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. F Sport models add highly bolstered sport seats, aluminum pedals, paddle shifters and Active Sound Control.

2024 Lexus UX 250h Canadian Pricing

The 2024 UX 250h is offered in multiple model and five trim levels, starting with the $42,300 Premium. The Luxury ($47,100) builds on the Premium model. The three F Sport models are the Design ($43,950), Series 1 ($45,700) and Series 2 ($51,800).

The 2024 Toyota Venza is unchanged for the model year. Introduced as an all-new vehicle for 2021, with a name taken from a previous Toyota crossover, this five-seater midsize SUV comes in three trim levels and only as a hybrid. It competes in a crowded segment of gas-only and hybrid rivals, including the Chevrolet Blazer, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Volkswagen Tiguan and others, and from closer to home, the Lexus NX Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

What’s new with the Toyota Venza for 2024?

The 2024 Toyota Venza has no changes from 2023.

2024 Toyota Venza Performance

All 2024 Toyota Venza trims are powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that, on its own, makes 176 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. When the engine is combined with its hybrid electric motor, the system makes 219 horsepower. The hybrid system is self-charging and doesn’t get plugged in. An automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) sends engine power to the front wheels, while the standard all-wheel drive uses an electric motor at the rear to power the back wheels as needed for extra traction.

In his review of the 2023 Toyota Venza XLE, Brian Harper said that, “Now, with a weight of 1,770 kilograms and the hybrid setup pushing only 219 hp, the Venza isn’t going to win many stoplight grands prix — taking about eight seconds to hit 100 km/h — although putting it into Sport mode at least provides a sense of adequate acceleration for most needs. The engine gets noisy under heavier throttle, with things smoothing out dramatically at cruising speeds. Still, those considering a hybrid are generally more concerned with improved fuel economy... Overall, the ride is smooth and the handling is very predictable.”

2024 Toyota Venza Efficiency

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) rates the 2024 Toyota Venza at 5.9 L/100 km in the city, 6.4 on the highway, and 6.1 in combined driving. It has an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,769 on regular-grade gasoline.

2024 Toyota Venza Safety

The 2024 Toyota Venza gets the highest five-star crash-test rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2023 Venza its Top Safety Pick designation. It scored the top “Good” in all but one crash test; it earned the next-step-down “Acceptable” in the updated side impact test, which better simulates being struck by a larger SUV. It also earned “Acceptable” for its headlight performance.

All trims include emergency front braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, right/left turn pedestrian detection, left-turn oncoming traffic braking, lane departure assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, adaptive cruise control, lane trace assist, driver’s knee airbag, blind-spot monitoring, and the mandatory rearview camera. The top Limited trim further adds a rear camera washer, emergency rear braking, and bird’s-eye view camera.

2024 Toyota Venza Reliability Rating

The 2023 Toyota Venza earned a “Recommended” badge from Consumer Reports. It received a predicted reliability score of 4/5 and is expected to be “more reliable than the average new car,” based on data from the 2021 and 2022 models. In the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, Toyota as a brand ranked seventh among all automakers.

2024 Toyota Venza Interior

Features on the 2024 Toyota Venza LE include pushbutton start, wireless charger, power liftgate, eight-inch touchscreen with Toyota Multimedia connectivity trial subscriptions, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, fabric upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and tonneau cover. Upper trims add such items as a 12.3-inch centre screen, premium audio, heated steering wheel, power passenger seat, ventilated front seats, faux-leather upholstery, head-up display, digital display rearview mirror, and a panoramic glass roof that turns opaque when activated.

In his review of the 2021 Toyota Venza, Matthew Guy said that, “…less than practical are the controls for major functions found on Venza’s centre stack. Rather than deploying chunky dials for audio and ventilation as found in the RAV4, our tester was thick with capacitive touch non-buttons that are invisible to the touch, making it tough to tell if you’re actually raising the cabin temperature or futilely jabbing an index finger at shiny plastic. Lesser trims, like the LE, are blessed with real knobs and dials, units which should migrate to its XLE and Limited brothers.”

2024 Toyota Venza Dimensions

The 2024 Toyota Venza has an overall length of 4,740 mm (186.6 inches). Cargo capacity is a less-than-impressive 816L, and rear-seat legroom is a bit tight. When he drove the 2021 Toyota Venza, David Booth said that, “Surprisingly — and I say surprisingly because the Venza is, again, 144 millimetres longer overall than the RAV4 — the Venza’s trunk is some 25 per cent smaller than the RAV4. And yes, I checked, that disparity is identical with both the rear seats in situ and reclined. Blame it on the affectation that is the Venza’s swoopy and sloping roof, or perhaps its slightly higher load floor. But whatever the cause, the Venza has markedly less cargo space than its baby brother despite being almost six inches longer.”

2024 Toyota Venza Canadian Pricing

The 2024 Toyota Venza is $41,250 in LE trim; $48,390 in XLE; and the Limited is $51,850. While we don’t recommend a vehicle’s middle trim just because it’s the one with more features than base but not as pricey as the top trim, the Venza makes a solid case for the XLE. It builds on the LE with its larger centre screen, two power seats with ventilation, heated steering wheel and hands-free liftgate, while still staying below the $50,000 mark that the Limited breaks through.

The 2024 Lexus TX is an all-new model for this luxury brand. With three rows of seats for holding six or seven occupants, depending on the trim, the midsize TX shares its platform and driveline components with the new Toyota Grand Highlander. It’s offered as the gasoline-only TX 350; the TX 500h hybrid; and the TX 550h+, which is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The TX lineup competes against such rivals as the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Cadillac XT6, Genesis GV80, Lincoln Aviator, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Volvo XC90.

What’s new with the Lexus TX for 2024?

Basically everything, as the TX is an all-new vehicle for Lexus for 2024. It now occupies the slot previously held by the Lexus RX L, the three-row version of the automaker’s popular sport-utility. When that model was redesigned for 2023, it lost its third row, and the TX is now offered for those who need those extra seats. The TX uses the Toyota/Lexus GA-K platform, which it shares with the Lexus RX and NX, in addition to the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander. The TX is built in Toyota’s plant in Indiana, and is the first Lexus to be produced there.

2024 Lexus TX Performance

The TX lineup starts with the gasoline-only TX 350. It uses a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine that makes 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It includes all-wheel drive (AWD) that primarily powers the front wheels but can send up to 50 per cent of engine power to the rear wheels as needed for extra traction, using a mechanical connection.

The TX 500h also uses the turbocharged 2.4L, tweaked slightly to output of 271 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque on its own. When it’s working in combination with its self-charging hybrid system, you get a total of 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, and with a six-speed automatic transmission. Its AWD system, dubbed Direct4 AWD, uses a rear electric motor to power those rear wheels, which is does not just to provide traction on slippery surfaces but to improve driving performance, with as much as 80 per cent of power going to the back. It also includes rear steering, which automatically turns the rear wheels in conjunction with the front ones for tighter cornering.

The TX 550h+ PHEV uses a 3.5L V6 that makes 259 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque on its own, and up to 404 horsepower when working alongside its hybrid system. It uses an automatic continuously-variable transmission (CVT) and shares the TX 500h’s Direct4 AWD system. When it's charged, the TX 550h+ has an estimated 53 kilometres of battery-only range. When that depletes, it reverts to conventional hybrid operation, switching automatically between gasoline, electricity, or a combination depending on driving conditions.

In her first-drive review of the 2024 Lexus TX 350h, Stephanie Wallcraft said that, “The TX is steady, flat, and composed over a variety of terrains without being overly stiff, and it allows only a minimum of pitch or body roll. This model’s handling also benefits from some additional bracing and stiffening the TX receives relative to the Grand Highlander to impart a more refined drive feel. Overall, the TX handles and maneuvers exceptionally well for its size, and that’s before you dig into the upgrades available with the more expensive powertrains.”

2024 Lexus TX Efficiency

The 2024 Lexus TX 350, in gasoline only, is rated by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) at 11.5 L/100 km in the city, 8.9 on the highway, and 10.3 in combined driving, for an estimated annual cost of $3,502. The TX 500h hybrid is rated at 8.7 city, 8.4 highway, and 6.5 combined, for an annual cost of $2,924. Both ask for premium-grade fuel. At time of writing, NRCan hadn’t yet published fuel figures for the TX 550h+ PHEV.

2024 Lexus TX Safety

The 2024 Lexus TX hasn’t yet been rated by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). At time of writing, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) had conducted some of its crash tests, and the 2024 Lexus TX scored the highest “Good” in the passenger-side front overlap, but the next-step-down “Acceptable” in the driver-side front overlap. It scored the highest “Good” in the original moderate front overlap – the available updated test now assesses potential injury to a rear-seat passenger as well as those in the front – and “Good” in the updated side-crash test, which better simulates being struck by a large SUV.

Standard driver-assist safety features include blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, intuitive parking with auto braking, rear-seat reminder, adaptive cruise control, proactive driving assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, emergency front braking with pedestrian. motorcyclist and cyclist detection and intersection assist, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and mandatory rearview camera with added back guide monitor.

2024 Lexus TX Reliability Rating

Consumer Reports hasn’t yet given the 2024 Lexus TX a reliability rating, but said it expects it to be “more reliable than other new cars,” based on similar models and Lexus’ brand scores. This 2024 model obviously wasn’t included for a potential award in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, but in that report, Lexus as a brand overall scored the highest among all automakers.

2024 Lexus TX Interior

In his look at the 2024 Lexus TX, David Booth said that, “Lexus says the TX, like all its vehicles, has a driver-focused cockpit design. There’s also a huge 14-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system; a 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System; and no fewer than seven charging and communication ports and three power outlets. In other words, no one’s iPhone will be wanting for electricity. Ditto for cupholders and storage compartments, the front centre console even offering a stowage binnacle with a lid that opens in multiple directions.”

The TX 350 comes in three trim levels, starting with the Luxury, which includes that 14-inch touchscreen, 7-inch digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, heated power-adjustable steering wheel, eight-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and power-folding third row, among other features. The Ultra Luxury further adds a 12.3-inch cluster, ten-way power-adjustable leather-clad front seats, digital rearview mirror, and hands-free liftgate. The top Executive trim comes with six- or seven-passenger seating and adds a panoramic view monitor, head-up display, and on the six-passenger, ventilated second-row captain’s chairs.

The TX 500h hybrid is for six passengers, and comes in F Sport Performance 2 or F Sport Performance 3 trim – the vehicle’s performance doesn’t change, but the higher number indicates more features. The two are similarly-equipped to the highest trim levels of the TX 350, but with F Sport-specific seats and accent trim.

2024 Lexus TX Dimensions

The 2024 Lexus TX has an overall length of 5,160 mm (203 inches). In his review of the Lexus TX, David Booth said that, “Access to the third row is made easier with a slide-assist walk-in mechanism. With a press of the switch on the seat shoulder, the seat first tilts forward, and then a ‘slide assist’ spring slides and folds the second-row seats. If you do order the captain’s chairs, there’s another storage compartment in the second-row centre console which can either hold a tablet or drinks, thanks to a removable cupholder.” Third-row legroom is a fairly generous 851 mm (33.5 inches).

Cargo capacity is 572 litres with the third row upright, and 1,625 litres when they’re folded down. Towing capacity for all models is maximum 5,000 lbs.

2024 Lexus TX Canadian Pricing

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 starts at $68,750 in Luxury trim, before freight and taxes. The Ultra Luxury is $71,500; and the Executive is $79,500 for seven passengers, and $80,250 in six-passenger. The TX 500h is $84,200 for the F Sport Performance 2, and $90,200 for the F Sport Performance 3. Pricing for the TX 550h+ PHEV hadn’t been announced at time of writing.

As far as our recommendation for best value, in her first-drive review of the 2024 Lexus TX, Stephanie Wallcraft put it best: “Lexus is currently selling a lot of hybrids: more than 50 per cent of its Canadian sales in 2023 have been vehicles with electrified powertrains. But there’s no hybrid here that’s strictly tuned for fuel consumption. Instead, the hybrid and PHEV models lean into the improved performance that comes with electrification…” She adds that if it’s just about fuel consumption, “… there’s not as much benefit to choosing a TX hybrid as one might expect…If you’re looking for more power and the best possible performance out of your TX, you may consider the TX 500h to be worth the premium. But the power output and handling on the TX 350 AWD are excellent without the suspension and drivetrain upgrades offered on the hybrids, and so in our view it’s the gas-only version of the TX that delivers the best overall value.”

The Kia Sorento midsize SUV gets a major update for 2024, with new styling and features. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions are updated along with the gasoline-only model. It features three rows of seats, with enough chairs for six or seven depending on trim, and competes in a crowded segment that also includes the Ford Explorer, Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Ascent, and Toyota Highlander.

What’s new with the Kia Sorento for 2024?

Updates to the 2024 Kia Sorento include a new grille and daytime running lights, new taillights, and wider rear skid plate. New exterior colours include Jungle Green and Road Rider Brown. A new X-Pro trim adds exclusive front and rear skid plates, bridge-style roof rack, unique 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and towing capacity of up to 4,500 lbs.

Inside, the Sorento adds an available panoramic curved display with two 12.3-inch screens with Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit operating system and over-the-air (OTA) updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard on all trims. A digital key is available, allowing the vehicle to be operated by a compatible smartphone. The emergency front braking has been upgraded for pedestrian and cyclist detection, and oncoming traffic when turning left. The highway driving assist feature adds automatic lane change, and a digital camera mirror and surround-view monitor are available.

2024 Kia Sorento Performance

The 2024 Kia Sorento in LX trim uses a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that makes 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All other trims – the EX, X-Line, X-Line Limited, and X-Pro – use a turbocharged 2.5L that makes 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, with an automatic eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. All trims are all-wheel drive (AWD).

The Sorento Hybrid uses a turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder engine with hybrid system, making 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sorento PHEV uses the same engine but with a battery that adds up to 51 km of electric-only driving when it’s fully charged, and reverts to self-charging hybrid operation when that charge depletes. In her review of the 2022 version of that model, Renita Naraine said that, “As a driver, I love it and could totally see myself in this car. It boasts great fuel ratings, it drives smoothly, it’s fairly affordable in the lower trims, and it’s really comfortable.”

2024 Kia Sorento Efficiency

The 2024 Kia Sorento in gas-only hadn’t been officially rated by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) at time of writing, but Kia reports that it achieves 10.2 L/100 km in city driving, 8.5 on the highway, and 9.4 in combined driving. The two other models have been officially rated, and the hybrid comes in a 6.5 L/100 km city, 7.1 highway, and 6.8 combined, for an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,972. The PHEV rates 6.7 city, 7.1 highway, and 6.9 combined; its electric-only range is 51 km and it achieves 3.0 Le/100 km on its battery – for litres equivalent, the electric energy comparable to gasoline energy – and an annual fuel cost of $1,293.

2024 Kia Sorento Safety

The 2024 Kia Sorento lineup hadn’t been fully rated by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at time of writing, but the Hybrid earned four out of five stars. It also hadn’t been fully tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) but got the top “Good” rating in small overlap front crash, the original moderate overlap front crash, and the original side crash test. It earned “Acceptable,” the next step down, for ease-of-use of its child seat tethers.

Standard features include emergency front braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and oncoming traffic detection, lane-keep assist, lane-following assist, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, blind-spot collision avoidance, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and rearview monitor with parking guidance. Upper trims can add highway driving assist, emergency rear braking, surround-view monitor, and a blind-spot monitor that shows what’s alongside in the instrument cluster display when the turn signal is activated.

2024 Kia Sorento Reliability Rating

The 2024 Kia Sorento receives a “Recommended” rating from Consumer Reports. It gets a predicted reliability rating of 47/100, and CR expects it to have “about average reliability when compared to the average new car,” based on data from the previous three model years plus Kia’s brand scores. The Sorento didn’t win an individual award in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, but Kia overall ranked eighth among all automakers.

2024 Kia Sorento Interior

The base 2024 Kia Sorento LX trim includes heated cloth seats, power driver’s seat, seven-passenger seating, and manual climate control. Upper trims can add leather-look or real cowhide upholstery, second-row heated captain’s chairs for six-passenger seating, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and rear sun blind.

2024 Kia Sorento Dimensions

The 2024 Kia Sorento has an overall length of 4,815 mm. Legroom is generous for the first and second rows, but at just 752 mm, the third row is tight. In her review of the 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV, Renita Naraine said that, “The third-row seat bottoms are also very low to the floor. I commented on this when testing the 2021 Sorento, because my seven-year-old was especially excited that her feet could touch the ground. Consider this, however: her legs aren’t very long; if her feet touch the ground while she’s sitting on a booster seat, anyone who is the slightest bit taller than her will have their knees up roughly around chest level.”

The LX and EX can tow up to 2,000 lbs; the X-Line and X-Line Limited up to 3,500 lbs; and the new X-Pro up to 4,500 lbs. Cargo volume is 357 litres behind the third row; up to 1,274 litres when that row is folded; and 2,139 litres when the third and second rows are down.

2024 Kia Sorento Canadian Pricing

The 2024 Kia Sorento starts at $38,975 in LX trim. From there, the EX is $42,975; the X-Line is $47,975; the X-Line Limited is $50,975; and the new-for-2024 X-Pro is $52,475.

The Sorento Hybrid comes as the LX at $39,295, and the EX at $44,595. The PHEV comes in three trims: The EX at $48,795; the EX+ at $53,795; and the SX at $58,195. The PHEV (but not the hybrid) may qualify for “green” rebates for electric vehicles, at the federal level and, depending on where you’re located, possibly at the provincial level also.

One of the most popular Lexus models on sale, this five-seater SUV has gained a new plug-in hybrid variant with an emphasis on fuel efficiency. There are 14 different trim levels of the RX to pick from so finding one to suit your needs shouldn’t be too difficult.

What’s new with the Lexus RX for 2024?

The headline this year is the RX 450h+, which is a plug-in hybrid version of the RX. The automaker also has a cool digital key feature that lets you use your mobile device as a key.

2024 Lexus RX Performance

There are four different powertrain configurations in the Lexus RX family. The basic (and only gas-exclusive model in the lineup) RX 350 model features a 2.4L turbocharged engine with 275 hp, while the RX 350h features 246 combined horsepower and improved fuel efficiency. Those with a need for more performance can opt for the RX 500h, which packs 367 hp, or if you want even better efficiency, the plug-in RX 450h+ has a combined output of 304 hp, and some extended EV driving range.

In Stephanie Wallcraft’s recent review, she noted that “Power delivery in the RX is quick and responsive, especially in sport mode.” Furthermore, they said the SUV feels “planted and stable, even when pushed while soaking up road imperfections. The 500h also comes with standard active four-wheel steering. This feature allows the rear wheels to turn up to four degrees for tighter turning.”

2024 Lexus RX Efficiency

The most efficient model in the Lexus RX lineup is the 350h, which has a combined consumption rating of about 6.5 L/100 km. The 500h isn’t far off, at 8.6 L/100 km, while the gas-only RX 350 delivers 9.9 L/100 km. The plug-in hybrid model is new this year and has an all-electric range of 60 km, and a combined fuel consumption of 6.7 L/100 km when that battery is depleted.

2024 Lexus RX Safety

The Lexus RX wouldn’t be so successful if it had a red flag like poor safety ratings. Fortunately, it’s been given a Top Safety Pick + by the IIHS. A major part of this is the all-encompassing Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which includes automatic high beam headlights, dynamic radar cruise control with curve speed management, road sign assist, emergency driving stop support, lane departure alert with steering assist, pedestrian detection/braking, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, bicycle detection and motorcycle detection, risk avoidance emergency steer assist and proactive driving assist.

2024 Lexus RX Reliability Rating

Lexus and reliability go hand-in-hand. The automaker is known to make some of the most reliable vehicles on the market and was recently rated by Consumer Reports as fourth in the whole industry in terms of reliability.

2024 Lexus RX Interior

The cabin of the Lexus RX is well-appointed and high quality, but reviewers have noted that it’s a bit monotonous. Fortunately, it's loaded with useful technology including a large infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, USB-A and USB-C ports and a digital rearview camera mirror.

2024 Lexus RX Dimensions

There’s plenty of space in the Lexus RX, especially for rear-seat passengers, as those seats can recline for more comfort. You’ll find 838 litres behind the rear seats and 1,308 litres with them folded.

2024 Lexus RX Canadian Pricing

There are 14 trim levels of the 2024 Lexus RX, starting at $59,450 for the RX 350 Premium, $61,450 for the RX 350h Premium, $81,100 for the RX 500h F SPORT Performance 2 and $86,950 for the RX 450h+.

One of the most popular Lexus models on sale, this five-seater SUV has gained a new plug-in hybrid variant with an emphasis on fuel efficiency. There are 14 different trim levels of the RX to pick from so finding one to suit your needs shouldn’t be too difficult.

What’s new with the Lexus RX for 2024?

The headline this year is the RX 450h+, which is a plug-in hybrid version of the RX. The automaker also has a cool digital key feature that lets you use your mobile device as a key.

2024 Lexus RX Performance

There are four different powertrain configurations in the Lexus RX family. The basic (and only gas-exclusive model in the lineup) RX 350 model features a 2.4L turbocharged engine with 275 hp, while the RX 350h features 246 combined horsepower and improved fuel efficiency. Those with a need for more performance can opt for the RX 500h, which packs 367 hp, or if you want even better efficiency, the plug-in RX 450h+ has a combined output of 304 hp, and some extended EV driving range.

In Stephanie Wallcraft’s recent review, she noted that “Power delivery in the RX is quick and responsive, especially in sport mode.” Furthermore, they said the SUV feels “planted and stable, even when pushed while soaking up road imperfections. The 500h also comes with standard active four-wheel steering. This feature allows the rear wheels to turn up to four degrees for tighter turning.”

2024 Lexus RX Efficiency

The most efficient model in the Lexus RX lineup is the 350h, which has a combined consumption rating of about 6.5 L/100 km. The 500h isn’t far off, at 8.6 L/100 km, while the gas-only RX 350 delivers 9.9 L/100 km. The plug-in hybrid model is new this year and has an all-electric range of 60 km, and a combined fuel consumption of 6.7 L/100 km when that battery is depleted.

2024 Lexus RX Safety

The Lexus RX wouldn’t be so successful if it had a red flag like poor safety ratings. Fortunately, it’s been given a Top Safety Pick + by the IIHS. A major part of this is the all-encompassing Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which includes automatic high beam headlights, dynamic radar cruise control with curve speed management, road sign assist, emergency driving stop support, lane departure alert with steering assist, pedestrian detection/braking, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, bicycle detection and motorcycle detection, risk avoidance emergency steer assist and proactive driving assist.

2024 Lexus RX Reliability Rating

Lexus and reliability go hand-in-hand. The automaker is known to make some of the most reliable vehicles on the market and was recently rated by Consumer Reports as fourth in the whole industry in terms of reliability.

2024 Lexus RX Interior

The cabin of the Lexus RX is well-appointed and high quality, but reviewers have noted that it’s a bit monotonous. Fortunately, it's loaded with useful technology including a large infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, USB-A and USB-C ports and a digital rearview camera mirror.

2024 Lexus RX Dimensions

There’s plenty of space in the Lexus RX, especially for rear-seat passengers, as those seats can recline for more comfort. You’ll find 838 litres behind the rear seats and 1,308 litres with them folded.

2024 Lexus RX Canadian Pricing

There are 14 trim levels of the 2024 Lexus RX, starting at $59,450 for the RX 350 Premium, $61,450 for the RX 350h Premium, $81,100 for the RX 500h F SPORT Performance 2 and $86,950 for the RX 450h+.

Serving as one of the Korean brand’s longest running nameplates, the Sportage continues to show up as a bread-and-butter member of Kia’s increasingly broad lineup of SUVs and crossovers. It currently sits in the middle of the range in terms of size; the Seltos and Soul are on the smaller side but the Sorento and Telluride serve as larger siblings.

What’s new with the Kia Sportage for 2024?

Following a redesign last year, the 2024 Sportage arrives with a raft of mindful updates, including small interior changes and some safety additions. Speaking to the latter, seat-mounted airbags now appear in the second row, while new projection-type LED headlights are standard across the board.

2024 Kia Sportage Performance

These days, a 2.5L four-cylinder engine making 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque is the sole engine choice regardless of trim. While this and the eight-speed automatic transmission make for easy ordering, it means that spending more on a pricier trim brings additional features instead of extra power. Only the base LX trim can be opted in front-wheel drive.

2024 Kia Sportage Efficiency

Expect fuel economy of a front-wheel drive Sportage to be roughly 8.3 L/100 km in mixed city and highway driving, braking down to 9.3 and 7.1 in those environs, respectively. The far more popular all-wheel drive configuration dings that performance to 9.5 L/100 km combined (10.1 / 8.7 in city / highway), thanks to weight and friction.

2024 Kia Sportage Safety

Upon its redesign this time last year, the Sportage garnered a Top Safety Pick rating due in no small part to positive performances in small overlap and side impact crash tests. The child seat anchors were deemed fussy to use by testers at the IIHS.

2024 Kia Sportage Reliability

Praising its interior dimensions, Consumer Reports nevertheless gives the Sportage a middling 3-of-5 score for predicted reliability, though we’re not sure why thanks to this model’s positive performances in just about every major category. The sole suggested trouble spot is the climate system which could be down to confusing controls instead of some physical issue.

2024 Kia Sportage Interior

Customers expect a raft of value from Kia, a trait in which the Sportage delivers. Even the least expensive LX gets hearted front seats, climate vents for the rear passengers, and a height adjustable driver’s perch. All trims save for the LX get some form of leather upholstery (fake or otherwise), though the snazzy 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen doesn’t appear until the EX.

2024 Kia Sportage Dimensions

This crossover spans 4,660 mm (183.5 inches) in length while standing 1,665 mm (65.5 inches) in height. Minimum ground clearance on all-wheel drive models is 210 millimetres (8.2 inches), a competitive sum in its segment. Towing capacity, when properly equipped, is 2,500 pounds.

2024 Kia Sportage Canadian Pricing

Technically, the 2024 Sportage starts at $29,995, though that is for a base front-wheel drive LX nor does that sum include fees or taxes. Still, it permits Kia to advertise the thing for under thirty grand. Adding all-wheel drive to that trim is a $2,000 proposition. A top rung X-Line Limited is $42,795 plus fees, putting it squarely in territory of the much larger Sorento.