Is the Lexus GX the same size as the 4Runner?
No. The Lexus GX is larger overall than the Toyota 4Runner, with a longer wheelbase and more interior space.
Both models sit in the mid-size, body-on-frame SUV segment and are built to handle off-road duties, but the GX prioritizes luxury and cabin room, while the 4Runner emphasizes rugged practicality and value. The following sections break down how they compare in exterior size, interior space, and everyday practicality.
Exterior footprint and overall dimensions
In this section, you’ll find a straightforward comparison of exterior size and how each SUV sits on the road. The figures below are general trends that hold across recent model years, though exact numbers vary by year and trim.
- Length and wheelbase: The GX typically wears a longer body and longer wheelbase than the 4Runner, which translates to more legroom for rear passengers and a larger rear cargo area when the third row is folded.
- Width and stance: Both vehicles are built to fit in the mid-size range and share similar widths, with only a slight variation depending on year and trim. In practical terms, you’ll notice the GX presents a broader, more imposing architectural feel, while the 4Runner looks more compact in tight spaces.
- Height and approach/ departure: The GX often reads as slightly taller, especially in its luxurious trims, which can affect rooftop clearance and garage entry. The 4Runner remains a traditional, truck-like silhouette with a focus on off-road angles.
Overall takeaway: The GX’s exterior footprint is generally larger than the 4Runner’s, contributing to a roomier cabin and a more substantial road presence, at the cost of a larger turning circle and slightly tighter maneuvering in very tight spaces.
Interior space and seating configuration
This section highlights how interior space compares, including seating capacity and cargo practicality. Configurations can differ by model year and market, so use these points as a general guide.
- Seating capacity: The GX commonly offers seating for seven passengers in many markets, including a third-row option. The 4Runner is typically configured for five passengers, with two rows of seats in most US-spec trims.
- Rear-seat legroom and comfort: The GX’s longer wheelbase and premium interior typically yield more generous second- and third-row legroom and overall comfort, especially on longer trips.
- Cargo space: With the third row folded or removed, the GX usually provides ample cargo room, and in configurations with seven passengers, the space behind the third row can still be usable for smaller loads. The 4Runner’s cargo area is generous for a two-row setup, but it shrinks more quickly when the second row is in use.
Bottom line: If you value passenger capacity and a more accommodating interior, the GX has the edge. If you prioritize a straightforward, two-row layout with ample cargo space and a smaller overall footprint, the 4Runner is more practical.
Bottom line and practical takeaway
Size differences between the Lexus GX and the Toyota 4Runner are real and meaningful for daily usability, seating flexibility, and cargo capacity. The GX is typically larger, offering more interior space and a three-row setup in many markets, while the 4Runner offers a more compact, rugged option with a strong value proposition. Your choice may come down to whether you prefer added passenger space and luxury feel (GX) or leaner dimensions with straightforward, no-nonsense off-road capability (4Runner).
Summary
Bottom-line takeaway: The Lexus GX is not the same size as the Toyota 4Runner. The GX generally provides a larger exterior footprint, more seating options, and greater cargo versatility, reflecting its premium positioning. The 4Runner remains a tighter, more affordable option with a rugged, utilitarian character. For buyers who need maximum interior space and comfort, the GX is the bigger choice; for those who prioritize maneuverability and value, the 4Runner is often the better fit.
