2019 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe marked a significant departure from Hyundai's traditionally conservative styling. It showcased a bold, futuristic exterior that set it apart from previous models. Despite some similarities to the Jeep Cherokee's design, Hyundai executed the look more effectively. Inside, the Santa Fe combined modern aesthetics with practical functionality, featuring deep compartments and a unique, organic ambiance with earthy tones and a textured headliner.

The 2020 Lexus GX, while updated with a new hourglass grille, retained much of its decade-old design. The interior, with its large buttons and recessed infotainment screen, harkened back to early 2010s Lexus styling. Despite its age, the GX's rugged capability, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, made it a reliable choice for off-road enthusiasts. The cabin's simplicity and functionality, including operable controls while wearing gloves, appealed to those who valued practicality over modern flair.

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe offered two engine options: a base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with power sent to either the front wheels or available all-wheel drive (AWD). The base engine was noted for its sluggishness, while the 2.0T provided strong acceleration and better performance. The Santa Fe's driving dynamics were composed, with well-weighted steering and minimal body roll, thanks to its low ground clearance of 7.2 inches. Fuel economy for the AWD turbo model was 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with standard 4-wheel drive (4WD). Despite its age, the V8 engine offered a powerful driving experience, with direct and responsive steering. The GX's self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth ride, and its 4WD system excelled in off-road conditions. The GX could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe offered 71 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 35.9 cubic feet with the seats up. The 60/40 split-fold rear bench was easy to drop, and the hands-free power liftgate added convenience. Despite its limited cargo space, the Santa Fe featured clever storage solutions, including multiple compartments and deep bins.

The 2020 Lexus GX provided 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space with all rear seats folded. The second-row captain's chairs, available on Premium and Luxury trims, offered easy access to the third row. However, getting into the third row was challenging for adults. The GX's side-opening rear hatch was unique but less practical than traditional designs. The separately opening rear window/hatch was a useful feature for quick access to the cargo area.

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a logical layout and bright graphics. The base SE trim included Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added satellite radio, HD Radio, and Hyundai’s BlueLink infotainment system with Alexa integration. The Ultimate trim upgraded to an 8-inch touchscreen, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its simplicity and large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls made it easy to use. The older Lexus Enform system was a true touchscreen, avoiding the frustrating Remote Touch cursor system found in newer models.

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front- and side-impact airbags, a reversing camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Hyundai's Smart Sense package included forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Safe Exit Assist System, which tied the rear child-proof locks to the blind-spot monitoring, was a notable addition.

The 2020 Lexus GX included the Lexus Safety System+ as standard, featuring forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available. The GX's excellent visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, further enhanced safety.