2020 Lexus GX vs 2019 INFINITI QX50

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 was wider and taller than its predecessor, offering two extra inches of ground clearance and more interior space. The trunk provided 31.4 cubic feet of space behind modular rear seats that both slid and reclined. Despite these changes, rear legroom remained ample, even for a 6’4” individual, although the panoramic sunroof did bring the headliner uncomfortably close. The redesigned interior was spacious, attractive, and filled with high-quality materials and a new infotainment system. It was also exceptionally quiet, thanks to a noise-canceling system, making highway conversations easy and enjoyable.

The base “Pure” trim of the QX50 started at $36,550 and came well-equipped with features like LED headlights, a hands-free liftgate, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone auto climate controls, power front seats, and a forward-collision warning and mitigation system. The “Luxe” trim, priced at $39,400, added LED fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a blind-spot monitoring system. The top-tier “Essential” trim, at $43,350, included navigation, 3-zone climate controls, auto wipers, parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and leather seats. Additional packages like the $7,500 Sensory package and various safety and convenience options could push the price up to $55,285.

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, received some design tweaks, including the hourglass grille that had become a staple in the Lexus lineup. The GX wore this design better than some other Lexus models. Although the vehicle was a decade old, it shared a platform with the Toyota 4Runner, known for its rugged capability. This made the GX a capable SUV that didn’t need constant innovation to remain relevant.

Inside, the GX's cabin showed its age with a large, chunky center console and big buttons, reminiscent of early 2010s Lexus styling. However, this basic design worked well for a rugged SUV. The GX was available in three trims: the 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury. The base 460 trim included 10-way power front seats, leather upholstery, push-button start, automatic climate control, and a power sunroof. The Premium trim added features like rain-sensing windshield wipers, 3-zone automatic climate control, front and rear parking sensors, and LED fog lights. The Luxury trim, which included second-row captain’s chairs and power-folding third-row seats, also offered premium leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, self-leveling air suspension, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, the world’s first mass-produced variable-compression engine. This engine could change its compression ratio on the fly, varying between 8:1 and 14:1 for maximum power or efficiency. It produced 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a weak point, often struggling to manage the power effectively, especially at low speeds. The QX50’s EPA-estimated fuel economy was 24 city and 31 highway mpg, with a combined rating of 27 mpg. Real-world testing, however, showed an average of 24 mpg.

The QX50’s ride leaned more towards comfort than sportiness, handling corners and road imperfections well. However, the Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system, which lacked a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and tires, felt inconsistent and difficult to get used to. This system was only available with the ProACTIVE package, so it could be avoided.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4-wheel drive. While these numbers might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power in real-world driving. The GX’s steering, though initially feeling over-boosted, was direct and responsive on the road. The self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth yet composed ride, capable of handling potholes and bumps with ease.

The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its 4WD system and various chassis controls. It could handle deep snow, mud, and sand without issue. The GX also had a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds and a tight turning radius of 19 feet, making it surprisingly maneuverable for a large SUV. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. In real-world testing, it averaged 16.3 mpg.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50’s interior was a mix of high-quality materials and confusing controls. While the fit and finish were excellent, the abundance of screens and controls made the dashboard look cluttered. The infotainment system suffered from input delays, particularly in the navigation system, causing frustration. The shifter design, with a separate “PARK” button behind the shifter, was also a point of contention, potentially leading to safety concerns.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain’s chairs in the Premium and Luxury trims, with the latter also featuring power-folding third-row seats. These captain’s chairs provided easy access to the third row and a natural barrier between passengers. However, getting into the third row was challenging for adults. With all rear seats folded, the GX offered 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space, less than some competitors. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window/hatch was a useful feature.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 offered a range of advanced safety and technology features, but many were only available on the top-tier Essential trim. The $2,000 ProActive package included intelligent cruise control, blind-spot intervention, lane-departure warning and intervention, and ProPilot assist. However, the base QX50 was still well-equipped with technology, including a new infotainment system, though it had its frustrations.

The 2020 Lexus GX’s infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its simplicity, with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, was a welcome change from more complex modern systems. This older setup was easier to use, though it came at the cost of missing out on some modern connectivity features.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 had a range of advanced safety features, but many were only available on higher trims. The base trim lacked even a blind-spot monitoring system. Additionally, the QX50 had not been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and an available surround-view camera. The GX’s high driving position and large windows provided excellent visibility, enhancing safety.