2019 Kia Sorento vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2019 Kia Sorento was an attractive SUV, featuring updated styling with revised front and rear bumpers, a new grille, and redesigned headlights and taillights. These changes were well-received, enhancing the vehicle's appeal without going overboard. The SX Limited trim, at the top of the lineup, offered premium features like Nappa leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof, though some interior materials felt less luxurious given the price. Despite this, the Sorento's interior was comfortable, with thoughtful touches like a fabric-covered headliner and metallic accents.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus GX retained its decade-old design, with a few modern tweaks like the hourglass grille. While the exterior updates were subtle, the GX's rugged capability was its standout feature, sharing a platform with the Toyota 4Runner. Inside, the cabin remained largely unchanged from the early 2010s, with a chunky center console and large buttons. This simplicity worked for the GX's off-road persona, though it lacked the modern flair of newer luxury SUVs. The GX offered three trims, with the Luxury trim providing premium features like a heated steering wheel and self-leveling air suspension.

The 2019 Kia Sorento offered a choice between a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 290-horsepower, 3.3-liter V6. The V6 provided smooth power and quick acceleration, paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could select from Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart driving modes, with the latter adapting to driving styles. Optional all-wheel drive included Torque Vectoring Cornering Control for improved handling. During testing, the Sorento returned 20.7 mpg, close to its EPA rating. The SUV's handling was surprisingly athletic, with a solid and quiet ride on the highway.

The 2020 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This engine delivered a distinctive swell of power, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4-wheel drive. The GX's steering was light yet direct, and the self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with various 4WD modes and Downhill Assist Control. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius, making it versatile for city driving. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 16.3 mpg.

The 2019 Kia Sorento was a 3-row, 7-passenger SUV, though the third row was best for emergency use due to limited access and support. As a 5-passenger SUV, it offered 38 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 73 cubic feet with the second row folded. The Sorento's interior featured premium options like Nappa leather and a panoramic sunroof, though rear-seat comfort was less impressive due to tight legroom. The SUV included rear air-conditioning vents and power sources for passengers.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs and power-folding third-row seats in higher trims. While the third row was challenging for adults to access, the captain's chairs provided a practical solution for families. With all seats folded, the GX offered 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space, less than some competitors. The GX featured a side-opening rear hatch and a separately opening rear window, adding convenience for accessing the cargo area.

The 2019 Kia Sorento featured three infotainment systems, with the top UVO eServices system offering an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging tray in higher trims. A 360-degree camera system was available, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it featured a true touchscreen with large buttons for easy navigation. While the system was simpler than modern setups, it provided essential functions without the complexity of newer interfaces.

The 2019 Kia Sorento was equipped with a range of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. New for 2019, lane-keeping assist and driver-attention monitoring were standard on higher trims. The Sorento received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available. The GX offered excellent visibility, with large windows and mirrors enhancing safety.