2020 Lexus RX vs 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid marked a return to a more rugged design reminiscent of Toyota's classic trucks. The front end featured a bold, trapezoidal grille and flexing surfaces, while the hood had a milder angle compared to previous models. The fenders and wheel wells had hard creases, and the side glass was large, echoing the original RAV4's design. The XSE trim, exclusive to the Hybrid, boasted glossy black trim on the roof, A-pillars, mirrors, fender flares, and 18-inch wheels, giving it a sporty and upscale appearance. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid featured high-quality materials, including padded dash and door trim with blue stitching, silver trim around the center stack, and comfortable front seats with blue-striped cloth inserts.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus RX received a refresh that included significant upgrades both inside and out. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to resemble other Lexus models, and new paint colors were introduced. The rear end was updated with a new shape, dual exhaust, and a hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX offered a variety of interior colors and materials, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added unique features like a special steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels, enhancing the SUV's sporty appeal. The cabin was well-appointed with leather-wrapped surfaces and a focus on durability for family use.

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a 1.6-kilowatt battery, producing 219 horsepower. Despite using older nickel-metal hydride batteries, the RAV4 Hybrid delivered consistent performance, especially in cold weather. The hybrid system provided seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power, making it quiet and efficient. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) ensured smooth acceleration, although the all-wheel drive (AWD) system could be slow to counter wheelspin. The RAV4 Hybrid's handling was stable and responsive, with sport-tuned dampers and springs in the XSE trim. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with an EPA rating of 41 mpg city, 38 highway, and 40 combined.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The RX 350L variant had slightly lower power output. The RX 450h hybrid model combined the V6 engine with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450hL had a similar setup but with reduced power from the gasoline engine. The hybrid models featured an electronically-controlled CVT and all-wheel drive. The RX's performance was smooth and refined, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds for most models. Fuel economy for the RX 350 was 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h achieved 30 mpg combined. The F Sport package added adaptive variable suspension and other performance enhancements.

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered excellent visibility and generous cargo space, with 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 70 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second-row legroom was ample, and the air conditioning was highly effective. The interior featured large, easy-to-use knobs and switches, although some controls were not illuminated at night. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear menus and customizable shortcuts.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was spacious and comfortable for four adults in the two-row model, but the third row in the RX-L was best suited for small children. The front seats provided good visibility and comfort, although the A-pillar could obstruct the view of curbs and corners. The cargo area was smaller than some competitors, with a high load floor that limited space. The RX 350L and 450hL had even less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on the RX 350 and 450h models and standard on the RX-L versions.

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid's infotainment system was more user-friendly than Lexus models, featuring a touchscreen with clear menus and customizable shortcuts. However, the maps looked dated, and the Entune 3.0 system required a smartphone connection for apps. Apple CarPlay was standard, but Android Auto was not. The JBL stereo was adequate, and the lane-keep assist was not designed for semi-automated operation. Toyota Safety Sense included features like forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was improved with a touchscreen moved closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was still difficult to navigate, but Apple CarPlay and other integrations like Amazon Alexa and Android Auto helped mitigate issues. The RX also featured six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The center console touchpad was more responsive, and a CD player was included.

The 2019 RAV4 Hybrid earned a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high scores in most crash tests. The IIHS rated it "Good" in all six crash tests and "Superior" for its collision-avoidance system. Toyota Safety Sense included features like forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Unique safety features included an airbag in the front passenger seat cushion and a driver's knee airbag.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. New for 2020 were features like daytime bicyclist detection and low-light pedestrian detection. The RX also included a three-year subscription to Lexus Enform Safety Connect and a 10-year subscription to Enform Service Connect. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.