2020 GMC Acadia vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 GMC Acadia was positioned as a premium brand, intended to be nicer than Chevys but not as luxurious as Cadillacs. Built on the same platform as the Cadillac XT5, the Acadia shared powertrains and assembly origins in Spring Hill, Tennessee. The 2020 model came in various trims, including the luxurious Denali, which featured all-wheel drive, Satin Steel Metallic paint, and a Technology Package, bringing the price to $52,385. The design changes were most noticeable in the front, with squared-off headlights and a boxier grille, while the cabin saw minor updates like new electronic transmission shift switches and real open-pore wood trim for Denali models. Despite these updates, the interior still had a mix of soft surfaces and hard plastic panels, with leather upholstery and wood trim being the primary indicators of its premium status.

The 2020 Lexus GX, introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, continued with some new design tweaks. The updated GX adopted the hourglass grille design seen across the Lexus lineup, which suited it better than the larger LX. Despite the new front end and headlights, the GX remained a decade-old vehicle, sharing a platform with the Toyota 4Runner. This rugged capability allowed the GX to remain relevant despite its age. The cabin retained its early 2010s styling, with a large, chunky center console and big buttons, which were operable while wearing work gloves. The GX was available in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of standard and optional features, including leather upholstery, navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered three engine options. Lower trims featured a 193-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The Acadia SLT came with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, providing 230 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque. The AT4 and Denali variants included a 310-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine, which was also available in other trims. All engines were paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, and the Acadia was available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), except for the AT4, which had a standard dual-clutch AWD system. The V6 engine and nine-speed automatic provided smooth, refined power and up to 4,000 pounds of towing capacity. The test vehicle averaged 20.1 mpg in combined driving, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg. The Acadia's ride and handling were finely tuned, offering a balanced driving experience, though it lacked memorable driving character.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4-wheel drive (4WD). While modern V6 and turbocharged engines could exceed these figures, the V8 offered a distinctive swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering was light but direct and responsive, providing a composed ride with its self-leveling air suspension. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with various 4WD modes, adjustable suspension height, and Downhill Assist Control. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 GMC Acadia could seat five, six, or seven passengers, depending on the trim and configuration. The Denali trim provided 6-passenger seating with standard second-row captain’s chairs, though a bench seat was available as a no-cost option. The front seats were wide, supportive, and 10-way power-adjustable, with heating and ventilation. The second-row captain’s chairs were also heated and comfortable, with air conditioning vents, USB ports, and a power outlet for rear passengers. The third-row seat was roomier than expected, though the cargo space behind it was limited to 12.1 cubic feet. Folding the third-row seat down increased cargo space to 41.7 cubic feet, and with the second-row seats folded, the maximum cargo volume was 79 cubic feet.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs in the Premium and Luxury trims, with power-folding third-row seats standard in the Luxury trim. The 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 GX had a side-opening rear hatch, which was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window/hatch was a useful feature.

The 2020 GMC Acadia included essential infotainment features like Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and GMC Connected Services with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The 8-inch touchscreen had a higher resolution, simplified user experience, and improved voice recognition. The test vehicle's navigation and Bose premium sound system performed well, though voice recognition sometimes required multiple attempts. The infotainment system was user-friendly, and additional technology upgrades included new USB-C ports, a more powerful wireless charging pad, a high-definition surround-view camera, and a rear camera mirror.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, with the last generation of Lexus Enform. It featured a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, offering simplicity over modern systems. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which was a significant tradeoff for some drivers.

The 2020 GMC Acadia came with standard safety features like a rear-seat reminder system and Teen Driver technology. Standard GMC Connected Services included automatic collision notification and SOS emergency calling, though the free trial period was short. The base Acadia SL and up had a standard blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning system. However, advanced safety features like forward collision warning and low-speed automatic emergency braking were only available in higher trims and as part of a Driver Alert Package. The NHTSA gave the Acadia 5-star ratings in most assessments and a 4-star rollover resistance rating, while the IIHS provided incomplete data.

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