2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX had a design that might have seemed outdated to some, yet possessed a rugged charm. Initially introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, this second-generation SUV soldiered on into 2020 with minor tweaks. The latest iteration of the GX incorporated Lexus's hourglass grille design, which had been integrated into the entire Lexus lineup. This controversial grille, however, didn't overwhelm the GX as much as it did other Lexus models. While the GX had a refreshed front end and modern headlights, its interior retained a decade-old design with a large center console, big buttons, and a recessed infotainment screen.

Trim-wise, the GX 460 came in three variations: base 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury. The base 460 model boasted a range of standard features like 10-way power front seats, leather upholstery, push-button start, automatic climate control, a power sunroof, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Premium trim added rain-sensing windshield wipers, three-zone automatic climate control, front and rear parking sensors, and LED fog lights. At the top, the Luxury trim included premium leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, self-leveling air suspension, and power-folding third-row seats, with options for rear-seat entertainment systems.

The 2020 Acura MDX, on the other hand, was a consistently stylish crossover SUV. While its design did not stand out dramatically in a crowd, it was both modern and practical. Acura was a forerunner in incorporating LED headlights, and its Jewel Eye design with five LED elements added a touch of luxury and functionality. The front of the MDX featured a trapezoidal grille with a pronounced Acura logo.

Inside, the MDX followed a simplified, modern aesthetic. It offered a center stack with twin infotainment screens—an 8.0-inch LED navigation screen above an On Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD) touchscreen, complemented by various buttons and a command wheel. The MDX's high-quality materials and solid build lent a premium feel to the cabin.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 housed a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. While these figures might have seemed modest compared to modern V6s or turbocharged engines, the V8's power delivery was unmistakable during real-world driving. The GX offered various driving aids like self-leveling air suspension and control toggles for different 4WD modes. With its off-road capability and robust build, the GX was equally at home on harsh trails as it was on urban roads. Capable of towing up to 6,500 pounds, it managed a turning radius of 19 feet. However, fuel economy was a weak point, with ratings of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2020 Acura MDX could be outfitted with either a 3.5-liter V6 engine giving 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque or a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine combined with three electric motors producing 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque for the Sport Hybrid variant. A nine-speed automatic transmission paired with either FWD or AWD was standard on the gasoline model, while the hybrid used a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and AWD. The SH-AWD system made the MDX adept at torque vectoring, improving handling during cornering maneuvers. It provided a composed, nimble driving experience with good acceleration and a comfortable ride.

The Lexus GX offered optional second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with the Luxury trim featuring power-folding third-row seats. However, the cabin layout was less accommodating for families, particularly when accessing the third row. The GX’s cargo capacity with all seats folded measured 64.7 cubic feet, which paled in comparison to competitors. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly beneficial for convenience.

Conversely, the Acura MDX was better optimized for family use. Its sliding and reclining second-row seats improved access to the third row and distributed legroom more dynamically. Cargo capacity was more impressive, with 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and maxing out at 90.9 cubic feet with both second and third rows down. The MDX had various storage solutions, tri-zone climate control, and numerous passenger amenities, making it a practical and functional choice for families.

The technology in the 2020 Lexus GX revealed its age. The infotainment system featured a basic touchscreen, the last generation of Lexus Enform, without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility. Large physical buttons flanked the screen, emphasizing a simpler, less frustrating user interface compared to newer systems, but this simplicity came at the cost of modern connectivity features.

Acura took a different approach with the MDX, offering multiple tech packages packed with features. The base model included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, hands-free Bluetooth, and SiriusXM, among others. Upgrading to the Technology Package added features like navigation, Acura Real-Time Traffic, and a premium audio system. The Advance Package further enhanced the tech offerings with a surround-view camera system, heated and ventilated seats, and more. For family entertainment, an available Entertainment Package could add a rear DVD system with up to a 16.2-inch screen, depending on other packages.

Lexus equipped the 2020 GX with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also came standard with blind-spot monitoring and had an available surround-view camera, ensuring a comprehensive suite of safety features. The GX's design provided excellent visibility thanks to high seating and large windows.

Acura's MDX came standard with AcuraWatch, a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies that included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The available Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package included Head-Up Warning. The MDX impressed with its safety ratings, earning top marks from both the IIHS and NHTSA, underscoring its safety credentials.