2020 Dodge Durango vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to sport the distinctive hourglass grille design that had become a hallmark of the Lexus lineup. This design update, while controversial on some models, seemed to fit the GX better than its larger sibling, the LX. The GX's exterior updates included new front-end and headlights, but the vehicle's decade-old roots were still evident. Sharing a platform with the rugged Toyota 4Runner, the GX maintained its off-road capability, which compensated for its lack of modern innovation.

Inside, the GX's cabin remained largely unchanged from a decade ago, featuring a chunky center console with large buttons and a recessed infotainment screen. This old-school design, while outdated for a luxury SUV, worked well for the GX's rugged persona. The GX was available in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery and power sunroof to advanced navigation and rear-seat entertainment systems. CarGurus recommended the base 460 trim for its well-rounded standard features.

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. While these figures might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's light steering, though initially feeling over-boosted, proved to be direct and responsive on the road. The self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth yet composed ride, capable of handling potholes and corners with ease.

The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its robust 4WD system and various chassis controls, including Downhill Assist Control and adjustable suspension modes. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet, making it surprisingly maneuverable in urban settings. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. In a week of mixed driving, the observed average was 16.3 mpg.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines across its trims. The SXT, GT, and Citadel came with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, also available on the Citadel. The top-tier SRT trim boasted a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, delivering 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available.

The V6 provided decent power for family hauling, while the 5.7-liter V8 in the R/T offered confident acceleration. The SRT's 392 cubic inch V8 delivered strong low-end power and impressive high-speed performance, enhanced by paddle shifters and a performance-tuned suspension. The SRT also featured Brembo performance brakes and Dodge's SRT performance pages, allowing for detailed drive mode customization and performance tracking. The SRT's car-like handling and minimal body roll were surprising for a vehicle of its size.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with power-folding third-row seats standard on the Luxury trim. These captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row and a natural barrier between passengers. However, accessing the third row was challenging for adults. With all rear seats folded, the GX provided 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 was a useful feature.

The 2020 Dodge Durango provided 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. This was competitive with other three-row SUVs. The Durango's cabin offered ample space for occupants, with comfortable front seats and a choice of a three-passenger bench or second-row captain's chairs. The third row was best suited for children. The driver and front passenger had access to multiple storage bins and cupholders, while the second row in the SRT trim featured its own center console.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a last-generation Lexus Enform setup. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it featured a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, offering a simpler user interface compared to newer Lexus models.

The 2020 Dodge Durango's SXT and GT trims came with a 7-inch touchscreen, while an 8.4-inch touchscreen was optional on the GT and standard on higher trims. The Uconnect infotainment system was praised for its straightforward menu layout and tablet-inspired design, with dock icons for easy navigation. The Durango came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and higher trims offered navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and premium audio systems.

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's high driving position and large windows provided excellent visibility, enhancing overall safety.

The 2020 Dodge Durango included front- and side-impact airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and trailer sway control. Rear parking sensors were available on the SXT and standard on higher trims. Optional driver-assistance features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-path detection. The Durango earned a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating in most IIHS crash tests, with Superior crash-prevention technology available as an option.