2020 Lexus GX vs 2020 Ford Expedition

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to hold its own with a design that had evolved since its introduction in 2002 and a major redesign in 2010. By 2020, it had adopted the bold hourglass grille that characterized the Lexus lineup, which surprisingly suited the GX better than some of its larger siblings. While the exterior received updates, the interior remained largely unchanged from a decade ago, featuring a chunky center console and large buttons that harkened back to early 2010s styling. This retro approach worked for the GX, emphasizing its rugged capability over modern luxury innovations. The GX was available in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery to advanced navigation systems.

In contrast, the 2020 Ford Expedition, last redesigned in 2018, presented a clean and somewhat understated exterior design that aged gracefully. The King Ranch edition stood out with its 22-inch aluminum wheels and exclusive trim details. Inside, the Expedition offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, especially in the King Ranch trim, which featured luxurious Del Rio leather and ample storage options. Despite some hard plastics in lower trims, the Expedition's interior was generally well-received, particularly for its comfortable third-row seating, a rarity in full-size SUVs. The Expedition's design choices, including its independent rear suspension, contributed to a more spacious and comfortable ride for passengers.

The 2020 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission to a standard 4-wheel drive system. While these figures might not have been groundbreaking, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power in real-world driving scenarios. The GX's steering, though initially light, proved to be direct and responsive, and the self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its robust 4WD system and various chassis controls, making it a capable vehicle for adventurous drivers. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 16.3 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Ford Expedition, on the other hand, featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided ample power and a pleasant exhaust note. The Expedition's towing capacity was impressive, with the ability to tow up to 9,300 pounds with rear-wheel drive. The adaptive damping suspension, standard on the King Ranch, contributed to a comfortable ride, although the large wheels sometimes resulted in a busy ride on rough surfaces. The Expedition's independent rear suspension improved ride quality and interior space, making it a strong contender in the full-size SUV segment. Fuel economy was slightly better than the GX, with an observed average of 17.7 mpg.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs and power-folding third-row seats in its higher trims, providing some flexibility for families. However, accessing the third row could be challenging for adults, and the cargo space was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The GX's side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window was a convenient feature.

In contrast, the 2020 Ford Expedition excelled in interior space and comfort. The King Ranch trim featured power running boards for easy access, and the heated and ventilated front seats added to the luxury feel. The Expedition's third-row seating was genuinely comfortable for adults, thanks to the independent rear suspension. Cargo space was generous, with up to 104.6 cubic feet available in the standard-length model and 121.5 cubic feet in the MAX version, making it a practical choice for families and those needing ample storage.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its simplicity and true touchscreen interface were appreciated by those who preferred straightforward controls over complex systems.

The 2020 Ford Expedition, while equipped with the older Sync 3 system, offered a more modern infotainment experience with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The system was user-friendly, though it occasionally required patience. Additional tech features included FordPass Connect with a WiFi hotspot, a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, enhancing the Expedition's appeal for tech-savvy drivers.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available, contributing to the GX's safety credentials. The vehicle's high driving position and large windows provided excellent visibility, further enhancing safety.

The 2020 Ford Expedition featured Ford Co-Pilot360 as standard, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. These included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Expedition's size and weight contributed to its crash safety, earning it high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The ADAS systems were effective and unobtrusive, providing peace of mind for drivers.