2020 Lexus GX vs 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite some new design tweaks, retained much of its decade-old styling. The updated GX featured the hourglass grille design, which was more palatable on this model compared to others in the Lexus lineup. The vehicle's rugged capability, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, allowed it to remain relevant despite its age. Inside, the GX's cabin showcased a dated design with large buttons and a recessed infotainment screen, reminiscent of early 2010s Lexus styling. 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.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, closely resembled its gasoline counterpart in terms of dimensions and design. The hybrid model featured subtle exterior differences, such as blue-outlined Honda emblems and "Hybrid" badges. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid maintained the same dash and multi-function center console as the gasoline model, with a 7-inch infotainment screen and steering-wheel-mounted functions. The gear shifter was replaced with a push-button selector, and paddle shifters were repurposed to adjust brake regeneration. The hybrid's driving modes included Normal, EV, Econ, and Sport.

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. Despite its seemingly modest specs, the V8 provided a robust driving experience, with direct and responsive steering. The GX's self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth ride, and its off-road capabilities were impressive, thanks to various 4WD modes and Downhill Assist Control. The GX could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a two-motor hybrid system with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing a combined 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system eliminated the need for a conventional transmission, using four fixed-ratio gear sets and a lock-up clutch. The CR-V Hybrid's fuel economy was significantly better than the gasoline model, with an EPA rating of 40 mpg city, 35 highway, and 38 combined. During testing, the CR-V Hybrid achieved nearly 41 mpg in city driving. The hybrid's driving modes included Normal, EV, Econ, and Sport, with Sport mode offering the most engaging driving experience. However, the EV mode was limited to short distances and specific conditions.

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. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 64.7 cubic feet available with all rear seats folded. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous. However, the separately opening rear window/hatch was a convenient feature for quick access to the cargo area.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, while maintaining the same dimensions as the gasoline model, had reduced cargo capacity due to the battery pack. It offered 33.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 68.7 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. Despite this reduction, the CR-V Hybrid still provided more cargo space than the Ford Escape Hybrid. The CR-V Hybrid also featured a low cargo floor for easy loading and unloading, and it offered more passenger space than its competitors. The configurable center console bin added to its practicality, although the armrest's adjustability was somewhat problematic.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system was outdated, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its simplicity and true touchscreen interface, flanked by large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, were user-friendly compared to more modern Lexus systems.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid came standard with Bluetooth connectivity, Pandora compatibility, and a single USB connector. Higher trims added a 7-inch touchscreen display, smartphone integration, SiriusXM, HD radio, and additional USB ports. The top Touring trim included navigation, wireless device charging, and a premium audio system. However, the infotainment system's lack of haptic feedback and complicated menu navigation were drawbacks.

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. The GX's great visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, added to its safety.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. It came standard with Honda Sensing, which included automatic braking, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a multi-angle rearview camera. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available starting with the EX trim.