2020 Lexus GX vs 2020 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to sport the bold hourglass grille design that had become a hallmark of the Lexus lineup. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, the GX's second generation persisted into 2020 with minor design tweaks. The updated front end and headlights gave it a refreshed look, but the vehicle's decade-old roots were still evident. The GX's rugged capability, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, allowed it to remain relevant despite its dated design, appealing to those who valued off-road prowess over modern aesthetics.

Inside, the GX's cabin retained its early 2010s styling, featuring a large, chunky center console with big buttons and a recessed infotainment screen. While this interior might seem outdated for a luxury SUV, it suited the GX's rugged character. The base 460 trim came well-equipped with features like 10-way power front seats, leather upholstery, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims added more luxury and tech features, but CarGurus recommended the base trim for its value and comprehensive standard equipment.

The 2020 Honda CR-V, in its fifth generation since 2017, maintained a familiar and fun design. Its curvy, car-like lines and resemblance to Honda's sedan lineup made it a modern family vehicle. However, the interior was a mix of high-quality materials and low-grade plastics, reminding drivers that even the pricier CR-V models were upgrades of a commodity car rather than true luxury vehicles. The base CR-V started at an MSRP of $26,270, with four trim levels available, each offering a straightforward set of features.

The CR-V's interior was spacious and well-packaged, with excellent head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Clever storage solutions, like the deep center console and two-position load floor, added to its practicality. The cargo space was generous, with 75.8 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. Despite its compact size, the CR-V managed to offer ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a versatile choice for families.

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 yet direct steering and self-leveling air suspension contributed to a smooth and composed ride, making it capable both on and off the road. The GX could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet, making it surprisingly maneuverable for a large SUV. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2020 Honda CR-V featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque, mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). This powertrain provided a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, with the CR-V feeling quick and responsive, especially in Sport mode. The CR-V's car-like handling, firm yet comfortable chassis, and low curb weight of 3,337 pounds contributed to its nimble road manners. The FWD CR-V achieved an EPA rating of 30 mpg combined, while the AWD version managed 29 mpg, making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with the latter also featuring power-folding third-row seats. While the captain's chairs provided easier access to the third row and a natural barrier between passengers, getting into the third row was still a challenge for adults. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with all rear seats folded. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window/hatch was a convenient feature.

The 2020 Honda CR-V excelled in interior space and practicality. Its cabin was roomy, with excellent head- and legroom for all passengers. The center console offered a deep storage well with a sliding cover, inspired by the Honda Odyssey minivan. The rear featured a two-position load floor, allowing for either maximum cargo space or a flat floor with the rear seats folded, providing 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The CR-V's door pockets were also spacious, adding to its overall practicality and ease of use.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, featuring a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the simplicity of the system was a welcome change from more complex modern setups. The GX's decade-old layout was straightforward and user-friendly, though it missed out on some of the latest tech features.

The 2020 Honda CR-V's infotainment system was also dated, with the base LX trim featuring a small 5-inch screen with limited functionality. Higher trims offered a 7-inch touchscreen, but it still felt small compared to competitors. The system lacked hard buttons, making it challenging to operate, and even Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration felt tacked on. However, the CR-V did offer plenty of USB ports in the EX trim and above, with two in the front and two high-powered ports in the backseat. The Touring trim added a wireless phone charger for 2020.

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 was also standard, and the available surround-view camera added an extra layer of safety. The GX's high driving position and large windows provided excellent visibility, enhancing overall safety.

The 2020 Honda CR-V included the Honda Sensing system as standard, offering forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, road-departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist. Automatic high beams were also standard, while EX trims and above added blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic monitoring. The CR-V earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), with the Touring trim's LED headlights improving nighttime visibility.