2020 Honda Pilot vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite some design tweaks, retained much of its decade-old styling. The updated model featured the hourglass grille design, which was more palatable on the GX than on other Lexus models. The vehicle's rugged capability, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, made it a standout in the luxury SUV segment, even if its interior felt dated with large buttons and a recessed infotainment screen. 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 Honda Pilot showcased modern styling with thin LED headlights and a multi-tiered grille. Its cabin was spacious and comfortable, featuring a semi-digital instrument panel and a mix of hard plastics and refined materials. The Pilot was available in six trims: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition, each adding more features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, leather upholstery, and advanced safety systems. The Pilot's design aimed to balance practicality with a touch of sophistication, making it a strong contender in the three-row SUV market.

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 age, the V8 provided a robust driving experience, with direct and responsive steering. The self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth ride, and the GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its 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 less impressive, with estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2020 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission on lower trims and a 9-speed automatic on higher trims. The Pilot's V6 provided strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, though it lacked athleticism. The Intelligent Traction Management System offered drive modes for various conditions, enhancing its capability. The Pilot's ride was tuned for comfort, making it ideal for commutes and road trips. The 9-speed transmission improved fuel economy and provided refined acceleration.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on Premium and Luxury trims, with power-folding third-row seats standard on the Luxury trim. The GX's cargo space was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, 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 Honda Pilot provided a spacious 8-passenger cabin with second-row bench seating, while higher trims featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing seating capacity to seven. The Pilot's third row was adult-friendly, and EX trims and higher offered one-touch fold-down rear seats for easier access. With the second and third rows folded, the Pilot provided 83.9 cubic feet of cargo space, comparable to its rivals. Higher trims included a power liftgate and hands-free power tailgate, enhancing convenience.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its true touchscreen interface with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls was simpler to use than modern Lexus systems. The older Lexus Enform system was straightforward but missed out on some modern connectivity features.

The 2020 Honda Pilot's base LX trim featured a 5-inch color LCD screen, while higher trims included an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Display Audio system had a confusing layout, lacking a tuning knob and relying heavily on touchscreen interaction. Higher trims offered additional features like HD Radio, SiriusXM, navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Touring, Elite, and Black Edition trims included a premium audio system and mobile hotspot capability.

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 safety.

The 2020 Honda Pilot featured the HondaSensing suite of driver assistance systems, including forward-collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Standard safety equipment included front and side-impact airbags, child-seat anchors, Vehicle Stability Assist, and traction control. Optional features included parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring. The Pilot earned a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and the best crash test score of Good from the IIHS.