2020 Lexus GX vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite receiving some recent design adjustments, essentially carried the legacy of its 2010 predecessor. This decade-old model sported the aggressive hourglass grille that had become a hallmark of the Lexus lineup. While this grille might have been overwhelming on other Lexus models, it seemed to suit the GX much better, particularly when compared to the larger Lexus LX. The vehicle continued to share its rugged platform with the Toyota 4Runner, ensuring its capability in off-road conditions.

Inside the cabin, the GX’s age became immediately apparent with its outdated design. The chunky center console featured large buttons and a recessed infotainment screen, typical of early 2010s Lexus styling. Despite this, the straightforward layout, with operable dials and knobs even while wearing work gloves, seemed fitting for a rugged SUV like the GX. The GX was available in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a host of comfort and convenience features. The base 460 trim was well-equipped with power front seats, leather upholstery, and an 8-inch touchscreen, making it quite difficult to dismiss as merely an entry-level option. The Premium and Luxury trims added features like navigation, heated and ventilated seats, premium materials, and an optional rear-seat entertainment system, maintaining the GX’s high-end appeal.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender resurrected the beloved boxy design reminiscent of the LR4. With its squared-off edges, higher rear roofline, and iconic round headlights, the Defender captured the nostalgic essence of Land Rover styling, unlike the smoother contours of the current Discovery. It was a classic, purposeful vehicle akin to a Burberry trench coat. Attention to detail was where the Defender shined, showcasing quirky features like step plates, a foldable ladder, and alpine lights.

The vehicle's tail design included stacked taillights and an external spare tire, enhancing its rugged look. The Defender also offered a range of customizable options, from black fender flares to vinyl graphics. Inside, it embraced a minimalist industrial theme. The slab-sided cabin and exposed screws emphasized durability over luxury. Standard cloth seats, with optional leather and storable jump seats, provided various configurations for seating up to seven passengers in the four-door 110 model. The interior, though practical and rugged, didn’t match the luxurious feel expected at its price point.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was driven by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by a 6-speed automatic transmission paired with standard 4-wheel drive. While these figures might not impress in the modern era of powerful V6s and turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, the V8 provided an irreplaceable swell of power, crucial during real-world driving. The GX's steering, initially light, proved responsive and direct once on the road, providing a confident driving experience.

Our test model featured the self-leveling air suspension, delivering a smooth yet controlled ride. The GX's off-road capabilities were exceptional, aided by the 4WD system and various terrain response features, making it capable of traversing challenging landscapes effortlessly. Its towing capacity of 6,500 pounds and a surprisingly tight turning radius also made it a practical choice for urban settings. However, its fuel efficiency was a drawback, averaging 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender offered a compelling driving experience. With its optional 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, it delivered 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. This mild-hybrid powertrain utilized an electric motor to eliminate turbo lag and ensure consistent power delivery. The eight-speed automatic transmission's sport mode made the Defender launch aggressively, while standard air springs provided an exceptionally cushioned ride.

The Defender's off-road capabilities were unparalleled, utilizing Terrain Response 2 and adjustable-height suspension to tackle extreme conditions effortlessly. It demonstrated impressive handling on rugged trails, with inch-by-inch traction recovery in challenging terrains. The Defender’s on-road performance was notable as well, although it required significant steering corrections and exhibited evident body lean. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 296 horsepower was available on lower trims, providing a more efficient option. Despite its heft, the Defender effectively bridged the gap between off-road prowess and on-road comfort.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered practical interior options, especially for families. The second-row captain’s chairs on Premium and Luxury trims facilitated easier access to the power-folding third-row seats, although accessing the third row could still be cumbersome for adults. With third-row seats folded, the GX provided 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space, trailing behind competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Land Rover Discovery. The side-opening rear hatch was a unique feature, though not necessarily advantageous, except for the separately opening rear window, which was convenient for loading items.

The Defender’s design was fundamentally geared towards durability and utility. The 110 model, optional with a third row, could accommodate up to seven passengers, while the 90 model introduced in 2021 offered unique configurations including a jump seat. Cargo space varied across models: 16 cubic feet in the 90, expanding to 58 with rear seats folded, and 34 cubic feet in the 110, expanding to 79. Models with all rows folded retained 69 cubic feet. Rear air conditioning and heated seats were optional, and the generous headroom and legroom enhanced passenger comfort. The Defender’s towing capacity of 8,200 pounds further underscored its robust design.

The GX’s technology showcased its age through its older infotainment system. While outdated, the touchscreen interface was user-friendly, eschewing the complex Lexus Remote Touch cursor system. However, this simplicity came at the cost of modern conveniences like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite its shortcomings, some drivers may have appreciated its straightforward functionality compared to newer, more complicated systems.

The Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment system—a significant improvement over Jaguar Land Rover’s previous efforts. Equipped with two SIM cards for continuous data streaming and over-the-air updates, it was designed for reliability. The interface boasted a clean, muted design, though minor usability issues persisted. The off-road-oriented camera system, analog and digital gauge options, and inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto contributed to a well-rounded technology suite. Optional features like a head-up display and wireless charging supplemented its tech-forward approach.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Additionally, blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera enhanced its safety profile. Excellent visibility from high seating and expansive windows further contributed to a safe driving experience, even without crash-test ratings from major agencies.

The Defender incorporated several standard safety features like forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and 360-degree cameras. While knee airbags and rear side airbags were absent, the vehicle offered essential safety technologies. Optional safety features included rear cross-traffic alerts and exit alerts. However, due to limited volume and high price, the Defender lacked crash-test ratings.