2021 Audi Q3 vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX had a design that was starting to show its age. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, the second generation continued into 2020 with some new design tweaks. The updated GX adopted the hourglass grille design seen across the Lexus lineup, which looked better on the GX than on some other models. Despite the new front end and headlights, the GX retained a decade-old design, sharing a platform with the Toyota 4Runner, which emphasized rugged capability over innovation.

Inside, the GX's age was even more apparent. The cabin featured a large, chunky center console with big buttons and a recessed infotainment screen, reminiscent of early 2010s Lexus styling. While this interior might not suit a new Lexus RX, it worked for the GX's rugged character. The GX was available in three trims: the 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery and a power sunroof to heated and ventilated seats and a rear-seat entertainment system. CarGurus recommended the base 460 trim for its extensive standard features and value.

The 2021 Audi Q3, on the other hand, embraced a modern, postmodern automotive styling. The massive Audi corporate grille paired well with the Q3's stout, chunky design, presenting an idea of utility and dynamic handling. The cabin echoed this mechanical, modern aesthetic, with a dash design that framed the center touchscreen. When the interior debuted with the redesigned Q3 in 2019, it was a standout design, though newer Volkswagen interiors had started to catch up. The Q3's cabin still felt modern and refined, even if it wasn't as special as it once was.

The Q3 was available in two trims: Premium and Premium Plus. The Premium trim included leather upholstery, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Premium Plus trim added features like remote start, wireless device charging, and a hands-free power liftgate. The previously range-topping Prestige trim was gone, but its features were available as options and packages.

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 (4WD). While these specs might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 offered a distinctive swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's light steering felt over-boosted at first but proved to be direct and responsive on the road. The self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth yet composed ride, capable of handling potholes and corners with ease.

The GX excelled in off-road capability, with various 4WD modes, adjustable suspension height, and Downhill Assist Control. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet, making it a sensible city vehicle for those needing a larger luxury SUV. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. In a week of combined driving, an average of 16.3 mpg was observed.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD). The S-Line trim offered a more potent version of the same engine, with 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The base MSRP was $2,000 lower, with the more powerful engine available as a $2,000 option. The S-Line engine provided a lively performance with solid power for passing, especially in Sport mode, which quickened throttle response and altered transmission mapping.

The base engine had some turbo lag, most notable under hard acceleration or when making a passing move on the highway. The Q3's handling was nimble and blended well with a comfortable ride, offering a best-of-both-worlds dynamic that was engaging and enjoyable without detracting from ride quality.

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 captain's chairs provided a small access way to the third row and a natural barrier between kids. However, getting into the third row was a chore for adults. With all rear seats folded, the GX offered 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which was less than some competitors. The GX had a unique side-opening rear hatch and a separately opening rear window/hatch, allowing access to the cargo area without swinging open the massive hatch.

The 2021 Audi Q3 provided 48 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the space behind the seats was decent for a subcompact luxury SUV, the total cargo space was subpar for the class. However, the Q3 made up for it with impressive passenger space. The front seats were comfortable with plenty of deep cargo pockets, and the rear seats offered ample headroom and legroom. Four passengers could comfortably take a road trip, provided they packed light.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a last-generation Lexus Enform setup. It featured a true touchscreen flanked by large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, offering simplicity over modern complexity. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which might be a tough tradeoff for some drivers.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Audi's MMI system, which had logical, ergonomic menu navigation and standard Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. The upgraded system featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation. Other available features included wireless device charging, satellite radio, and a Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker premium audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit replaced the conventional instrument cluster with a customizable digital display.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and an available surround-view camera. The GX's great visibility, with massive windows and mirrors, added to its safety.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Lane-departure warning was also standard. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, a 360-degree camera system, front-and-rear parking sensors, and self-parking assist.