2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Audi Q5

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 it wore better than some of its larger counterparts. Despite the new front end and headlights, the GX retained a decade-old look, especially in the cabin, which featured a large, chunky center console with big buttons and a recessed infotainment screen. This interior design, while outdated, worked for the rugged nature of the GX, which shared a platform with the Toyota 4Runner, known for its off-road capabilities.

In contrast, the 2021 Audi Q5 presented a sharp, modern appearance. The Q5 carried the Audi design language well, with an expressive face featuring LED headlights and a big Singleframe grille. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear boasted bold, large taillights. Inside, the Q5 was classy and modern, packed with technology yet maintaining an uncluttered appearance. The 10.1-inch touchscreen floated at the top of the center stack, and the material selection was high-quality, with real wood and metal accents. The second row was also nicely appointed, with standard leather seating surfaces throughout.

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 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 featured light yet direct steering and a self-leveling air suspension that provided a smooth, composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with various 4WD modes and a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV took the already fun-to-drive Q5 and enhanced it with a plug-in hybrid system. The PHEV combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 362 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the Q5 PHEV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds and achieve impressive fuel economy figures of 65 MPGe combined. The Q5 PHEV could be recharged overnight with household current or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro all-wheel drive and offered various driving modes to optimize battery usage and fuel consumption.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with the Luxury trim also featuring power-folding third-row seats. While the captain's chairs provided a small access way to the third row, getting into the third row was challenging 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 for easier access to the cargo area.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV managed to carry its battery pack under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It offered 25.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row and up to 53.1 cubic feet with the second row folded. The second row provided reasonable legroom (37.8 inches) and plenty of headroom (37.7 inches) and shoulder room (56.5 inches). The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with a wide range of adjustments, heating, and ventilation on the Prestige trim. The Q5's interior was well-designed, with smartly laid-out controls and ample storage options.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, featuring the last generation of Lexus Enform. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it was a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, offering a simpler user interface compared to newer Lexus models.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was easy to use and master. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster offered customizable views and elevated the cabin's tech feel. The Q5 also included a built-in Integrated Toll Module, a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system, and wireless Apple CarPlay, enhancing the overall tech experience.

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

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time, but the gasoline-only Q5 received top ratings. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, Audi Pre Sense basic, low-speed collision assist, and more. Available driver-assistance features included adaptive cruise control, park steering assist, and a top-view camera system.