2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Buick Encore GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, retained a rugged charm. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned in 2010, the GX received some design tweaks over the years, including the hourglass grille that became a signature of the Lexus lineup. This grille, while controversial on other models, suited the GX well. The vehicle's decade-old design was evident, but its shared platform with the Toyota 4Runner meant it remained a capable and rugged SUV, prioritizing functionality over modern aesthetics.

Inside, the GX's cabin showed its age with a design that hadn't changed much in a decade. The large center console, big buttons, and recessed infotainment screen were reminiscent of early 2010s Lexus styling. While this might not appeal to those seeking the latest tech, it worked for a rugged SUV. The GX came in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery to advanced navigation systems. The Luxury trim even included a rear-seat entertainment system, though its relevance in the age of smartphones was questionable.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX, on the other hand, impressed with its styling. Unlike the original Encore, which was nicknamed "the shoe" for its awkward design, the Encore GX had a sleek and proportionate look. Available in Preferred, Select, and Essence trims, with an optional Sport Touring package, the Encore GX offered a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Two turbocharged three-cylinder engines were available: a 1.2-liter for FWD and a 1.3-liter for both FWD and AWD. Pricing ranged from $24,200 to $30,600, with our test model, an Essence trim with the 1.3-liter engine, coming in at $35,065.

Despite its high price, Buick offered significant discounts for current GM customers and attractive lease deals for non-GM owners. The Encore GX's cabin, while not as refined as its exterior, provided expected quality for a small SUV. However, the placement of analog gauges and the vibrating head-up display (HUD) detracted from its overall appeal. The Encore GX's interior design needed improvement to match its premium brand positioning.

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 figures might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 offered a unique driving experience with its powerful and smooth performance. The GX's light yet responsive steering and self-leveling air suspension provided a comfortable and composed ride, making it capable on both highways and off-road trails.

The GX's 4WD system and various chassis controls, including Downhill Assist Control and adjustable suspension modes, made it a formidable off-road vehicle. It 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 a drawback, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. During testing, it averaged 16.3 mpg.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The standard 1.2-liter engine produced 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, while the 1.3-liter engine delivered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. The larger engine, available with both FWD and AWD, provided adequate power for highway driving and everyday use. FWD models came with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The Encore GX's ride quality varied, feeling brittle on urban roads and bouncy over bumps. Despite Buick's QuietTuning efforts, the cabin wasn't particularly quiet. The Encore GX's handling was decent, with flat cornering and good brake performance, but it lacked the refinement expected from a premium brand. Fuel economy was a highlight, with an average of 28.2 mpg during testing, though it fell short of the official EPA estimate.

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. These captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row and a natural barrier between passengers. However, getting into the third row was challenging for adults. With all rear seats folded, the GX offered 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space, 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 2021 Buick Encore GX had supportive front seats with power adjustments and heating, but the rear seats were less comfortable, especially for taller passengers. The rear seat lacked thigh support and had an awkward recline angle. Interior storage was good, with 23.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expandable to 50.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The test vehicle's hands-free power liftgate was an unnecessary option, but the fold-flat front passenger seat was a thoughtful feature for carrying long items.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a simpler, button-heavy interface. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the true touchscreen and straightforward controls were user-friendly compared to modern Lexus systems.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX Essence featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity for two devices, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Advanced Technology Package added navigation, voice recognition, SiriusXM 360L, and a surround-view camera. Despite the added features, the test car lacked the optional Bose premium sound system. The infotainment system was responsive, with a user-friendly interface and convenient steering wheel controls.

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 2021 Buick Encore GX included Buick Driver Confidence as standard, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims, with adaptive cruise control available. Teen Driver technology and automatic collision notification were also included. The Encore GX earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not tested it.