2021 Buick Envision vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to impress with its rugged design and capability. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, the GX received some new design tweaks, including the hourglass grille that became a signature of the Lexus lineup. While this grille was polarizing on other models, it suited the GX well. The vehicle's decade-old design was evident, but its shared platform with the Toyota 4Runner ensured it remained a capable and rugged SUV, appealing to those who valued off-road prowess 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 was available in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery and power seats to advanced navigation and entertainment systems. CarGurus recommended the base 460 trim for its well-rounded features and value.

The 2021 Buick Envision underwent a significant redesign, giving it a more modern and premium appearance. Lower and wider than its predecessor, the Envision boasted a sculpted look that rivaled the Cadillac XT4 and Acura RDX. The new design included three trim levels: Preferred, Essence, and Avenir, with the Avenir trim offering the most luxurious features. The Avenir grade added unique exterior elements, premium wheels, and a high-end interior with leather-appointed seating and a head-up display.

Inside, the Envision's cabin featured a driver-centric design with a protruding center stack housing the infotainment screen and climate controls. While stylish, this design limited accessibility for the front passenger. The Envision's interior space was slightly reduced compared to the previous model, with less headroom, legroom, and cargo capacity. Despite these changes, the Envision remained comfortable and well-equipped, offering features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and advanced infotainment options.

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 figures might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's light yet responsive steering and self-leveling air suspension contributed to a smooth and composed ride, making it capable both on and off the road. The GX 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 less impressive, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2021 Buick Envision featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While this engine was less powerful than the previous model's, the Envision's weight reduction helped maintain its performance. The Envision offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. The new engine and weight savings improved fuel efficiency, with the FWD model achieving 24 mpg city, 31 highway, and 26 combined, while the AWD model achieved 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 25 combined. Despite the improvements, the Envision's engine and road noise detracted from its premium feel, and its driving dynamics were more comfortable than sporty.

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 easier access to the third row, getting adults into the third row was still a challenge. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 64.7 cubic feet available with all rear seats folded. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window was a useful feature.

The 2021 Buick Envision's redesign resulted in less interior space compared to its predecessor. The front row had reduced headroom, legroom, and shoulder room, while rear-seat passengers lost two inches of legroom and nearly six inches of hip room. Cargo capacity was also reduced, with 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 53.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite these reductions, the Envision's rear cargo space was adequate for daily use, with handy grocery bag holders and carve-outs for additional storage. The driver-centric cockpit limited front passenger access to controls, but small-item storage remained good.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, featuring a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the simplicity of the system was a welcome change from more complex modern interfaces.

The 2021 Buick Envision's tech highlight was its standard 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, which was responsive and displayed necessary functionalities clearly. The driver could easily see station and song information on the available 8.0-inch driver information display. Standard features included USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Available features included navigation, a surround-view camera, and wireless device charging.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available. The GX's great visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, added to its safety.

The 2021 Buick Envision had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included a following distance indicator, forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic park assist were available on the Avenir trim. The Envision also featured GM's Buckle to Drive, ensuring the driver was buckled before shifting from park to drive.