2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to hold its own with a design that had evolved since its introduction in 2002 and a major redesign in 2010. By 2020, it had adopted the bold hourglass grille that characterized the Lexus lineup, which surprisingly suited the GX better than some of its larger counterparts. While the exterior received updates, the interior remained a testament to its decade-old roots, featuring a chunky center console and large buttons that harkened back to early 2010s styling. The GX's rugged capability, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, allowed it to maintain relevance despite its age, offering a robust platform for those who valued off-road prowess over modern luxury.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered a more contemporary take on SUV design, with a focus on styling details to differentiate its trim levels. The Traverse's exterior was a clean and handsome design, though it lacked the personality of some competitors. Inside, the Traverse provided a spacious cabin with above-average headroom and legroom across all three rows. The interior's restrained styling was complemented by an optional Dual SkyScape sunroof, enhancing the cabin's ambiance. While the materials in the RS trim were decent, they didn't quite justify the vehicle's price tag, a common issue among midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2020 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission to a standard 4WD system. While these figures might not have been groundbreaking, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering, though initially light, proved to be direct and responsive, and the self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth yet composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with a robust 4WD system and a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 16.3 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the V6 didn't feel particularly strong off the line, it provided ample power for highway merging and overtaking. The Traverse's highway manners were commendable, with a quiet cabin and a comfortable ride. However, its handling on twistier roads was less agile, partly due to its AWD system, which required manual activation and didn't fully utilize its torque vectoring capabilities. The Traverse offered off-road and tow/haul drive modes, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

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. While the captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row, the overall cargo space was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The GX's side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window was a convenient feature.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse provided seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom in all three rows. Cargo space was a significant advantage, with 23.0 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The Traverse offered a power liftgate and a gesture-activated liftgate on higher trims, along with a power 60/40 split-folding third row. However, interior storage options were limited compared to minivans, which offered more practicality for families.

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 appreciated by some drivers.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Bluetooth, with an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Bose audio system available on higher trims. The Traverse's infotainment system was user-friendly, with large icons and analog controls for audio and climate. The Traverse also offered a rearview camera mirror and an HD surround-view camera system, enhancing visibility and maneuverability.

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, and the GX's excellent visibility added to its safety credentials.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though its headlight ratings varied by trim. The Traverse offered less standard driver-assist tech than competitors, with features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking available only on higher trims.