2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Honda Pilot

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 GX received some new design tweaks over the years, including the hourglass grille that became a signature of the Lexus lineup. While this grille was polarizing on some models, it fit the GX better than the larger LX. Despite the updated front end and headlights, the GX retained a decade-old design, which was both a strength and a weakness. Sharing a platform with the Toyota 4Runner, the GX was incredibly capable, prioritizing ruggedness 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 might not be desirable in 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. Even the base 460 trim was well-equipped, featuring 10-way power front seats, leather upholstery, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The higher trims added more luxury and tech features, but CarGurus recommended the base 460 trim for its value.

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite a 2019 refresh and the introduction of a Black Edition in 2020, the Pilot's exterior design remained an acquired taste. The 2021 model was available in seven trims: LX, EX, EX-L, Special Edition, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition, with prices ranging from $32,250 to $49,920. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an extra $2,000 on most trims.

The new Special Edition trim added black 20-inch alloy wheels, blacked-out exterior trim, wireless smartphone charging, and a hands-free power tailgate. The Black Edition, which we tested, came fully loaded with exclusive black leather upholstery, red-tinted seat inserts, and red ambient lighting. The Pilot's interior was spacious and practical, with quality materials and plenty of storage. However, the third-row seat comfort was average, and the black floor mats were difficult to clean. Overall, the Pilot's design and interior were functional but lacked the rugged charm of the GX.

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 unique swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering was light but direct, and the self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth yet composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its 4WD system and various chassis controls, making it a capable vehicle for adventurous weekends. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet, making it surprisingly practical for city driving. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and an available torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. The Pilot's fuel-saving measures included variable-cylinder management and automatic engine stop/start, resulting in an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined for the AWD model. The Pilot offered a comfortable ride and unexpectedly athletic handling, thanks to its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. However, its off-road capability was limited by its 7.3 inches of ground clearance and all-season tires. The Pilot was more suited for minor off-road situations rather than serious off-roading.

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. These 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 challenging for adults. The GX had 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space with all rear seats folded, which was less than some competitors. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window/hatch was a useful feature.

The 2021 Honda Pilot provided ample room for a family, with seating for up to eight people when equipped with a second-row bench seat. The test vehicle's leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver's seat. Second-row captain's chairs were optional on the Touring trim and standard on Elite and Black Edition models, offering nearly the same comfort as the front seats. The third-row seat comfort was average, with a low and flat bottom cushion. The Pilot excelled in storage, with numerous compartments and a large center console. It offered 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 83.9 cubic feet.

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 plus for some drivers.

The 2021 Honda Pilot included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. The Special Edition added wireless phone charging, while the Touring trim offered navigation, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium audio system. The system was adequate but had some drawbacks, such as the lack of a tuning knob and limited HondaLink subscription services. The Touring trim also included a rear-seat entertainment system with various connectivity options.

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's great visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, added to its safety.

The 2021 Honda Pilot came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The Pilot's crash-test ratings were favorable, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and high ratings from the IIHS, except for an "acceptable" score for front passenger small overlap frontal-impact protection.