2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

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 with some new design tweaks. The updated GX featured the hourglass grille design that had become a staple in the Lexus lineup. While this grille was polarizing on some models, it was more palatable on the GX compared to the larger LX. Despite the new front end and headlights, the GX retained its decade-old platform, sharing its rugged underpinnings with the Toyota 4Runner. This connection to the 4Runner meant the GX prioritized capability over innovation, appealing to those who valued off-road prowess.

Inside, the GX's cabin was a throwback to the early 2010s, with a large, chunky center console and big buttons. This design might have seemed outdated for a luxury SUV, but it worked for the GX's rugged character. The interior featured practical elements like operable dials and knobs, which Lexus once touted as usable while wearing work gloves. The GX was available in three trims: the 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery and power sunroof to advanced navigation and rear-seat entertainment systems. CarGurus recommended the base 460 trim for its well-rounded standard features.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy trim distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It also featured 20-inch wheels and upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner. These enhancements made the Calligraphy trim look more upscale compared to other Palisade versions. The Limited trim, while still appealing, adopted a look similar to the Palisade SEL with the Convenience or Premium packages. The Calligraphy trim drew attention, though opinions on its styling varied.

Inside, the Calligraphy trim offered a luxurious experience with a Beige over Navy Blue color scheme and premium Nappa leather. The simulated suede headliner and striated wood trim added to the upscale feel. The cabin's quality and design made the Palisade Calligraphy seem like a bargain compared to other midsize three-row SUVs. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with features like heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and separate climate controls for third-row passengers. The Palisade's interior size, seating, and accessibility were nearly perfect, making it a standout in its class.

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 specs might not have been impressive compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 offered a distinctive swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering was light but direct and responsive, providing a composed ride. The self-leveling air suspension added to the smoothness, allowing the GX to handle potholes and bumps with ease.

The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its 4WD system and various chassis controls. It could tackle deep snow, mud, sand, and mild off-road trails without breaking a sweat. The GX also had a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds and a tight turning radius of 19 feet, making it a practical choice for urban environments. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. During a week of combined driving, the GX averaged 16.3 mpg.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD), with an optional all-wheel-drive system. Drivers could choose between Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models adding a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved low-speed traction. The Palisade AWD had an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in combined driving, and the test vehicle averaged 21.1 mpg with Smart mode engaged.

The Palisade's suspension tuning provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive. It offered a firmer feel compared to its platform-mate, the Kia Telluride, without compromising ride quality. The Palisade was sure-footed and confidence-inspiring on twisty roads, though it didn't encourage aggressive driving. In typical driving scenarios, the Palisade was undemanding, with plenty of power and easy maneuverability. The Highway Drive Assist technology made highway cruising effortless, adding to the overall driving experience. The Palisade also had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

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. The captain's chairs provided a small access way to the third row and a natural barrier between passengers. However, accessing the third row could be 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, with a separately opening rear window/hatch for added convenience.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space, seating, and accessibility. The Calligraphy trim featured eight-way power-adjustable seats for the driver and passenger, with additional thigh support for the driver and a heated steering wheel. The front and second-row seats were heated and ventilated, and third-row passengers had separate climate controls and sunshades. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and support, with easy access to the third row. The Palisade's third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class.

The Palisade offered plenty of in-cabin storage, with a spacious front center console and door panels. Cargo space measured 18 cubic feet behind the third-row seats, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet with the third row folded. With the second-row seats folded, the Palisade offered a roomy 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space. The hands-free Smart Liftgate automatically opened when it detected the key fob, though this feature could be turned off if desired.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a last-generation Lexus Enform setup. It featured a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, offering a simpler user interface compared to modern Lexus systems. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which could be a drawback for some drivers.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Both systems could pair two smartphones to Bluetooth simultaneously, but only the 8-inch setup offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Calligraphy trim included features like SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, Blue Link connected services, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Other technology features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, Quiet Mode, and a head-up display (HUD). The surround-view camera system and voice-recognition technology added to the Palisade's tech-savvy appeal.

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, with large windows and mirrors, added to its safety.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and multiple lane-keeping systems as standard. It also featured a rear occupant alert system, active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, and Safe Exit Assist. The Limited and Calligraphy trims included a Blind View Monitor and ultrasonic rear occupant alert system. The Palisade's Highway Drive Assist technology provided smooth and sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, and its Blue Link services included automatic collision warning and emergency assistance.