2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2020 Lexus GX

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 adopted the hourglass grille design seen across the Lexus lineup, which looked better on the GX than on some other models. Despite the new front end and headlights, the GX retained its decade-old platform, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, emphasizing rugged capability over modern innovation.

Inside, the GX's cabin was a throwback to the early 2010s, with a large, chunky center console and big buttons. This design might not appeal to those looking for a modern luxury SUV interior, but it worked for a rugged SUV like the GX. The GX was available in three trims: 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 features and value.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a new seven-passenger model, distinct from the existing two-row Grand Cherokee. It was an extended version of the upcoming redesigned 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and more cargo volume. The Grand Cherokee L's styling was a strong selling point, resembling a smaller version of the upcoming Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models. It was instantly recognizable as a Jeep with its signature seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches.

Jeep offered the Grand Cherokee L in multiple trims: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $36,995 to $64,235. Our test vehicle, a Summit trim with 4WD, metallic paint, and several high-end options, had a sticker price of $64,770. While some interior materials didn't meet the high price expectations, the Summit's quilted leather and real wood trim were appealing, and the Grand Cherokee L was loaded with technology, representing a significant improvement over the old model.

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 4WD. While these specs might not impress 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, and the self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth yet composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with various 4WD modes and a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds. However, its fuel economy was a downside, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine making 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in RWD or 4WD. The V6 offered brisk acceleration but was loud when revved, and the transmission sometimes resisted downshifts to improve fuel economy. The Grand Cherokee L's fuel economy was 21 mpg combined, but our test vehicle averaged just 17.8 mpg. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with 4WD, produced 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds but reducing fuel economy to 17 mpg combined. The Grand Cherokee L featured a Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension, providing up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance and impressive off-road capability.

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. The captain's chairs provided easy access 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, less than some competitors. It featured a unique side-opening rear hatch and a separately opening rear window/hatch for convenient access to the cargo area.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's Summit trim featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with 12-way power adjustment, a heated steering wheel, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were too small, making it difficult to cool the cabin quickly. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and comfort, with manual side window sunshades. The third row was comfortable for all but the tallest adults, with large side windows for a great view. The Grand Cherokee L had 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.6 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it featured a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, offering simplicity over modern complexity.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with a choice of 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreens. Our test vehicle had the larger screen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, satellite radio, and connected services. The system included a natural voice-recognition system and an optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system. Additional features included a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, digital rearview mirror, night vision system, and Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, including 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, a hands-on driving-assistance system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The system worked well but felt artificial in the driver's hands. The Grand Cherokee L also featured Intersection Collision Assist, detecting threats at intersections and applying brakes if necessary. Additional safety features included Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review, but the new model was expected to improve upon the old Grand Cherokee's ratings.