2021 Kia Telluride vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite some design tweaks, retained much of its decade-old styling. The updated model featured the hourglass grille design, which was more palatable on the GX than on other Lexus models. The vehicle's rugged capability, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, allowed it to remain relevant despite its age. Inside, the GX's cabin was a throwback to the early 2010s, with a large, chunky center console and big buttons, which some found practical 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 to advanced navigation systems.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Telluride was praised for its contemporary design and quality execution. The Telluride's exterior styling was well-received, and its interior was noted for its modern design and premium materials, especially in the top-of-the-line SX trim with the Prestige package. The Telluride offered a range of features, including heated and ventilated seats, a head-up display, and a Nightfall Edition package for a blacked-out look. The Telluride's interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample storage and comfort for all passengers.

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 engines, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering was light but direct, and the self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth yet composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its 4WD system and various chassis controls. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride offered front-wheel drive as standard, with optional all-wheel drive that included a low-speed Lock function for better traction. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss and provided a firm yet compliant ride. The EX and SX trims included a self-leveling rear suspension for improved handling when loaded. The Telluride's fuel economy was better than the GX, with an average of 20.5 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs and power-folding third-row seats in the Premium and Luxury trims. However, accessing the third row was challenging for adults. The GX provided 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 was a useful feature.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a 14-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs, available with heating and ventilation, provided easy access to the third row. The Telluride offered ample storage solutions, including smartphone bins and USB ports. The smart hands-free power liftgate revealed 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Telluride's cargo area was easily accessible, with buttons to fold the second-row seats.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its true touchscreen interface with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls was simpler to use than modern systems. This simplicity was appreciated by some drivers, despite missing out on newer connectivity features.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The EX and SX trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and other upgrades. Kia's UVO Link connected services offered various features, including remote engine start and climate control, though a WiFi hotspot was not available. The Telluride's infotainment system was user-friendly, with menu shortcut buttons and intuitive touchscreen operation. The SX trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system and additional features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode.

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 Kia Telluride featured a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, forward-collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The EX and SX trims added Highway Drive Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. The SX trim also included front parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star rating from the NHTSA, though its standard headlights received a Poor rating.