2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Lincoln Corsair

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to hold its own with a rugged charm. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned in 2010, the GX maintained its second-generation design with some modern tweaks, including the bold hourglass grille that became a signature across the Lexus lineup. While this grille was polarizing on some models, it suited the GX well, better than its larger sibling, the LX. The GX's design, though dated, was a testament to its durability and capability, sharing a platform with the Toyota 4Runner, a vehicle known for its off-road prowess. Inside, the GX's cabin was a throwback to the early 2010s, with a chunky center console and large buttons, which, while outdated, were practical for an SUV designed for rugged use.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Corsair was a fresh face in the luxury SUV market, replacing the older MKC model. Built on the new C2 platform shared with the Ford Escape, the Corsair distinguished itself with a refined design that echoed its larger Lincoln siblings, the Aviator and Navigator. The Corsair's exterior was sleek and sophisticated, with design elements that made it appear larger than it was. Inside, the Corsair's cabin was modern and stylish, featuring a flowing dash and a floating center touchscreen. However, it did have more hard-touch materials compared to its more expensive counterparts. The Corsair's interior was spacious, with reclining and sliding rear seats that provided ample comfort for passengers.

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 4-wheel drive system. While these figures might not have been groundbreaking compared to modern engines, the V8 offered a robust and reliable power delivery, making the GX a formidable off-road vehicle. The GX's steering was light yet responsive, and its self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth ride, capable of handling rough terrains with ease. 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 less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg observed during testing.

The 2021 Lincoln Corsair offered a choice between two turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The base 2.0-liter engine produced 250 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the optional 2.3-liter engine delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the 2.3-liter engine exclusively available with all-wheel drive. The Corsair featured unique drive modes like "Conserve" and "Excite," enhancing its driving experience. The 2.3-liter engine provided brisk acceleration, and the Corsair handled confidently, even at high speeds. The suspension was designed to absorb road imperfections, though some road noise was noticeable. The Grand Touring trim introduced a plug-in hybrid powertrain, offering 266 horsepower and an efficiency rating of 78 MPGe in electric mode.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered a practical interior with available second-row captain's chairs and power-folding third-row seats in the Luxury trim. While the captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row, getting into the third row was challenging for adults. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 64.7 cubic feet available with all rear seats folded. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window was a convenient feature.

The 2021 Lincoln Corsair boasted a spacious cabin with comfortable seating and ample storage space. However, the pronounced lip at the doorframe required caution when entering or exiting the vehicle. The Corsair's reclining and sliding rear seats offered impressive legroom, making it a comfortable choice for road trips. Cargo space was average for its class, with 27.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 57.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Corsair came standard with a power liftgate and offered a hands-free option.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system was outdated, featuring a true touchscreen with large buttons for easy operation. However, it lacked modern connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which might have been a drawback for tech-savvy drivers. Despite this, the simplicity of the system was appreciated by those who preferred straightforward controls.

The 2021 Lincoln Corsair came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen running the SYNC 3 infotainment system, which included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a logical menu layout. The Reserve trim added features like wireless device charging, a 14-speaker Revel audio system, and a head-up display, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Lexus GX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera. The GX's excellent visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, contributed to its safety.

The 2021 Lincoln Corsair came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. It also offered lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The CoPilot360 Plus package added advanced features like adaptive LED headlights, a 360-degree camera, and reverse automatic braking. The Corsair earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus rating when equipped with high-feature headlights.