2021 Nissan Murano 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 GX continued into 2020 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 age was even more apparent. The cabin design remained largely unchanged from a decade ago, featuring a large, chunky center console with big buttons and a recessed infotainment screen. While this might seem outdated for a luxury SUV, it worked for the GX's rugged character. Lexus offered the GX in three trims: the 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury. Even the base 460 trim came well-equipped with features like 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 sticking with the base 460 trim for its value.

The 2021 Nissan Murano, on the other hand, had a design that was once ahead of its time but had become more mainstream by 2021. Its L-shaped LED headlights and contoured front end were no longer groundbreaking but still attractive. The interior was more conservative, focusing on comfort and ease of use. The Murano was designed for commutes and road trips, with controls placed intuitively to minimize the learning curve.

The Murano was available in four trims: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The base S trim came with a host of standard features, including an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As you moved up the trims, additional features like power-adjustable front seats, adaptive cruise control, leather upholstery, and a Bose premium stereo system were added. The top-tier Platinum trim offered luxury touches like a dual-panel panoramic moonroof and premium leather seats.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This power was sent through a 6-speed automatic transmission to a standard 4-wheel drive system. While these figures might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 provided a unique 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 estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2021 Nissan Murano came with a single engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and came with standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The V6 provided strong low-speed acceleration, making it great for city driving, but the CVT dulled its power at higher speeds. The Murano prioritized comfort, offering a refined ride that handled corners well and absorbed road bumps effectively. However, its towing capacity was limited to 1,500 pounds, which was lower than many of its competitors.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with the latter also featuring power-folding third-row seats. These captain's chairs provided easier access to the third row and acted as a barrier between kids. However, getting adults into the third row was challenging. 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, which was less convenient than a traditional liftgate but did feature a separately opening rear window.

The 2021 Nissan Murano provided up to 67 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 32.1 cubic feet with the seats in use. While this was less than some competitors, the Murano made up for it with ease of use. The interior featured a traditional shifter design and a center console with plenty of storage options. The Murano excelled in providing ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, with the second-row seats offering partial reclining functionality.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a last-generation Lexus Enform setup. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it was a true touchscreen flanked by large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. This simpler layout was easier to use compared to more modern Lexus systems.

The 2021 Nissan Murano came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system had a sensible menu layout and was backed by hard buttons and dials for easier navigation. Higher trims offered additional tech features like an 11-speaker Bose premium stereo system and navigation.

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 high driving position and large windows provided excellent visibility, adding to its safety.

The 2021 Nissan Murano came with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which included new standard features like reverse automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also had forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and driver drowsiness monitoring. Additional features like a surround-view parking monitor and adaptive cruise control were available on higher trims.