2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to impress with its rugged design and capability. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, the GX received some design tweaks for 2020, including the hourglass grille that became a signature of the Lexus lineup. While this grille design was polarizing on other models, it suited the GX well. The vehicle's decade-old platform, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, emphasized its rugged capability over modern innovation, making it a reliable choice for those who valued off-road prowess.

Inside, the GX's cabin showed its age with a design that remained largely unchanged from the early 2010s. The large center console, big buttons, and recessed infotainment screen were reminiscent of a bygone era. However, these features worked well for a rugged SUV, offering practicality and ease of use, especially for those who might operate the controls while wearing gloves. The GX was available in three trims: the 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery to advanced navigation systems.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, embraced a rugged exterior design that set it apart from previous generations and other compact crossovers. The boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and aggressive front end gave it a distinctive look. Underneath, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models. This platform provided a solid foundation, though it meant the RAV4's mechanical bits were more akin to a Camry than a 4Runner.

The RAV4's interior featured rugged styling touches, such as large rubberized knobs and door handles, which added to its adventurous appeal. Material quality was good on lower trims but didn't improve significantly on higher trims. The TRD Off-Road model, in particular, featured SofTex upholstery, which was durable and lighter than leather. However, real leather was not available, even on the top-tier Limited trim.

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 delivered 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 satisfying swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering, though initially feeling over-boosted, proved to be direct and responsive on the road. The self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth yet composed ride, capable of handling potholes and corners with ease.

The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its 4WD system and various chassis controls. It could tackle deep snow, mud, and sand without breaking a sweat. The vehicle also featured a panel of toggle switches for adjusting 4WD modes, suspension height, and other settings. With a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds and a tight turning radius of 19 feet, the GX was versatile enough for both city and off-road driving. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg observed during testing.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, a level typically found in racing engines, and delivered impressive output for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder. However, the transmission struggled to keep up, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience.

On the highway, the RAV4 provided a quiet cabin and a comfortable ride, making it suitable for long trips. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road models offered enhanced off-road capabilities with a torque-vectoring rear axle and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. The TRD Off-Road also featured model-specific suspension tuning and all-terrain tires, allowing it to handle rougher terrain than the average crossover. However, its lack of suspension articulation and shallow approach angles limited its off-road prowess.

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. These captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row and created a natural barrier between passengers. However, accessing the third row was challenging for adults. With all rear seats folded, the GX provided 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space, 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 Toyota RAV4 featured a tall, upright roof, providing ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. The RAV4 offered 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place, which was above average but still behind the Honda CR-V. The wide aperture made loading cargo easier, though the cargo area's lip was higher than in some rivals.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a decade-old layout. It featured a true touchscreen flanked by large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the simplicity of the system was a plus for many drivers.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trims had a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Limited trim had an 8-inch screen, and the RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with well-positioned graphics and shortcut buttons. However, it lacked the flashiness of some competitors and did not offer a head-up display on the gasoline model.

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 high driving position and large windows provided excellent visibility, enhancing safety.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, road-sign recognition, and Lane Tracing Assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic emergency braking, and park assist. A 360-degree camera system was also available.