2021 Toyota Sienna 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 into 2020 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 a decade-old design, sharing a platform with the rugged Toyota 4Runner, which emphasized capability over innovation.

Inside, the GX's age was even more apparent. The cabin featured a large, chunky center console with big buttons and a recessed infotainment screen, reminiscent of early 2010s Lexus styling. While this interior might not suit a new Lexus RX, it worked for the GX's rugged SUV persona. The GX was available in three trims: the 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.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to change the perception of minivans with a more SUV-like appearance. The wide grille and LED headlamp arrays gave it a sleek look, while the sculpted sliding side doors and various alloy wheel sizes added to its assertive stance. The fit and finish of the exterior were superb, reflecting Toyota's quality standards. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines and a higher seating position, offering a comfortable ride. The dashboard was simple and uncluttered, with most controls clustered on the upper part of the center stack.

The second and third rows were comfortable for adults, with the second row sliding up to 25 inches for easy access to the third row. The cabin featured numerous storage cubbies and cupholders, making it highly functional for families. The Sienna's cargo handling capabilities were impressive, with the ability to carry a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood inside. The hybrid battery was cleverly tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

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 V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 offered a distinctive swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering was light yet direct and responsive, and the self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth, 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 less impressive, averaging 16.3 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trim levels. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which prioritized fuel efficiency over throttle response. The new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension improved handling, making the Sienna comfortable and easy to drive. The big news was its fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 36 mpg combined, while AWD models were rated at 35/36/35 mpg combined.

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. The second-row captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row and a natural barrier between kids. However, getting into the third row was a bit of a chore for adults. With all rear seats folded, the GX offered 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/hatch was a useful feature.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience functions, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored away easily. The second row slid up to 25 inches, making it easy to access the third row. The cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies. The Sienna could carry a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood inside, with nominal cargo measurements of 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101.0 cubic feet behind the first row. The hybrid battery was cleverly tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space, and the Sienna could tow up to 3,500 pounds.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, featuring the last generation of Lexus Enform. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it was a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, offering simplicity over modern complexity.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna packed in a ton of standard and available technology features. A nine-inch touchscreen was standard, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. The Sienna also came with a year's trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, a ten-year trial of Service Connect, and a three-month trial of AT&T WiFi Connect. Higher trims offered a Premium Audio + JBL package, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a digital rearview mirror. The driver enjoyed a color multi-information display and, in Platinum trim, a 10-inch color Head-Up Display.

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 massive windows and mirrors, added to its safety.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. It also featured the Star Safety System, 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, a rear-seat reminder system, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The 2020 Sienna received high safety ratings, and the 2021 model was expected to perform similarly.