2021 Toyota Venza vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to hold its own with a rugged design that featured the brand's signature hourglass grille. This SUV, which shared its platform with the Toyota 4Runner, was known for its off-road capabilities, making it a favorite among those who valued performance over modern aesthetics. Inside, the GX's cabin retained a decade-old design with a large center console and big buttons, which some found charmingly utilitarian. 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 Toyota Venza presented a more modern and sleek appearance, often compared to a Lexus in terms of design. It was shorter and lower than the RAV4, yet shared the same wheelbase, giving it a unique stance. The Venza was available in three trims: LE, XLE, and Limited, each offering a variety of paint colors and standard features like LED lighting and a wireless charging pad. The interior of the Venza was distinct, with premium appointments and a focus on comfort, making it a more refined choice for those seeking a stylish and practical SUV.

The 2020 Lexus GX was powered by a robust 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. This setup provided a powerful driving experience, especially in off-road conditions, where the GX excelled. The vehicle's steering was light yet responsive, and the self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth ride. The GX's off-road capabilities were further enhanced by its 4WD modes and Downhill Assist Control, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg observed during testing.

The 2021 Toyota Venza, on the other hand, featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. While not as powerful as some competitors, the Venza offered smooth acceleration and confident handling. Its electronically-controlled continuously-variable transmission (eCVT) provided a seamless driving experience, though engine noise was noticeable during acceleration. The Venza's standout feature was its exceptional fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 40 mpg on the highway and 39 mpg combined, making it a highly efficient choice for daily driving.

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

The 2021 Toyota Venza, while not as rugged as the RAV4, provided a more refined interior with premium materials and a spacious feel. The cabin featured a deep center console with various controls and a wireless charging pad. The Venza's seating was comfortable for both front and rear passengers, and its cargo space, though less than the RAV4, was sufficient for daily use with a maximum of 55.1 cubic feet. The quick-flip releases on the rear seats made arranging the cargo area easy.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a simpler, touchscreen interface that lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While some appreciated the straightforward design, others missed the modern connectivity features found in newer models.

The 2021 Toyota Venza offered a more advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch screen on the LE and XLE trims and a 12.3-inch screen on the Limited trim. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, providing a comprehensive suite of connectivity options. The Venza also featured a Wi-Fi hotspot and a nine-speaker JBL audio system on higher trims, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.

The 2020 Lexus GX came equipped 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, contributing to the vehicle's safety credentials.

The 2021 Toyota Venza was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features such as pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard, with an upgrade available for automatic braking. The Venza's safety features were effective and non-intrusive, providing peace of mind for drivers.