2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to hold its ground with a rugged design that appealed to those who valued capability over modern aesthetics. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned in 2010, the GX maintained its classic look with some updates, including the hourglass grille that became a signature of the Lexus lineup. While the design might have seemed outdated to some, it was a testament to its durability and shared platform with the Toyota 4Runner, emphasizing its off-road prowess. Inside, the GX's cabin retained its early 2010s styling, with a large center console and big buttons, which some found practical for rugged use, even if it lacked the modern touch of newer models.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a more contemporary and minimalist design, fitting well within the Volvo family with its "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and simple grille. The XC40 Recharge, the electric variant, featured subtle differences like a blanked-off grille and unique alloy wheels. The interior was praised for its high-quality materials and coherent design, with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The XC40's design was more in line with modern luxury crossovers, appealing to those who preferred a sleek and understated look.

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 4WD system. While these figures might not have been groundbreaking, the V8 provided a robust driving experience, especially in off-road conditions. The GX's steering was light yet responsive, and the self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth ride. Its off-road capabilities were impressive, with features like adjustable 4WD modes and a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. However, its fuel economy was less than stellar, with an average of 16.3 mpg observed during testing.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a diverse powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, with the T4 producing 187 horsepower and the T5 offering 248 horsepower. The Recharge model boasted 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, thanks to its dual electric motors. The Recharge accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, showcasing its impressive performance. The XC40 emphasized comfort and quietness, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. The Recharge also featured one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered a practical interior with options for second-row captain's chairs and power-folding third-row seats. 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 side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window was a convenient feature.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, while not the most spacious in its class, provided clever storage solutions to maximize utility. The center console featured a removable trash bin, and the door bins were enlarged by relocating the speakers to the dashboard. The XC40's cargo space was smaller compared to rivals, but the thoughtful design elements compensated for this to some extent. The Recharge model shared the same interior space as the gasoline versions, maintaining a consistent experience across the lineup.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its simplicity was appreciated by those who preferred straightforward controls, with a true touchscreen and large buttons for easy operation.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, offering top-notch graphics and menu layouts. The Recharge also supported OTA updates, enhancing its functionality over time. The lack of a start button and the potential for a Digital Key feature added to its modern appeal.

The 2020 Lexus GX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available, complementing the vehicle's excellent visibility.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA for its gasoline models, though the Recharge had not been tested due to its different structure. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Recharge model featured Volvo's latest sensor suite, allowing for future advancements in driver aids.