2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Ford Explorer

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal both inside and out. The exterior updates included standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to align with Lexus cars, and new paint colors like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl were introduced. The rear of the vehicle featured a new shape with dual exhaust, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, along with an available hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX maintained its well-appointed cabin with various interior color and material combinations, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport appearance package added unique elements like a special steering wheel, shift knob, and 20-inch wheels, enhancing the sporty feel. Despite its aging center stack design, the RX's interior was comfortable and luxurious, with leather-wrapped surfaces and a focus on durability for family use.

The 2021 Ford Explorer presented a cohesive family resemblance with its SUV lineup, featuring sporty, raked belt lines and distinctive visages. The Explorer offered six trim levels, each with varying grille designs and price points ranging from $32,925 to $52,730. Inside, the Explorer provided three rows of seating as standard, with cloth upholstery on the base model. The dash was clean, with an 8-inch LCD touchscreen and large knobs and buttons for audio and climate controls. The center console housed a rotary gearshift, freeing up space for storage. The XLT trim, popular among consumers, offered better equipment like a power front passenger seat and nicer finishes. Leather upholstery was available on higher trims, enhancing the interior's appeal.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The three-row RX 350L models had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450h hybrid combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with a recommended 95 octane fuel. The RX 450hL hybrid offered 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor, with a 37-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 7.9-second 0-60 mph time for most models. Fuel economy was a highlight for the hybrid models, with the RX 450h achieving 30 mpg combined. The RX F Sport models featured adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels, enhancing agility. Various drive modes, including Sport S+ for F Sport models, allowed for a customizable driving experience.

The 2021 Ford Explorer, weighing 4,345 pounds at its lightest, offered a base 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Limited Hybrid trim increased power to 310 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. Higher trims featured a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, delivering 365 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, with the sport-oriented Explorer ST offering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer excelled in towing capacity, ranging from 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, depending on the trim and engine. The 10-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift capability was standard across all trims, providing a smooth driving experience.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was not as minimalist or stylish as its German competitors, but it was functional. The two-row RX model comfortably accommodated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children. The cabin was spacious in its two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility. However, the cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor compromising space. The RX 350L and 450hL also had less cargo space compared to competitors like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models and standard on RX-L versions.

The 2021 Ford Explorer offered seating for seven in the base trim, with captain's chairs in higher trims reducing capacity to six. The second row provided 39 inches of legroom, surpassing some competitors. With the third row deployed, the Explorer offered 21 cubic feet of cargo space, but overall cargo volume with rear seats folded was 81 cubic feet, comparable to smaller SUVs. The Explorer's interior was practical, with ample space for passengers and cargo.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020, including moving the display closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was available, though navigation remained challenging. Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and other integrations helped mitigate system issues. The RX featured six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2021 Ford Explorer offered an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. The Limited trim added a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, with higher trims offering a 10.1-inch touchscreen and up to 14 speakers. The Explorer provided multiple USB ports and power points, with a wireless charging pad available from the Limited trim up.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams. Additional features like daytime bicyclist detection and lane-tracing assist were standard. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect subscriptions were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.

The 2021 Ford Explorer was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests. The Ford Co-Pilot360 suite was standard, offering features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite, available on higher trims, added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The Explorer's safety offerings were comprehensive, though some features required higher trims.