2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior. The updates were not minor; they allowed the RX to stand out in a competitive market. Despite its age, the RX maintained a stylish edge over its Toyota counterparts. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to align with other Lexus models, and new paint options like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl were introduced. The rear was updated with a new shape, dual exhaust, and a hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX offered a well-appointed cabin with various color and material combinations, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trims. The F Sport package added unique features like a special steering wheel, shift knob, and 20-inch wheels, enhancing the SUV's sporty appeal. The interior was luxurious yet practical, with leather-wrapped surfaces and a straightforward design, though the center stack appeared dated.

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that balanced innovation with brand identity. It borrowed design elements from the G80 sedan, featuring a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and the Genesis flying "G" badge. The "Quad Lamp" LED headlights and taillights became signature elements. The GV80 offered a choice of wheel sizes, and its paint and trim quality were excellent. Inside, the GV80 was sleek and uncluttered, emphasizing width and spaciousness. The dashboard integrated technology seamlessly, with a bridge-like center console and minimal controls. The shift-by-wire technology replaced the traditional gear lever with a rotary dial. The cabin was filled with authentic materials like real wood, metal, and leather, creating a luxurious environment.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350L variant had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450hL had a similar setup but with 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX was not particularly athletic, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered a smooth and connected driving experience. Fuel economy was a strong point for the hybrid models, with the RX 450h achieving 30 mpg combined. The RX F Sport models featured adaptive variable suspension and sportier handling options.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The GV80 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The 2.5T models had a self-leveling rear suspension option, while the 3.5T models came with electronically-controlled suspension with road preview. The GV80's performance varied with engine choice, with the 3.5T offering a smoother and more powerful experience. Fuel economy for the 2.5T was 23 mpg combined with RWD, while the 3.5T AWD achieved 20 mpg combined.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was functional but not as stylish as its German competitors. The two-row model comfortably seated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best for small children. The cabin was spacious in its two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and decent visibility. However, the cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor. The RX 350L and 450hL also had limited cargo space compared to competitors like the Lincoln Aviator.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and design. The center console featured a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capability. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking. The second row was comfortable for two adults, with power seats and window shades available. The third row was standard on 3.5T AWD Advanced+ models, increasing passenger capacity to seven, with power-folding seats.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020. The display was moved closer to the driver, and the system became a touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing alternatives to the Lexus system. The RX featured six USB ports and an available 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's infotainment system was advanced, with a 14.5-inch HD screen and user-configurable displays. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with over-the-air updates and cloud profiles. The GV80 offered a digital key function for Android users and three years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. It also featured daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but Genesis aimed for high safety ratings. The GV80 included 10 airbags, vehicle stability management, blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and forward collision-avoidance assist. It also featured adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist.