2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior. These updates were more than just minor tweaks; 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 boasted 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 of the vehicle featured a new shape with dual exhausts, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, complemented by an available hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX offered a well-appointed cabin with various interior color and material combinations, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added unique elements like a special steering wheel, shift knob, and 20-inch wheels, along with performance dampers and other enhancements. The leather-wrapped surfaces provided a premium feel, though the center stack's design was beginning to show its age.

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance style with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite efforts to give the SUV a rugged appearance with a 2019 refresh and a 2020 Black Edition, its exterior design remained polarizing. The 2021 lineup included seven trims, from the base LX to the upscale Black Edition, with prices ranging from $32,250 to $49,920. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost, except on the Elite and Black Edition trims where it was standard. The new Special Edition trim added features like black 20-inch alloy wheels and wireless smartphone charging. The Black Edition, tested with a $395 Platinum White Pearl paint job, featured exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents. While quality materials were evident, the Pilot's interior resembled a minivan, which, along with its exterior design, did not enhance its appeal.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. The three-row RX 350L had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. A hybrid version, the RX 450h, combined the V6 with an electric motor for 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, requiring 95 octane fuel. The RX 450hL, an elongated hybrid, offered 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor, with a 37-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The RX hybrid models featured an electronically-controlled CVT and all-wheel drive, with an additional motor on the rear axle for extra power. The RX was not particularly athletic, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it provided sufficient power for most driving situations. Fuel economy was a highlight for the hybrid models, with the RX 450h achieving 30 mpg combined. The RX F Sport models offered adaptive variable suspension and other performance enhancements, while various drive modes allowed for customization. The RX delivered a smooth and connected driving experience, though it struggled in snowy conditions without torque-vectoring technology.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The available torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system could direct up to 70 percent of engine output to a single rear wheel, enhancing traction. The Pilot offered driving modes like Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand, and included fuel-saving features like variable-cylinder management and automatic engine stop/start. The EPA estimated 22 mpg combined for the AWD model, with a test average of 21.5 mpg. The Pilot's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension provided a comfortable ride and agile handling, aided by the torque-vectoring AWD system and 20-inch wheels. The steering was responsive, and the brakes were well-calibrated, though they could heat up with prolonged use. Off-road capability was limited by the Pilot's ground clearance and all-season tires, but it could handle minor challenges.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was not as minimalist or stylish as some German luxury SUVs, but it was functional. The two-row RX comfortably seated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best for small children or pets. The cabin was spacious in the two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and decent visibility, though the A-pillar could obstruct views. The cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350L and 450hL also offered less cargo space than rivals, with about 20 cubic feet less than the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models and standard on RX-L versions.

The 2021 Honda Pilot provided ample space for families, seating up to eight with a second-row bench seat. The test vehicle's front seats were leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Second-row captain's chairs were optional on Touring trims and standard on Elite and Black Edition models, offering comfort and adjustability. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults due to a low cushion. Storage was abundant, with compartments in door panels, the center console, and seatback pockets. The Pilot offered 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 46.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 83.9 cubic feet.

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 still challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay integration helped mitigate issues. The RX also offered Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and other app compatibility. The center console touchpad system was more responsive, and the RX included six USB ports. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. The Special Edition added wireless charging, while the Touring trim included navigation, a premium audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The infotainment system was functional but lacked a tuning knob and had limited voice-recognition capabilities. The Touring trim's entertainment system offered DVD and Blu-Ray playback, along with streaming apps.

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 had a three-year subscription to Lexus Enform Safety Connect and a 10-year subscription to Enform Service Connect. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.

The 2021 Honda Pilot included Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring was available on higher trims. The Pilot's safety systems were effective but not as refined as newer versions. The NHTSA gave the Pilot a five-star overall rating, while the IIHS rated it highly, with some exceptions.