2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

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 vehicles bearing the Toyota logo. The exterior boasted standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to resemble other Lexus models, and new paint options like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl were introduced. The rear featured a new shape with dual exhausts, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, along with 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 features like a special steering wheel, shift knob, and 20-inch wheels, enhancing the SUV's sporty appeal. The leather-wrapped surfaces exuded luxury, while the center stack, though functional, appeared dated compared to industry trends.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was designed with a rugged exterior, reminiscent of traditional SUVs, featuring boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This aggressive styling set it apart from previous RAV4 generations and other compact crossovers. Despite its bold appearance, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models. The RAV4 Adventure model offered a retro look with an Ice Edge roof and orange interior accents, while the TRD Off-Road model featured matte black wheels, LED fog lights, and red interior accents. The interior included rugged touches like large rubberized knobs and door handles, distinguishing it from other Toyota models. Material quality was decent on lower trims but didn't improve significantly on higher trims. The TRD Off-Road model had SofTex upholstery, which was lighter and durable, fitting its outdoorsy theme. However, real leather wasn't available, even on the top RAV4 Limited trim.

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 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. The RX 450hL hybrid had a similar setup but produced 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX hybrid models featured an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, with an additional motor on the rear axle for extra power. The RX wasn't particularly sporty, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered a smooth driving experience. The RX 350 achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h hybrid excelled with 30 mpg combined. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels for improved agility. Drivers could choose from various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and EV mode for hybrids. The RX 350 F Sport provided a smooth throttle response and shifting, with good maneuverability and a quiet cabin.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a "Dynamic Force" 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 Hybrid offered 219 horsepower, while the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower. The Dynamic Force engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, similar to racing engines, but the transmission struggled to keep up, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The steering was responsive but lacked feel, and the Sport mode only added weight to the steering. The RAV4 was more comfortable on the highway, with low cabin noise and a smooth suspension. Toyota focused on off-road capability, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models featuring a torque-vectoring rear axle and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. The TRD Off-Road model had specific suspension tuning and all-terrain tires, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. However, its off-road capabilities were limited by suspension articulation and approach angles.

The 2020 Lexus RX interior wasn't as minimalist or stylish as its German competitors, but it was functional. The two-row RX comfortably accommodated 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 good visibility, though the A-pillar obstructed some views. The cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor limiting 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 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof with competitive headroom and good visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. The RAV4 featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, but it didn't slide like some competitors. Cargo space was above average at 37.6 cubic feet, but still behind the Honda CR-V. The cargo area had a wide aperture for easy loading, though the lip was higher than in the Honda. The RAV4's oversized knobs and controls were user-friendly, even with gloves, but the center-console storage was limited.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020. The standard 8.0-inch display and optional 12.3-inch touchscreen were moved closer to the driver. Despite this, the system remained challenging to navigate, with limited customization options. However, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other integrations provided workarounds. The RX featured a touchscreen and a touchpad system, which had improved responsiveness. The RX included six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trims had a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Limited model had an 8-inch screen, and the RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen. Up to five USB ports were available, and a JBL premium audio system was optional. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with easy-to-read graphics and shortcut buttons, but it wasn't particularly flashy. The gasoline RAV4 lacked a head-up display, which was available on the RAV4 Prime.

The 2020 Lexus RX included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2020 model added daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX came with 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 Toyota RAV4 earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it missed the "Top Safety Pick+" rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA gave the RAV4 a five-star overall rating. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system.