2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser presented a design that was understated yet functional, with subtle styling choices that became apparent after spending time with the vehicle. Its hood was uniquely dished in the center, enhancing forward visibility for the driver, a practical feature for navigating challenging terrains. The fenders slightly bulged to accommodate wheel travel, subtly indicating the vehicle's width. The Land Cruiser Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a distinctive grille, and bronze BBS wheels, while the interior offered near-luxury comfort with black perforated leather seating and a functional, albeit plain, dashboard.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, adopted the bold hourglass grille design, which suited its rugged character better than some other Lexus models. The GX's interior retained a decade-old design with a chunky center console and large buttons, which, while outdated, provided a straightforward and practical user experience. The GX was available in three trims, each offering a range of luxury features, from leather upholstery to advanced climate control systems. The Luxury trim, in particular, offered premium amenities like a heated steering wheel and self-leveling air suspension, enhancing the overall comfort and functionality of the vehicle.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, provided the Land Cruiser with impressive off-road capabilities. Its suspension system, featuring a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and a Multi-Terrain Select control knob, allowed for seamless adaptation to various terrains. The Land Cruiser's geometry, with an approach angle of 32 degrees and a departure angle of 24 degrees, further emphasized its off-road prowess. Despite its size, the Land Cruiser offered a serene driving experience, with controlled body roll and excellent visibility.

The 2020 Lexus GX, equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. While these figures might not seem impressive compared to modern engines, the GX's V8 provided a satisfying power delivery. The GX featured a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD, making it capable of handling challenging terrains with ease. Its self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth ride, and the vehicle's steering, though initially light, proved to be direct and responsive. The GX's off-road capabilities were further enhanced by its various 4WD modes and Downhill Assist Control, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a practical and versatile interior, with a three-row configuration in the standard model and a two-row setup in the Heritage Edition. The second-row seats were heated and could slide, recline, fold, and tumble, while the third-row seats featured folding headrests. The Land Cruiser provided ample storage options, including a cooling box in the center console and numerous cup holders. Its split tailgate design added a touch of retro charm and practicality, making loading and unloading easy. The Land Cruiser's towing capacity of up to 8,100 pounds further highlighted its utility.

The 2020 Lexus GX, available with second-row captain's chairs and power-folding third-row seats, offered a flexible interior layout. However, its cargo space was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, which was less than some competitors. The GX's side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window was a convenient feature. Despite its limited cargo space, the GX's interior was well-appointed, with options for premium leather upholstery and advanced climate control systems, catering to families and luxury SUV enthusiasts alike.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a range of modern technology, including a Qi-compatible inductive charging station and a 9-inch touchscreen interface. The infotainment system included Toyota Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation, 14 JBL speakers, and various connectivity options. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were becoming standard in many competitors. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system was a standout feature, providing selectable front, side, or rear views for navigating challenging terrains or tight parking spaces.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system, though outdated, offered a straightforward user experience with a true touchscreen and large buttons for essential controls. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the simplicity of the system was appreciated by some drivers. The GX's technology package included the Lexus Safety System+, which provided advanced driver-assistance features, enhancing the overall safety and convenience of the vehicle.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering features like a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also included the Star Safety System, with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Land Cruiser's 10 airbags and various safety systems provided peace of mind, though it had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available, enhancing the vehicle's safety profile. The GX's excellent visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, further contributed to its safety credentials.