2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a masterclass in understated elegance. Its design was not about flashy aesthetics but rather about functional beauty that became apparent with time. The dished hood was a prime example, enhancing forward visibility for the driver, a crucial feature for off-road navigation. The subtle bulging of the fenders was not just for show; it accommodated wheel travel and hinted at the vehicle's width. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze BBS wheels, all of which contributed to its rugged yet refined appearance. Inside, the Land Cruiser flirted with luxury, offering black perforated leather seating and a functional, albeit slightly plain, dashboard. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system was surrounded by a sea of buttons and knobs, ensuring that every function was easily accessible, even if the design leaned towards the utilitarian.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with minor updates like the spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's exterior was aggressive and distinctive, appealing to those who favored a tough SUV look. However, the interior did not quite match the luxury standards expected in modern SUVs. The wood trim felt more like plastic, and the abundance of actual plastic detracted from the luxury feel. Despite this, the GX offered standard leather upholstery, with semi-aniline leather available on the Luxury trim. The interior ergonomics were a bit dated, with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel position, but the visibility was excellent, thanks to the boxy profile and low side glass.

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, combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, made the Land Cruiser a formidable force on any terrain. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and a Multi-Terrain Select control knob, allowing drivers to adapt to various surface conditions. With an approach angle of 32 degrees, a departure angle of 24 degrees, and a breakover angle of 21 degrees, the Land Cruiser was well-equipped for off-road adventures. Despite its size, the vehicle offered a serene driving experience, with controlled body roll and excellent visibility, making long journeys comfortable and enjoyable.

The 2021 Lexus GX, on the other hand, featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the engine provided sufficient power for initial acceleration, the GX's 5,130-pound weight was noticeable at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for overtaking maneuvers. The ride quality was typical of a body-on-frame vehicle, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, with a Torsen center differential and several driver aids like hill-descent control and hill-start assist. The optional Off-Road Package further enhanced its off-road prowess, making it a strong contender for those seeking adventure beyond paved roads.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a versatile interior with a three-row configuration in the standard model, accommodating up to eight passengers. The second-row seats were heated and could slide, recline, fold, and tumble to optimize space, while the third row featured folding headrests. The vehicle boasted four-zone automatic climate control and a cooling box in the center console, adding to its practicality. With a towing capacity of 8,100 pounds and a split tailgate design, the Land Cruiser was well-suited for both family trips and outdoor adventures.

In comparison, the 2021 Lexus GX's interior felt cramped due to the upright dashboard and high center console. The three-row seating arrangement offered space for seven passengers, but accessing the third row was challenging, and it was best suited for children. The GX provided 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, which was less than some competitors. Despite these limitations, the GX featured analog controls for various functions, making it user-friendly.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with a range of tech features, including a Qi-compatible inductive charging station and a 14-speaker JBL audio system. The 9-inch touchscreen interface, while functional, felt small compared to newer competitors. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera was a standout feature, providing selectable front, side, or rear views for navigating challenging terrain.

The 2021 Lexus GX, however, lagged in tech offerings. While it included Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The infotainment system's graphics were outdated, and the interface was basic. However, the presence of analog controls for most functions was a practical touch, offering a straightforward user experience.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser came with Toyota Safety Sense P, which included features like a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also had 10 airbags, a tire-pressure monitoring system, and Trailer Sway Control, among other safety features. However, it had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.

Similarly, the 2021 Lexus GX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Despite these features, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in other Lexus and Toyota models, and it had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.