2020 Lexus GX vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, redesigned in 2019, showcased a bolder and more angular appearance, enhancing its tough and durable reputation. The Adventure trim improved off-roading capabilities with a torque-vectoring AWD system, multiple driving modes, and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. The new TRD Off-Road trim for 2020 took it further with matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a TRD suspension setup, providing a terrific ride on various surfaces. The TRD Off-Road was distinguishable by its wheels, tires, and badges, and featured Lunar Rock gray paint with an extra-cost white roof, which hid dirt well. Inside, it had TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat, contrasting with some inexpensive-looking plastic.

The 2020 Lexus GX, introduced in 2002 and redesigned in 2010, received some new design tweaks, including the hourglass grille. Despite its decade-old design, the GX shared a platform with the Toyota 4Runner, maintaining its rugged capability. The cabin remained unchanged from a decade ago, with a large, chunky center console and big buttons. The GX was available in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery to a rear-seat entertainment system. The GX's age showed, but its rugged capability and long list of standard features made it a unique offering in the luxury SUV market.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid, a separate model, delivered 219 horsepower and up to 40 mpg in combined driving but was not available in the TRD Off-Road trim. The non-turbo, non-hybrid powertrain of the test vehicle felt energetic, especially in Sport mode, though a turbocharged engine would be preferable at high altitudes. The 8-speed automatic transmission generally performed well but occasionally struggled with gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system, multi-terrain select settings, and 8.6 inches of ground clearance, making it capable on various terrains. The test vehicle averaged 23.4 mpg, below the EPA estimate of 27 mpg.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. Despite its age, the V8 offered a swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's light steering was direct and responsive, and the self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth yet composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with various 4WD modes, adjustable suspension, and Downhill Assist Control. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was unimpressive, averaging 16.3 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy entry and exit, with a low and sporty driving position in an 8-way adjustable driver's seat. The front passenger seat lacked height adjustment but provided good thigh support. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery, which could trap sweat, but the Weather Package added heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat had generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB ports. Cargo space was 37.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 69.8 cubic feet with the seat folded down. The test vehicle also had a robust roof rack and an optional hands-free power liftgate.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs in the Premium and Luxury trims, with power-folding third-row seats standard in the Luxury trim. The captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row and a natural barrier between kids. However, getting into the third row was challenging for adults. With all rear seats folded, the GX offered 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space, less than some competitors. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window/hatch was a useful feature.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4's technology was user-friendly and useful. Depending on the trim, it featured a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display with some glare issues. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and multiple connected services with generous trial periods. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was free for 3 months or 2GB of data. The TRD Off-Road's infotainment system had superb voice-recognition technology and an optional Technology Package with wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a decade-old layout but was simpler to use than modern Lexus systems. It lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but had large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. The simplicity of the system was a tradeoff for missing modern features.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring advanced driving assist safety features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, radar adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, front and rear parking assist with automated braking, and blind spot assist with rear cross-traffic alert. It also included a free 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also had blind-spot monitoring and an available surround-view camera. The GX's great visibility, with massive windows and mirrors, added to its safety.