2020 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, following its 2019 redesign, presented a bolder and more angular appearance, enhancing its reputation for durability with a tougher look. The TRD Off-Road trim, introduced in 2020, elevated the RAV4's off-roading capabilities with features like matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a specialized TRD suspension. The interior of the TRD Off-Road was equipped with TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat, contrasting quality materials with some less expensive-looking plastics. The RAV4's trim levels ranged from the base LE to the top-tier Limited, with the TRD Off-Road positioned near the top, offering a blend of ruggedness and comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX maintained its familial design with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior, similar to other Lexus models. The NX 300 F Sport variant added sporty elements like a honeycomb grille and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the NX F Sport featured quilted NuLuxe sport seats and a choice of interior color schemes, including the bold Circuit Red. The interior was well-crafted, with a familiar gauge cluster and a somewhat outdated center stack design. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX prioritized comfort and luxury, offering a smooth and quiet ride typical of Lexus vehicles.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid variant offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, though it wasn't available in the TRD Off-Road trim. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system, multiple terrain settings, and 8.6 inches of ground clearance, making it capable on various surfaces. The 8-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally hesitated in gear selection. The RAV4 averaged 23.4 mpg, slightly below the EPA estimate, but its off-road capabilities and urban performance were commendable.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with the F Sport variant featuring Active Sound Control for enhanced engine noise. The AWD system could transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear axle, but lacked individual-wheel torque vectoring. Fuel economy was decent, with the AWD model achieving 24 mpg combined. The NX offered a comfortable and engaging driving experience, though its steering feedback was limited.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy entry and exit, with a low and sporty driving position in the 8-way adjustable driver's seat. The rear seat provided ample legroom for adults and children, with air conditioning vents and USB ports for convenience. Interior storage was generous, with a dashboard shelf and a cargo capacity of 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The RAV4 also featured a robust roof rack and an optional hands-free power liftgate.

The 2021 Lexus NX boasted a comfortable and upscale interior, with spacious front seats and adequate legroom in the second row. The 60/40 split-folding rear seat enhanced versatility, though cargo space was limited to 17.7 cubic feet behind the seats and 54.6 cubic feet with them folded. The NX's cabin was quiet, with minimal road and wind noise, and offered features like a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and optional power-folding rear seats.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4's technology was user-friendly, with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The TRD Off-Road's 8-inch system included a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and optional upgrades like navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The voice-recognition technology was particularly impressive, and the optional Technology Package added features like wireless smartphone charging and a 360-degree surround-view camera.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch standard touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Despite its comprehensive features, the system was less user-friendly, relying on a touchpad for navigation. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot, with options for a moonroof and a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system. The Lexus Enform Remote app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance, though headlight performance varied. A free 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services was included.

The 2021 Lexus NX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and collision notification, with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.