2021 Lexus RX vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, with its bold and angular redesign from the previous year, continued to stand out in the compact SUV segment. Known for its durability, the RAV4 offered a rugged appearance that matched its off-road capabilities. The TRD Off-Road trim, introduced in 2020, featured distinctive matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a specialized suspension, enhancing its performance on various terrains. Inside, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road combined practicality with comfort, offering TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a mix of quality materials, though some plastic elements appeared less refined.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus RX showcased the brand's modern design aesthetic with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. The RX was available in five variants, including the performance-focused RX F Sport and the three-row RXL models. The 2021 model retained the elongated headlights and refined front-end design introduced in 2020. The RX's interior was luxurious, featuring perforated leather upholstery and a range of available upgrades. However, the center console design and infotainment system were noted for their dated appearance, lacking the modern touch seen in some competitors.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with 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 was not available in the TRD Off-Road trim. The 8-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally hesitated in 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 adept at handling challenging trails. Despite its off-road focus, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road was practical for daily urban use, though its fuel economy fell short of EPA estimates.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were 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 RX Hybrid models combined a V6 engine with three electric motors, producing 308 horsepower and offering AWD as standard. The RX's suspension and handling improvements made it more dynamic, though some body roll was noted at higher speeds. The RX F-Sport added adaptive variable suspension and sportier features, enhancing its performance. The RX's acceleration was respectable, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy ingress and egress, with a sporty driving position and an 8-way adjustable driver's seat. The rear seat provided ample legroom for adults and children, with air conditioning vents and USB ports for passenger comfort. The RAV4's interior storage was generous, and its cargo space measured 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. A robust roof rack and optional hands-free power liftgate further enhanced its utility.

The 2021 Lexus RX provided a functional interior with seating for five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL variants. Front and second-row seating offered ample space, though the third row was cramped. The RX's cargo capacity was limited compared to traditional SUVs, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row RX offered even less cargo space. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The TRD Off-Road trim included an 8-inch display with menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls. Optional upgrades included navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The TRD Off-Road's voice-recognition technology was notably effective, and the optional Technology Package added wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch screen, wireless charging, and a Mark Levinson sound system. The infotainment system's touchpad controller was less intuitive than competitors, and the RX lacked wireless smartphone integration. Steering-wheel controls were user-friendly, but the overall system felt dated compared to newer luxury vehicles.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring advanced safety systems like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert. The RAV4 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though only models with full LED headlights received this designation. Toyota also offered a free 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with Good marks in crashworthiness tests. The RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h received four out of five stars from NHTSA. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a range of driver-assist technologies. However, the RX lacked the advanced hands-off driving systems found in some competitors.