2020 Lexus GX vs 2020 Toyota Sienna

The 2020 Toyota Sienna, part of its third generation, had been around since the 2011 model year. Despite a 2018 update that incorporated newer infotainment tech and minor changes, the 2020 Sienna still felt dated. The front doors emitted a hollow "thud" when slammed, indicating a lack of attention to fit and finish. The instrument panel also seemed outdated, resembling something from Toyota's 2010 parts bin. However, this simplicity made the controls easy to use. The Sienna was available in multiple trims, from the base L to the Limited Premium, each offering various features like 17-inch alloy wheels, three-zone climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus GX, introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, also showed its age despite some design tweaks. The updated GX featured the hourglass grille design common in the Lexus lineup, which it wore better than the larger LX. The cabin, however, remained largely unchanged from a decade ago, with a chunky center console and big buttons. The GX was available in three trims: the 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury. Even the base 460 trim came well-equipped with features like 10-way power front seats, leather upholstery, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Sienna offered stout acceleration in normal Drive mode, with a Sport mode available for more responsive throttle and shift response. It also had a manual mode, which was rarely used but could be helpful for its 3,500-pound towing capacity. The Sienna was primarily front-wheel drive, but all trims except the base L had an all-wheel-drive option, available only in a 7-passenger configuration. The front-wheel-drive Sienna returned 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined, while the all-wheel-drive version returned 18/24/20. The Sienna handled surprisingly well for a minivan, with a low center of gravity and broad base, though its twitchy steering response at higher speeds required constant attention.

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 4-wheel drive. While modern V6 and turbocharged 4-cylinder engines could exceed these specs, the V8 offered an unmistakable swell of power in real-world driving. The GX had light but direct and responsive steering, and the self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth yet composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with various 4WD modes and a suspension height adjustment feature. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, returning 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo space, offering 150 cubic feet, more than competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. However, accessing this space required removing the second-row seats, which was easier with captain’s chairs than a bench seat. The third row folded seamlessly into the floor, but getting into the backseat could be challenging. Toyota also offered mobility access features like the Auto Access Seat, making it easier for those needing mobility conversions.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space with all rear seats folded, less than competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Land Rover Discovery. The GX had a unique side-opening rear hatch, which some might find less convenient than a traditional liftgate. However, it also featured a separately opening rear window/hatch, allowing easy access to the cargo area without opening the entire hatch. The second-row captain’s chairs provided a small access way to the third row, but getting into the third row was still a chore for adults.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna's base L trim came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay. Other standard tech features included Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and a WiFi hotspot with a 6-month trial. Higher trims like the Limited added navigation and a JBL 10-speaker premium audio system. The Sienna also featured Driver Easy Speak, an intercom system that broadcasted the driver’s voice to the rear speakers.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it was a true touchscreen, flanked by large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, making it simpler to use than modern Lexus systems. Despite its outdated interface, the GX's system was straightforward and user-friendly.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) suite, including lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, dynamic cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring was optional on lower trims but standard on XLE and Limited trims. The Sienna earned five stars in NHTSA crash testing and top scores in many IIHS tests, with its driver-assistance features earning a Superior rating.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured standard blind-spot monitoring and an available surround-view camera. The GX offered excellent visibility with large windows and mirrors, enhancing overall safety.