2020 Lexus RX vs 2020 Toyota Sienna

The 2020 Toyota Sienna, part of its third generation, had been around since 2011 and received updates in 2018. Despite these updates, the 2020 model still felt somewhat dated, with occasional upscale touches. The front doors emitted a hollow "thud" when closed, indicating a lack of refinement in fit and finish. The instrument panel appeared to be from Toyota's 2010 parts bin, though its simplicity made the controls user-friendly. The Sienna offered a range of trims, from the well-equipped base L to the luxurious Limited Premium, with features like a power rear liftgate, leather upholstery, and a JBL premium audio system. The Nightshade Edition added a touch of style with dark accents and wheels.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus RX received a refresh that enhanced its styling and interior features, keeping it ahead of its Toyota counterparts. The exterior boasted standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and a redesigned grille, with options for triple-beam LED headlights and new paint colors. The cabin was well-appointed, offering various interior color and material combinations, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added performance-focused features like a unique steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels. While the center stack's design was aging, the RX maintained a balance of luxury and practicality, suitable for family life.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered stout acceleration in normal mode, with a Sport mode for enhanced throttle and shift response. The Sienna's towing capacity was 3,500 pounds, and it provided the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) for trims beyond the base L. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) version delivered the best fuel economy at 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined, while AWD versions returned slightly lower figures. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly decent for a minivan, though its steering response was twitchy at higher speeds.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 models shared a 3.5-liter V6 engine, achieving 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350L models had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower. A hybrid version, the RX 450h, combined the V6 with an electric motor for 308 horsepower. The RX 450hL, an elongated hybrid, offered 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX's fuel economy varied, with the RX 350 achieving 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h AWD excelled at 30 mpg combined. The RX F Sport models featured adaptive variable suspension and sportier handling, with various drive modes available for customization.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo space, offering 150 cubic feet, surpassing competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. However, accessing this space required removing the second-row seats, which could be cumbersome. The third row folded seamlessly into the floor, but getting into the backseat was challenging. Toyota offered mobility access features, such as the Auto Access Seat, making it easier for those needing mobility conversions.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was comfortable for four adults in the two-row model, but the three-row RX-L's third row was cramped, suitable only for small children. The cabin was spacious in the two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and decent visibility. However, the RX's cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor compromising space. The RX 350L and 450hL had even less cargo space compared to competitors like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models and standard on RX-L versions.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay support. Standard tech included Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and a WiFi hotspot. The Limited trim added navigation and a JBL 10-speaker audio system. The Driver Easy Speak intercom system allowed the driver to communicate with rear passengers without raising their voice.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system, though criticized, saw improvements with a touchscreen moved closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay integration alleviated many issues. The RX also supported Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and other apps, enhancing functionality. The center console touchpad system improved in responsiveness. The RX added two USB ports, totaling six, and offered a 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system as an upgrade.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P), including lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and dynamic cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was optional on lower trims and standard on XLE and Limited trims. The Sienna earned five stars from the NHTSA and top ratings from the IIHS for crash safety and driver-assistance features.

The 2020 Lexus RX featured Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The RX added daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect subscriptions were included. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, consistent with its generational model run.