2021 Lexus GX vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Volvo XC90 showcased a pinnacle of modern Volvo design, proving that a large SUV could be as aesthetically pleasing as a sleek sedan. The R-Design trim featured blacked-out, honeycomb grille treatments, black window surrounds, mirrors, and a more aggressive chin spoiler, all complemented by bright 22-inch rims. The "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and tall, thin, curving LED taillights were distinctive Volvo elements. The interior, with its Thunder Grey Metallic paint and beige-leather and aluminum accents, exuded luxury. The seats, available in leather, aluminum, or carbon-fiber trim, offered exceptional comfort and support, with power-adjustable thigh extensions and optional massage features.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX 460 retained its decade-old body shell with minor updates, including the spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The Premium trim level came with standard silver 18-inch wheels, while 19-inch wheels were also available. Despite its aggressive and distinctive look, the GX's interior felt outdated. The wood trim resembled molded plastic, and there was an abundance of actual plastic. However, standard leather upholstery and semi-aniline leather on the Luxury trim level added a touch of luxury.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which felt insufficient for the vehicle's size. The T6, with a supercharger added, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, providing better performance. The Polestar tune upgrade boosted these numbers to 330 hp and 325 lb-ft. However, the XC90's acceleration was not linear, and the engine noise was unrefined. Fuel economy was also unimpressive, with the T6 AWD rated at 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined. The T8 plug-in hybrid offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque but had limited electric range and added weight, resulting in a combined fuel economy of 27 mpg.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, but the GX's 5,130-pound weight affected performance at higher speeds. Merging and overtaking required careful planning, and braking was less responsive. The GX's body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride quality, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, with a Torsen center differential, low-range 4WD, and various off-road driver aids. The optional Off-Road Package added features like a transmission cooler, fuel-tank protector, and multi-view camera system.

The 2020 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system was faster and more responsive than previous models, with all climate controls integrated into the touchscreen. The system was well-organized, but some safety features were buried in menus. The XC90 offered seven seats as standard, with an integrated booster cushion for young children. Six-seat configurations were available on certain trims. The first and second rows provided generous legroom and comfort, while the third row was best suited for small children. Cargo space was up to 85.7 cubic feet with the last two rows folded.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460's interior ergonomics felt dated, with an upright dashboard and high center console limiting legroom. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position were reminiscent of driving a bus. The dashboard shape and boxy profile provided excellent outward visibility, but forward visibility was limited by the tall hood. Storage space was limited, with small center-console bins and cupholders. The GX came standard with three rows of seating, but the third row was best reserved for children. Cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came standard with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The R-Design trim featured a Bowers & Wilkins stereo with 19 speakers and 1,400 watts of power. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was high-resolution and easy to navigate, though onboard apps were slow to load. The instrument panel could display the map between analog-style dials but lacked major reconfiguration options.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 was light on tech features, with standard Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity but no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility. The standard infotainment system had outdated graphics and limited functions. However, the GX included analog controls for most functions, providing a refreshing alternative to touchscreen-centric interfaces.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though its headlight test lowered its rating to a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, driver-attention monitor, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic-sign recognition. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its use of high-strength steels and advanced safety systems.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard, but the GX lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models.