2021 Buick Envision vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2021 Buick Envision underwent a significant redesign, following two years of facelifts, to present a more premium crossover styling. This two-row compact crossover, positioned between the smaller Encore GX and the larger Enclave, was sold in China and North America. The Envision's new design was lower and wider, offering a more planted appearance on the street. It showcased a sculpted look, more so than its cousin, the Cadillac XT4, but not as sleek as the Acura RDX. The Envision was available in three trims: Preferred, Essence, and Avenir, with the Avenir trim offering upgraded exterior elements and a unique interior design. The Avenir grade featured a Black Ice Chrome mesh grille, LED taillamps, and 20-inch wheels, while the interior boasted leather-appointed seating and a head-up display. The Envision's cabin was driver-centric, with a protruding center stack angled toward the driver, though it suffered from an abundance of piano black plastic that attracted dust.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color, which eradicated almost all chrome from its exterior. Despite its modern touches, the GX's design remained reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002, with only the signature Lexus spindle grille and LED headlights distinguishing it as a newer model. Inside, the GX offered a high-quality cabin with smooth, refined materials, and a quiet ride, thanks to its V8 engine. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with the Black Line Special Edition based on the Premium trim. Despite its dated appearance, the GX's interior was comfortable, with physical controls and a tall seating position, though the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The GX's side-swinging tailgate also posed challenges for loading cargo.

The 2021 Buick Envision featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This was a downgrade from the previous model's 252 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite shedding 200 to 300 pounds, the Envision's performance was more about comfortable cruising than sporty driving. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available, and the Envision offered improved fuel efficiency, with the FWD model achieving 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. However, engine and road noise were noticeable, detracting from its premium feel.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivered 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. Despite its 5,126-pound curb weight, the GX managed a 7.8-second run to 60 mph and a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The GX's fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA estimate of 16 mpg combined. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System improved stability and off-road capability, though the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy.

The 2021 Buick Envision's redesign resulted in less interior space, with reduced headroom, legroom, and shoulder room in the front row, and less legroom and hip room in the rear. Cargo capacity was also reduced, with 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 53.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The driver-centric cockpit limited passenger access to controls, and forward visibility was challenging for shorter drivers. However, the Envision offered standard heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seats and physical controls. The Black Line Special Edition featured NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The GX's third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind it. The side-swinging tailgate made loading difficult, and the cargo space was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded.

The 2021 Buick Envision's tech offerings included a standard 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The driver information display was available in 8.0-inch and 4.2-inch sizes. Standard features included USB ports, dual-zone climate control, and a rearview camera. Available features included navigation, a surround-view camera, and wireless device charging.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system offered a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition. The GX also included a CD player, a WiFi hotspot, and available surround-view cameras. However, the stereo controls were awkwardly placed, and the system retained the outdated Remote Touch Interface.

The 2021 Buick Envision had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS. It featured standard safety equipment, including forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Avenir trim offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced park assist, but the Envision lacked advanced driver-assist systems like GM's Super Cruise.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with its older structure, lacked crash-test ratings. It included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The GX also had blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, it lacked more advanced safety technologies found in competitors.