2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax, based on the 2015 model, retained its 2017 design updates, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. By 2021, the Premier trim was discontinued, leaving LS and LT trims. The LS featured 16-inch wheels, keyless entry, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LT added features like heated mirrors, remote start, and upgraded seating. Styling packages and driver assistance options were available for the LT.

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased modern Lexus design with a large grille and angular headlamps. It was available in five variants, including the RX, RX F Sport, and hybrids. The RX retained its 2020 design updates, including elongated headlights. Standard features included 18-inch wheels and LED lights, with available upgrades like 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. The F Sport package added performance and styling enhancements. The interior offered luxury features, though the center console design was considered dated.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 138 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, available in FWD or AWD. While adequate for city driving, the engine struggled at highway speeds and was noisy. The Trax had a firm ride, with a tight turning radius for city maneuverability. Competitors like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 offered more comfortable and enjoyable rides.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 with three electric motors, delivering 308 horsepower. The RX offered a comfortable ride with tuning adjustments for improved dynamics. The F Sport Handling package added adaptive suspension and sport seats. The RX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, with a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax provided ample headroom and legroom, though rear seats lacked comfort for long trips. It featured multiple storage trays and a low cupholder placement. Cargo space was 18.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The front passenger seat folded flat for larger items. No power liftgate options were available.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered functional interior space, seating five in two-row models and up to seven in three-row RXL versions. Front and second-row seats were spacious, while the third row was tight. Cargo space in the RX was 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The RXL offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 23 cubic feet behind the second, and 58.5 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax featured a 7-inch touchscreen with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. It included two USB ports, voice control, and an available WiFi hotspot.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a nine-speaker sound system. It supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch screen, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The infotainment system had a touchpad controller, though it was less refined than competitors. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not available.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received a five-star NHTSA rating but lacked advanced safety features. Standard equipment included airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear parking sensors.

The 2021 Lexus RX earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick and a four-star NHTSA rating. It featured 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The RX had LATCH connectors for child seats.