2021 GMC Yukon vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a full-size SUV that balanced ruggedness with refinement, positioning itself between Chevrolet and Cadillac in the General Motors lineup. Available in various trims, including the new AT4 designed for off-road adventures, the Yukon offered a blend of substance and style. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and unique interior stitching. Despite its high price, the Yukon Denali Ultimate, with its intricate grillework and upscale features, provided a premium feel that justified its cost.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX offered a more compact and sportier design. Available in NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and NX 300h hybrid versions, the NX retained a familiar Lexus appearance with sharp design lines and a sculpted exterior. The F Sport variant added sporty elements like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch wheels. Inside, the NX F Sport featured quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional Circuit Red interior color schemes. While the interior fit and finish were excellent, the design of the center stack and some outdated elements detracted from its overall appeal.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine. This engine provided robust acceleration and a satisfying V8 burble, but fuel economy was not its strong suit, averaging 14.4 mpg on a testing loop. The Yukon’s new independent rear suspension and available Four-Corner Air Ride suspension improved ride quality and handling. The Active Response 4WD system, with its electronic limited-slip differential, enhanced cornering performance and traction. However, the Yukon Denali’s towing capacity was slightly lower than its predecessor, maxing out at 8,400 pounds with 2WD.

The 2021 Lexus NX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate but not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds, with the F Sport variant featuring Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note. Fuel economy for the NX was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The available adaptive suspension system, based on the LC 500 sport coupe, provided a smooth and comfortable ride, though the steering lacked feedback. The NX had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and an electronically limited top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly improving passenger and cargo space. The front seats, though comfortable, lacked a massage function and had hard edges that could cause discomfort. The second-row seats slid and folded flat, enhancing comfort and cargo room, while the third-row seats provided actual thigh support for adults. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 122.9 cubic feet of space in the standard Yukon and 144.7 cubic feet in the Denali XL, rivaling minivan capacities.

The 2021 Lexus NX, while stylish and comfortable, offered less cargo space. The front seats provided ample room, and the second-row seats comfortably accommodated two adults. The NX’s cargo capacity was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second-row seats and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Despite the smaller cargo space, the NX maintained a quiet cabin, free from road and wind noise. The power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats added convenience.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, especially with the Ultimate Package, offered a comprehensive infotainment system. The standard 10.2-inch touchscreen included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and over-the-air updates. Upgrades included wireless device charging, a navigation system, a 14-speaker Bose audio system, and a Rear Seat Media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. The 15-inch color head-up display, rear camera mirror, and multiple surround-view camera angles enhanced the Yukon’s technology suite, though the Bose audio system fell short of expectations.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Standard features encompassed keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions. The Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system was available on higher trims, providing a superior audio experience compared to the standard eight-speaker system.

The 2021 GMC Yukon came equipped with numerous advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). Standard features included forward collision warning, daytime pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. Higher trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. The Yukon’s ADAS operated smoothly, making it a reliable choice for safety.

The 2021 Lexus NX included Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 as standard, featuring a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional safety features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation for safety.