2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade, particularly in its Calligraphy trim, presented a distinctive and upscale appearance. It featured a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting with puddle lamps, additional lower body trim, and exclusive 20-inch wheels. The interior was equally impressive, boasting upgraded detailing and a simulated suede headliner. The Calligraphy trim made the Palisade stand out, giving it a more luxurious feel compared to other models in the lineup. The interior, with its Beige over Navy Blue color scheme and premium Nappa leather, was a highlight, offering a level of luxury that belied its price point.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus RX showcased the brand's modern design aesthetic with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. The RX was available in five variants, each offering a different focus, from the base RX and RX Hybrid to the performance-oriented RX F Sport and the extended RXL and RXL Hybrid. The RX maintained its 2020 design updates, which included elongated headlights and a refined front end. The interior was well-appointed, even in the base model, with features like NuLuxe-trimmed seats and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. However, the center console design was considered dated, lacking the modern touch seen in some competitors.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. The Palisade featured multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport, with AWD models adding Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 21 mpg for AWD models, and the test vehicle achieved 21.1 mpg. The Palisade's suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive, though not necessarily sporty. It offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid and RXL Hybrid models combined a 3.5-liter V6 with three electric motors, producing 308 horsepower. The RX 350 FWD achieved 23 mpg combined, while AWD and RXL models saw a slight decrease in fuel efficiency. The RX Hybrid models offered better fuel economy, with up to 31 mpg in the city. The RX's suspension and handling improvements made it more dynamic, with the F Sport Handling package adding adaptive suspension and sportier features. The RX reached 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and functionality. It offered eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and could slide for easy access to the third row, which was more accommodating than most in its class. The Palisade offered generous cargo space, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be disabled if desired.

The 2021 Lexus RX provided a functional interior, seating five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL versions. Front and second-row seating was spacious, but the third row was tight. Cargo space was limited compared to traditional SUVs, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row in the two-row models and just 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row in the RXL. Folding the seats expanded cargo capacity to 58.5 cubic feet. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with 8-inch and 10.25-inch touchscreen displays. Both systems supported Bluetooth pairing for two smartphones, but only the 8-inch system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Additional features included wireless charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display. A surround-view camera system aided parking and maneuvering.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, and wireless charging. The infotainment system, while functional, was not the most user-friendly, with a touchpad controller that took up console space. The RX lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which might be a drawback for some buyers.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking as standard. It featured multiple lane-keeping systems and a rear occupant alert system. Higher trims offered a Blind View Monitor and Highway Drive Assist, which provided advanced adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Palisade received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for families.

The 2021 Lexus RX received the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, with Good marks in crashworthiness tests. The RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h received four out of five stars from NHTSA. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a suite of driver-assist technologies. While comprehensive, the RX's safety features lacked the hands-off capabilities found in some competitors.