2021 Honda CR-V vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its rugged and aggressive exterior styling, a testament to its long-standing design lineage. Despite its decade-old body shell, the GX featured a massive spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, which gave it a distinctive look that appealed to SUV enthusiasts. However, the interior did not match the modern luxury standards expected from a vehicle in its class. The wood trim felt more like molded plastic, and the abundance of actual plastic detracted from the overall luxury feel. While leather upholstery was standard, the interior design felt outdated compared to its competitors.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V's design was more about blending in than standing out. Its styling was similar to many other compact crossovers, with few distinguishing features. The CR-V offered a range of colors, though most were variations of gray, black, and white, with vibrant options limited to higher trims. Inside, the CR-V provided a modern look with angular seat designs and a choice of cloth or leather upholstery, depending on the trim. While not the most distinctive, the CR-V's design was functional and practical, catering to those who prioritize utility over aesthetics.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While it offered robust off-road capabilities with features like a Torsen center differential and a low-range 4WD system, its on-road performance was less impressive. The GX's hefty weight of 5,130 pounds made acceleration and braking feel sluggish, and its body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride quality. Despite its traditional SUV charm, the GX struggled to match the driving dynamics of more modern SUVs.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, equipped with a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, provided smooth and steady acceleration. Its continuously variable transmission (CVT) offered a predictable driving experience, though it lacked the engagement of conventional automatic transmissions found in some competitors. The CR-V's handling and ride quality were decent, with a unitized body structure and a suspension setup common in its class. While not a performance standout, the CR-V delivered a reliable and comfortable driving experience suitable for everyday use.

The interior of the 2021 Lexus GX reflected its age, with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel position. The dashboard design, however, offered excellent outward visibility, especially useful in parking and off-road situations. The GX came standard with three rows of seating, but the third row was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded, making it less practical for carrying large loads.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in interior space and practicality, offering 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The CR-V's tailgate options varied by trim, with higher trims offering power and hands-free operation. While roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim, the CR-V's interior was designed to comfortably accommodate five passengers and their gear, making it a versatile choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Its infotainment system felt outdated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. However, the GX did offer analog controls for ease of use. The available 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was a highlight, but overall, the tech offerings were limited for a luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V offered a more modern tech experience. Most trims featured a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were plentiful, and the Touring trim included a wireless phone charger. The CR-V's tech features were more comprehensive and user-friendly, catering to tech-savvy consumers.

The 2021 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ as standard, including features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. The Honda Sensing system, standard across all trims, included a suite of advanced safety features like forward collision warning and lane keeping assist. The CR-V's commitment to safety made it a standout choice in its segment.