2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its rugged and aggressive exterior styling, a testament to its decade-long presence in the market. Despite its age, the GX's design remained coherent, with the massive spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights adding to its distinctive look. However, the interior did not quite match the modern luxury standards, with wood trim that felt like plastic and an abundance of actual plastic materials. While leather upholstery was standard, the overall interior ambiance felt dated compared to contemporary luxury SUVs.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a more modern and upscale feel, especially in the Calligraphy trim. The exterior featured a redesigned front end with new running lights and a reworked grille, giving each trim level a unique character. Inside, the Santa Fe impressed with its upmarket materials, including a suede-like headliner and premium Nappa leather in the Calligraphy trim. The interior exuded quality, with a high-tech air of sophistication thanks to features like a panoramic glass sunroof and a bridge-style center console.

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 the V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, the GX's hefty 5,130-pound weight was noticeable at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride quality, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, featuring a Torsen center differential, a standard 4WD system with a low range, and several driver aids for off-road adventures.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains, including a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 1.6-liter hybrid with a total output of 226 hp. The higher-level Limited and Calligraphy trims boasted a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe's driving experience was significantly improved for 2021, with added structural rigidity, better braking, and refined handling. The turbocharged engine was both quick and fuel-efficient, with a combined rating of 24 mpg for AWD models.

The interior of the 2021 Lexus GX showed its age with limited legroom due to the upright dashboard and high center console. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position contributed to a bus-like driving feel. While outward visibility was excellent, forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was best suited for children and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, lacking a third row, provided ample passenger room and comfort. The Calligraphy trim elevated the interior with luxurious materials and features like heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The rear seat offered generous legroom and comfort, with sliding capabilities for increased cargo space. The Santa Fe's cargo area provided 36.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 72.1 cubic feet with them folded, making it practical for family trips.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The standard infotainment system felt outdated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. However, analog controls were available for most functions, providing a straightforward interface. A 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was optional, but the overall tech offering was limited for a luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was packed with technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a surround-view camera system, and an 8.5-inch head-up display. The infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the basic 8-inch screen, while the 10.25-inch screen included upgraded voice recognition and Blue Link connected services. Blue Link provided a range of features, including remote engine start and climate control adjustments. The Santa Fe also offered Digital Key and Remote Smart Parking Assist, adding to its tech-savvy appeal.

The 2021 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ as standard, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist. The GX had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS for crash tests.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted an impressive array of safety features, particularly in the Calligraphy trim. It included forward-collision warning with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning assistance, Safe Exit Assist, and a rear-occupant alert system. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist added to its safety credentials. The Santa Fe earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from IIHS when equipped with LED projector headlights, showcasing its strong crashworthiness and front crash-prevention technology.