2021 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with minor updates over the years, including the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The Premium trim level came with standard silver 18-inch wheels, while 19-inch wheels were optional. Despite its age, the GX's styling was coherent, with a massive grille that was distinctive and appealing to SUV shoppers. However, the interior did not meet modern luxury standards, with wood trim that felt like plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. Leather upholstery was standard, with semi-aniline leather available on the Luxury trim.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser, in its final year of the current form, offered a Heritage Edition trim to celebrate its 65th anniversary. The standard model, however, featured Magnetic Gray paint and Terra semi-aniline leather upholstery. Its exterior resembled a first-generation Toyota Highlander with oversized headlights and taillights, and a chrome-heavy design. Inside, the Land Cruiser mixed Toyota parts-bin switchgear with high-quality materials, including a traditional hand-operated parking brake and a CD player. The interior felt like a time capsule, with plush materials and a design reminiscent of mid-2000s Lexus models.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, but its 5,130-pound weight was noticeable at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The ride quality was typical of a body-on-frame vehicle, with low grip and body roll 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. The optional Off-Road Package added features like a transmission cooler and Multi-Terrain Select. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a 381-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 engine, shared with the Toyota Tundra, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It delivered 401 pound-feet of torque, with 90% available at 2,200 rpm, providing unexpected thrust. The Land Cruiser's off-road prowess was supported by a Torsen limited-slip differential, mud-and-snow tires, and a full-size spare tire. It included features like Active Traction Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System ensured maximum wheel articulation. On pavement, the Land Cruiser offered a refined ride, though it required more steering effort when parking. It had a towing capacity of 8,100 pounds.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with an upright dashboard and high center console limiting legroom. The steering wheel was positioned at an odd angle, and the tall seating position felt bus-like. Visibility was generally good, but forward visibility was limited by the tall hood. Storage space was limited, with small center-console storage and cupholders. The GX offered three rows of seating, with a power-folding third row available on higher trims. However, accessing the third row was challenging, and cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser's interior was swanky, with plush leather upholstery and supportive seats. The front seats were heated and ventilated, and the steering wheel was heated. The second-row bench seat was roomy and included heated cushions. The Land Cruiser featured a four-zone automatic climate control system with 28 air vents. The third-row seat could accommodate adults if the second row was adjusted, but leg support was lacking. Cargo space was 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 41.4 cubic feet with the third row folded. The maximum cargo space was 82.8 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It offered Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity, with two USB ports for each of the first two rows. The infotainment system was outdated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. However, analog controls were available for most functions, providing a straightforward interface.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, but it lacked swipe and scroll functionality. It used Toyota Entune technology, similar to that in a Corolla, and did not offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The voice-recognition system was basic, and Bluetooth could not pair two devices simultaneously. The dashboard featured large buttons and knobs for easy control. The rear-seat entertainment system was dated, with 11.6-inch displays that were not touchscreens. A 14-speaker JBL Synthesis audio system was standard.

The 2021 Lexus GX did not have crash-test ratings from NHTSA or IIHS. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but the GX lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser also lacked crash-test ratings. It featured Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services were standard. However, the Land Cruiser did not offer more advanced driving assistance systems, such as stop-and-go adaptive cruise control or automated lane-keeping.