2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX 460's styling was a testament to its longevity in the market. Retaining the same basic body shell from a decade ago, it had undergone several updates over the years, including the addition of Lexus' trademark spindle grille in 2014 and a textured insert in 2020. The 2021 model didn't see any new styling changes, but it did come with standard silver 18-inch wheels on the Premium trim level. Despite its age, the GX's tough, aggressive look remained distinctive and appealing to SUV shoppers. However, the interior felt dated, with wood trim that resembled molded plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. Standard leather upholstery was a plus, but the overall interior quality didn't meet modern luxury SUV standards.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade presented an elegant and striking exterior design. It featured distinctive lines and shapes, from its prominent grille to its sculpted wheel arches and pronounced taillights. The continuous strip of glass surfaces around the tailgate gave the impression of a floating rear roof, adding to its visual appeal. Inside, the Palisade was equally polished, with high-quality materials and finishes adorning every surface. The horizontally arrayed screen, beefy center console, and spacious seating in all three rows made it a comfortable and practical choice for families. The fit and finish were near-luxury levels, making the Palisade a worthy flagship in Hyundai's lineup.

The 2021 Lexus GX kept it simple with a single powertrain option: a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample grunt for acceleration (0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds), the GX's 5,130-pound weight made higher-speed maneuvers and braking more challenging. 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, low-range 4WD, and various driver aids like hill-descent control and Multi-Terrain Select. It also boasted a respectable 6,500-pound towing capacity.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, came with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine, combined with gasoline direct injection and dual variable valve timing, offered a balance of power and efficiency. The Palisade's EPA estimates were 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway/22 mpg combined for FWD models and 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway/21 mpg combined for AWD models. Weighing between 4,127 and 4,387 pounds, the Palisade handled nicely, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension and stabilizer bars. It could tow up to 5,000 pounds with trailer brakes, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with an upright dashboard and high center console that limited legroom. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position made it feel like driving a bus. However, the boxy profile provided excellent outward visibility. Storage space was limited, with small center-console bins and cupholders. The GX came standard with three rows of seating, but the third row was best reserved for children due to limited space and difficult access. Cargo space was also limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and functionality. The third row offered comfortable seating and easy access, while the second-row captain's chairs were spacious and comfortable. The front row featured ample storage, including two compartments in the center console and door panel bottle holders. Luggage space was generous, with 18.0 cubic feet behind the third row, 45.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 86.4 cubic feet with both rows folded flat. The Palisade also featured a compact shift-by-wire setup, intuitive controls, and a dual-panel sunroof on higher trims, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, with standard Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity but no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility. The infotainment system's graphics were outdated, and the touchscreen offered limited functions. However, Lexus included analog controls for most functions, providing a straightforward interface.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade was a tech leader. The standard display audio system on S and SEL models featured an 800 x 480 resolution screen, while the Limited and Calligraphy models had a 1920 x 720 color touchscreen with a 630-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system. The infotainment system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Palisade also featured multiple USB ports, a Qi wireless charging pad, and a 115-volt power outlet. Higher trims included a head-up display, digital instrument cluster, and Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system, offering remote engine start and vehicle monitoring.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 came with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. However, it lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive list of standard and available safety features. Passive safety included seven airbags, three-point seat belts, LATCH anchors, and more. Active safety features included anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added forward-looking parking sensors, ultrasonic rear occupant alert, and Highway Driving Assist. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a standout in its class.