2021 Lexus GX vs 2022 Kia Sportage

Most modern SUVs are really car-based crossovers—lifted station wagons, or minivans without the sliding doors. That’s not the case with the 2021 Lexus GX 460.

Like the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the GX is a creature that time forgot. It’s one of the last SUVs with truck-like body-on-frame construction and true off-road capability. That’s because the GX is actually a rebadged Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (a smaller version of the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser not sold in the United States), and is related to the Toyota 4Runner. It’s also genuinely old: the current generation dates back to the 2010 model year, and Lexus has kept it in production with some updates of styling and tech over the years.

That makes the GX a fairly odd proposition on the new-car market. It has the off-road capability, not as a lifestyle statement, but because that’s what was still expected of SUVs when it was launched. The GX sits between the RX and LX in Lexus’ lineup but has little direct competition. Its only real rival is the much newer Land Rover Discovery.

For the 2021 model year, the GX gets some minor updates, including a new Premium Plus Package, and acoustic front side glass. Lexus continues to offer only the GX 460 model, with a single powertrain option, standard four-wheel drive (4WD), and three trim levels: base, Premium, and Luxury. Our test car was the midlevel Premium version.

The 2022 Kia Sportage is a stylish, sophisticated, safe, and–with its available turbocharged engine–speedy SUV. Kia hasn't redesigned it since 2017, but that doesn't mean you should cross it off of your shopping list. Even the technology is up-to-date.

Compact in size, the 2022 Sportage comes in LX, Nightfall Edition, EX, and SX Turbo trim levels with front- or all-wheel drive. Nightfall Edition trim is new, replacing the S version for 2022. Additionally, a new LX Value Edition Package installs numerous features from higher trims combined with trendy dark gray 18-inch wheels. The Sportage EX gains a standard panoramic sunroof for 2022.

Pricing ranges from $24,090 to $33,750, plus a destination charge of $1,175. Our test vehicle for this review was an SX Turbo with AWD, a cargo mat, carpeted floor mats, and a tow hitch. The sticker price came to $37,100, including destination.