2021 Lexus GX vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with updates like the spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights introduced in previous years. 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 fit well with its tough, aggressive look. 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 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged roots, sharing underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma pickup. It was designed for off-road enthusiasts, with a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper. Inside, the 4Runner's design was reminiscent of the late 2000s, with a dash layout that felt dated. The 4Runner offered various trims, including the SR5, Trail Special Edition, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Limited, each with unique features. The Trail Special Edition, for example, included 17-inch dark gray alloy wheels, a Yakima LoadWarrior cargo basket, and a sliding rear cargo deck. The TRD Sport and Limited trims were more road-oriented, while the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro focused on off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Lexus GX featured 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. Despite its power, the GX's 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, with a Torsen center differential, standard 4WD with a low range, and several driver aids. It had a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with a 4.0-liter V6 engine delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The engine felt underwhelming in most driving situations, but it was reliable. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with significant body roll. However, off-road, the suspension absorbed obstacles effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models included Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, which was more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics showed 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. The dashboard shape provided excellent outward visibility, but forward visibility was limited by the tall hood. The GX came standard with three rows, seating seven, but the third row was best for children. Cargo space was limited, with 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the two-row version, with 47.2 cubic feet behind the second row. The three-row model had slightly less space, with 88.8 cubic feet maximum and 46.3 cubic feet behind the second row. The third row was optional on select trims, increasing seating capacity to seven. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window. The cabin packaging was not as efficient as newer SUVs, but it was not cramped.

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. The infotainment system had outdated graphics and limited functions. However, analog controls were available for most functions, providing a refreshing alternative to screen-centric interfaces.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It also included Bluetooth connectivity, Satellite Radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system was not the most advanced, it covered the basics and relied on tactile controls, which were helpful for off-road driving. Navigation, HD radio, and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system were available as upgrades.

The 2021 Lexus GX included the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, with 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 standard, but the GX lacked some features available in other Lexus models, such as traffic-sign recognition.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, with forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars in NHTSA frontal and side-impact testing and three stars for rollover testing.