2021 Lexus RX vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was emblematic of the brand's styling cues. It featured a large grille, angular headlamps, and a shapely body with a floating roof. Inside, the RX offered sumptuous seating with perforated leather upholstery, although the center console was criticized for its dated appearance. The RX was available in five variants, including the performance-focused RX F Sport and the extended-body RXL models, which offered a third row of seating. Despite updates in 2020, the RX maintained its elongated headlights and revised front end, which aimed to address previous criticisms.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 inherited some styling elements from other Genesis models but maintained a unique appearance. It combined quad LED strips in the headlights and taillights with a large shield-shaped grille and a sloping roofline, giving it a fastback-like silhouette. The Sport Prestige model added character with unique styling features, including 21-inch wheels and a dark chrome finish. Inside, the GV70's elliptical-themed interior was inspired by an airplane wing, with a minimalistic design and a rotary gear selector. The GV70 offered a variety of interior color options and luxurious materials, although base models featured leatherette seats.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 engine with three electric motors, producing 308 horsepower. The RX offered a comfortable ride with tuning adjustments for improved dynamics, although it wasn't as sporty as some competitors. The RX F Sport model added adaptive variable suspension and other performance enhancements. The RX achieved 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain, with a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbo-four with 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV70 featured a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, emphasizing its sporty character. The Sport+ drive mode enhanced throttle response and transmission behavior, but the chassis lacked the sharpness of some competitors. The GV70 excelled in highway cruising but had a firm ride with 21-inch wheels.

The 2021 Lexus RX provided functional interior space, with the two-row models seating five and the three-row RXL models accommodating six or seven passengers. Front and second-row seating offered ample space, while the third row was tight. Cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The three-row version offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row and 58.5 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered mid-pack interior space for its segment, with adequate legroom and good rear-seat visibility. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet with rear seats in place and 56.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The interior design compromised storage space, with a slim center console and thin door pockets. The Sport Prestige model featured heavily bolstered front seats with heating, ventilation, massage, and posture-assist functions. Rear-seat passengers had their own climate controls.

The 2021 Lexus RX came with standard technology, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system, and wireless charging. The infotainment system was functional but not the most user-friendly, with a Remote Touch controller that took up console space. The RX lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12-inch head-up display. The infotainment system had a tile-based layout and a glass rotary controller. The GV70 offered a digital-key feature, a fingerprint scanner, and a radar-based rear-seat monitor. Genesis Connected Services included remote camera activation and other features.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with Good marks on crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA rated the RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h with four out of five stars overall. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a suite of driver-assist technologies. The RX lacked hands-off piloting-like software found in some competitors.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came with standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality. The GV70 had eight airbags, including a front-center airbag.