2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 Lexus GX

2021 Volvo XC90
2021 Volvo XC90
$49,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Lexus GX
2021 Lexus GX
$53,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Volvo XC90
$49,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Lexus GX
$53,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$49,000

MSRP

$53,450

Average price

$36,186

Average price

$43,976

Listings

434

Listings

356

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

5.3 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Premium interior materials
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Cramped third row
  • Sluggish performance
  • No USB-C ports
Pros
  • Powerful engine
  • Premium interior materials
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor handling
  • Outdated technology

2021 Volvo XC90 Reviews Summary

Volvo may be known for sensible station wagons, but the XC90 SUV is the Swedish automaker’s de facto flagship. The current generation debuted design features, technology, and powertrains that have since found their way into most other Volvo models. Several years into the current-generation model’s lifecycle, the XC90 is no longer a trendsetter, but remains Volvo’s contender in the competitive midsize luxury SUV segment, with the automaker’s typical emphasis on safety features.

The current-generation XC90 launched for the 2016 model year, so most competitors—including the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class—have been updated or redesigned since then. The Cadillac XT6 and Lincoln Aviator didn’t even exist when this generation of XC90 launched.

A redesigned version is expected to arrive soon, so changes to the 2021 XC90 are minimal. All 2021 Volvo models are now limited to 112 mph for safety reasons and get Care Key, which lets owners limit the top speed before loaning the car out to a friend or family member. The XC90 also gets a handful of newly standard tech features, and some small cosmetic changes.

Volvo offers the XC90 in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with three powertrain options: T5 and T6 gasoline engines, and the T8 plug-in hybrid. Our test car was a range-topping T8 Recharge Inscription, combining the top Inscription trim level with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has the highest output of the three.

2021 Lexus GX Reviews Summary

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.

No video found
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Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 250 hp I4

Engine

4.6L 301 hp V8

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

250 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

301 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

21

MPG City

15

MPG Highway

30

MPG Highway

19
2021 Volvo XC90
2021 Volvo XC90
$49,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Lexus GX
2021 Lexus GX
$53,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Volvo XC90
$49,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Lexus GX
$53,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$49,000
$53,450
Average price
$36,186
$43,976
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.7
4.6
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

5.3 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Premium interior materials
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Cramped third row
  • Sluggish performance
  • No USB-C ports
Pros
  • Powerful engine
  • Premium interior materials
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor handling
  • Outdated technology
Summary

Volvo may be known for sensible station wagons, but the XC90 SUV is the Swedish automaker’s de facto flagship. The current generation debuted design features, technology, and powertrains that have since found their way into most other Volvo models. Several years into the current-generation model’s lifecycle, the XC90 is no longer a trendsetter, but remains Volvo’s contender in the competitive midsize luxury SUV segment, with the automaker’s typical emphasis on safety features.

The current-generation XC90 launched for the 2016 model year, so most competitors—including the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class—have been updated or redesigned since then. The Cadillac XT6 and Lincoln Aviator didn’t even exist when this generation of XC90 launched.

A redesigned version is expected to arrive soon, so changes to the 2021 XC90 are minimal. All 2021 Volvo models are now limited to 112 mph for safety reasons and get Care Key, which lets owners limit the top speed before loaning the car out to a friend or family member. The XC90 also gets a handful of newly standard tech features, and some small cosmetic changes.

Volvo offers the XC90 in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with three powertrain options: T5 and T6 gasoline engines, and the T8 plug-in hybrid. Our test car was a range-topping T8 Recharge Inscription, combining the top Inscription trim level with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has the highest output of the three.

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.

Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 250 hp I4
4.6L 301 hp V8
Drive Train
FWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
7
7
Horsepower
250 hp @ 5500 rpm
301 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
21
15
MPG Highway
30
19
Look and feel
2021 Volvo XC90
9/10
2021 Lexus GX
7/10

The 2021 Volvo XC90 transformed Volvo's traditionally conservative styling by adding more character, which was apparent in its softer lines, increased chrome, and distinguishing "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. While still retaining its identifiable Volvo boxy silhouette and rectangular grille, the XC90's subtle yet effective design changes included chrome embellishments and the availability of large alloy wheels, escalating to 21 inches on the Inscription trim. The mid-level R-Design, featuring a new gloss-black grille surround for the 2021 model, opted for a sporty vibe with 20-inch wheels, whereas the base Momentum trim received 19-inch wheels with a fresh design.

Built on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC90 shared its underpinnings with other "90" series models like the S90 sedan and V90 wagon, as well as smaller "60" series models. The interior epitomized Swedish minimalism with high-quality materials and a clean, deliberate layout. The use of matte-finish wood trim, the option for wool upholstery, and luxurious touches like an Orrefors crystal shifter highlighted the sophisticated yet restrained design ethos.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX 460, with its decade-old body shell that had accumulated updates over the years, sported Lexus’ signature spindle grille, most recently updated in 2020 alongside new triple-beam LED headlights. The 2021 model continued with this design, adding standard silver 18-inch wheels on the Premium trim, with 19-inch wheels as an option. Despite not originally being styled around the spindle grille, the GX maintained a coherent and strong visual presence with its tough, aggressive stance, appealing to traditional SUV buyers.

However, the GX’s interior lagged behind modern luxury standards. It featured abundant plastic-y wood trim that failed to exude the quality expected from a luxury SUV, though it did come standard with leather upholstery. The cabin design, unfortunately, reflected the GX’s age with an upright dashboard, compromised legroom due to a high center console, and a bus-like driving position with a uniquely angled steering wheel.

Performance
2021 Volvo XC90
7/10
2021 Lexus GX
6/10

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options built around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 provided a turbocharged 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 utilized both supercharging and turbocharging to deliver 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine—now branded as Recharge—further enhanced the T6’s setup with electric assist, delivering a combined output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft.

The T5 came with front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Meanwhile, both the T6 and T8 were standardly equipped with all-wheel drive. Despite the hybrid’s robust power output, the small engine sometimes struggled to balance power and efficiency, particularly during electric-only acceleration where it often required gasoline engine assistance even at low speeds.

Despite these powertrain intricacies, the XC90 excelled in traditional luxury attributes. It featured an optional air-suspension system that provided excellent ride quality and managed body roll effectively, ensuring a comfortable and quiet cabin environment. Additionally, the XC90 boasted a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds for most models, with the base FWD T5 rated at 4,000 pounds.

In comparison, the 2021 Lexus GX 460 kept things straightforward with a singular 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This configuration allowed the GX to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds. Despite its power, the GX's hefty 5,130 pounds became noticeable at higher speeds, necessitating careful planning for merging and overtaking maneuvers.

The GX’s performance underscored its old-school SUV characteristics, which were not favorable in terms of ride quality and handling. The braking required more foresight, and the body-on-frame construction led to significant body roll and low grip in corners. Modern SUVs generally exhibit car-like handling, which the GX decidedly did not, but it offered superior off-road capabilities with features like a Torsen center differential, low-range gearing, several driver aids, and an available Off-Road Package with an array of rugged enhancements.

The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, with stability control incorporating a trailer-sway control function, slightly below the Lincoln Aviator but competitive within its segment.

Form and function
2021 Volvo XC90
6/10
2021 Lexus GX
5/10

Inside, the 2021 Volvo XC90 offered a choice between six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. Both configurations provided average headroom and legroom, making the third row more suitable for children than adults. The second and third-row seats felt firm and somewhat lacking in support. An optional panoramic moonroof helped enhance the cabin’s spacious feel.

Front seats in the Inscription trim had 10-way adjustability with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, but the XC90 notably lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Storage options up front were limited, especially with a shallow center console bin. Cargo capacity was modest for the segment at 11.2 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 34.1 and 64.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, respectively. A hands-free power tailgate added convenience.

Conversely, the 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics revealed its age. The high center console limited legroom, and the awkward steering wheel angle combined with a tall seating position gave a bus-like driving impression. The standard satin-finish wood-trimmed steering wheel was heated but inefficiently so due to the wood segment.

Visibility in the GX was commendable due to its boxy profile and low side glass, although forward visibility was hampered by its tall hood. Storage solutions included a small center-console bin, undersized cupholders, and compact door bottle holders throughout. The GX featured numerous buttons for essential functions, eschewing touchscreens for a more primitive but practical interface.

The GX offered three rows and standard seven-passenger seating, with an option for second-row captain’s chairs. However, the third row, while available with power-folding on certain trims, was best left for children given its cramped nature and difficult access. Cargo space with the third row up was almost non-existent, highlighting that the GX might be better considered as a two-row SUV for regular use. With the second and third rows folded, cargo space measured 64.7 cubic feet, still less than the Discovery’s 73.0 cubic feet.

Technology
2021 Volvo XC90
8/10
2021 Lexus GX
4/10

The 2021 Volvo XC90 came equipped with the Sensus infotainment system, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. It also included four USB ports and optional upgrades like a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system and a head-up display. The intuitive, portrait-oriented touchscreen facilitated easy navigation through its menus with minimal reliance on physical buttons, aligning with the XC90’s minimalist interior design. Some menus were harder to read due to the typeface, and the new wireless charging pad was too small to accommodate most phones.

The 2021 Lexus GX lagged technologically due to its dated design. It featured Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity, but lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offered two USB ports per front and second row but none for the third row. An optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was available for audiophiles. The primitive infotainment system had graphics reminiscent of the 1990s, with a secondary digital clock-style display for time and temperature, and analog controls for simplicity.

Safety
2021 Volvo XC90
9/10
2021 Lexus GX
6/10

The 2021 Volvo XC90 earned the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS for the non-hybrid models, scoring “Good” ratings in crash tests, a “Superior” rating for front-crash prevention in vehicle-to-vehicle testing, and “Advanced” in vehicle-to-pedestrian testing. It also garnered a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Volvo’s comprehensive standard safety package included lane-keep assist, a driver-attention monitor, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering for enhanced safety.

The 2021 Lexus GX included the Lexus Safety System+ as standard, with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, high beams, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, it lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and non-luxury Toyota models, like traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist. Neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS had published crash-test ratings for the GX.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Volvo XC90 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 Lexus GX scores 5.3 out of 10. Given the higher rating and the array of modern features, the 2021 Volvo XC90 is the better choice for most consumers. The XC90 excels with its contemporary design, superior safety ratings, and advanced technology, making it a more well-rounded option in the luxury SUV segment.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Volvo XC90 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 Lexus GX scores 5.3 out of 10. Given the higher rating and the array of modern features, the 2021 Volvo XC90 is the better choice for most consumers. The XC90 excels with its contemporary design, superior safety ratings, and advanced technology, making it a more well-rounded option in the luxury SUV segment.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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