Lexus GX vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2026 Lexus GX offered a range of trim levels, including the Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+. The "+" signified additional features. Prices varied from $68,335 to $84,800, factoring in the destination charge. The GX 550 Overtrail, without the extra features, was equipped with rock rails, roof-rack crossbars, a head-up display, and trailering equipment, among other things. The power sunroof was removed, reducing the MSRP by $1,100, resulting in a final price of $77,939. The Nori Green Pearl color, one of the few non-neutral options, complemented the rugged design of the GX 550 Overtrail, which featured gray wheel arch cladding, simulated skid plates, and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Overtrail model showcased a utilitarian yet quality-focused cabin with tan artificial leather and advanced digital displays.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar appearance with minor styling tweaks, resembling a conventional gas-powered car more than an EV. The model continued from the 2023 version, offering a single body style that balanced between a large hatchback and a subcompact SUV. The RS model added gloss black trim for a slight visual enhancement. Inside, the Bolt underwent a more significant transformation, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The gear selector was relocated to the steering column, freeing up center console space. Despite the hard plastic surfaces, the cabin provided adequate comfort with padded touchpoints. The RS trim offered Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching, while the rear seating area remained basic with hard plastics.

The 2026 Lexus GX was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, full-time 4WD, and a locking center differential. The Overtrail model enhanced off-road capabilities with an electronic locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select settings, and a low-speed cruise control system. It rode on 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires and had an adaptive variable suspension with a one-inch lift. The GX excelled in challenging conditions, with its locking center diff and wheel articulation proving effective. On-road, the adaptive suspension provided a smooth ride, though the vehicle's weight and drag coefficient affected fuel efficiency, achieving 17 mpg combined according to the EPA.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery, reducing costs and rare earth mineral usage. Its motor, sourced from the Chevy Equinox EV, produced 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in the low seven-second range. The Bolt's acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, with responsive pedal inputs. One-pedal driving was available, though it required adjustment for smoother low-speed maneuvers. The ride was firm but not overly harsh, and the Bolt handled curvy roads well due to its low center of gravity. The EPA estimated a range of 262 miles on a full charge, with improved charging speed allowing a 10% to 80% recharge in 25 minutes.

The 2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail required some effort to enter, especially for shorter individuals, but offered comfortable power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. The Luxury trim provided real leather and massaging front seats. The Overtrail lacked a third-row seat, offering more cargo space with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum of 90.5 cubic feet. Storage space was adequate but not exceptional, with small door trays and a center console. The high load height and protruding bumper were practical for outdoor activities but could soil clothing during loading.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt had an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants, though taller drivers desired more steering wheel extension. The rear seats provided good headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor benefiting center-seat passengers. Cargo capacity was 16.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, with a large bin underneath and a flat-folding rear seatback. While lacking a frunk, the Bolt offered ample storage for personal items, including a large bin with dividers, a deep center armrest bin, and additional dashboard pockets.

The 2026 Lexus GX featured a 12.3-inch digital driver display with configurable data panels for off-roading and trailering information. A 14-inch touchscreen housed the Lexus Interface infotainment system, which was user-friendly but had limited simultaneous display capabilities. The system included complimentary trial subscriptions to connected services, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The GX 550 Overtrail also had a panoramic-view monitor and multi-terrain monitor, though the view activation button was poorly placed.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt came with an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, requiring Bluetooth pairing for personal music. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was intuitive, with logical menus and quick responses. The Bolt's navigation system assisted in finding charging stations and preconditioning the battery for optimal charging rates. Vehicle-to-load charging was also available for backup power.

The 2026 Lexus GX included a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems under the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 package, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Additional features included blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The Proactive Driving Assist system provided subtle braking and steering inputs, though it could be uncomfortable. Lane-centering assist required manual overrides in curves, and adaptive cruise control braking was not always smooth. Safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were unavailable at the time of writing.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not yet published, but it was expected to perform well based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and traffic-sign recognition. GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system was available for an additional cost, offering advanced highway driving capabilities.