2020 Lexus RX vs 2019 Honda CR-V

The 2019 Honda CR-V was a versatile choice for consumers, offering four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. It featured a standard front-wheel drive with an optional all-wheel drive, except in Canada where AWD was standard on all trims except the base model. Prices ranged from $27,690 to $39,090, plus destination charges. The CR-V's design was generally appealing, with 17-inch aluminum wheels on the base model and 18-inch wheels on higher trims. The interior was noted for its quality materials and construction, providing a sense of value despite the presence of hard plastics.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal in a competitive market. The exterior updates included standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlamps. The grille was redesigned to align with other Lexus models, and a new paint colour, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. Inside, the RX maintained its reputation for luxury with standard heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a variety of interior colour and material options. The RX's cabin was well-appointed, though the centre stack design was beginning to show its age.

The 2019 Honda CR-V in Canada was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it offered a choice between FWD and AWD. The engine was responsive and provided satisfying acceleration, though it had some issues in cold weather and with battery reliability. The CR-V's driving dynamics were impressive, with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link double wishbone rear suspension, delivering a composed ride and confident handling. The AWD system was designed for extra traction in slippery conditions, not off-roading.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. The RX 350 L variant had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower. A hybrid version, the RX 450h, combined the V6 with an electric motor for a total of 308 horsepower. The RX's performance was smooth, with adaptive variable suspension on F Sport models enhancing agility. Fuel efficiency was a highlight for the hybrid models, with the RX 450h achieving 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2019 Honda CR-V offered ample interior space, with a comfortable driver's seat featuring a 12-way power adjustment on all trims except the base LX. Heated front seats were standard in Canada, with an optional heated steering wheel on higher trims. The rear seats provided plenty of room for passengers, with air vents and USB ports to keep them comfortable. Cargo space was generous, with 1,110 litres behind the rear seats and 2,146 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was spacious in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row RX-L was less accommodating, with the third row best suited for small children. The RX's cargo area was smaller than some competitors, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350 L and 450h L had even less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on most models, adding convenience.

The 2019 Honda CR-V featured a range of infotainment and driver-assistance technologies. The infotainment system included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it lacked a tuning knob and had some usability issues. Voice activation was available but often required specific prompts. The CR-V also offered a premium audio system on the Touring trim and a navigation system as standard on the same trim.

The 2020 Lexus RX improved its infotainment system by moving the display closer to the driver and offering a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Despite these changes, the system remained challenging to navigate. However, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity provided a workaround. The RX also featured Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and various music and navigation apps. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2019 Honda CR-V came with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features, on all trims except the base LX FWD. This included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CR-V received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, though its headlight performance was rated as Acceptable.

The 2020 Lexus RX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2020 update added daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, and road-sign assist. The RX received good safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.