2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to hold its own with a rugged design that incorporated the brand's signature hourglass grille. This model, part of the second generation introduced in 2010, received some design tweaks but retained its classic SUV appeal. The GX's interior, however, showed its age with a decade-old design featuring a large, chunky center console and a recessed infotainment screen. While this might not appeal to those seeking modern luxury, it worked for those who appreciated a more utilitarian approach. The GX was available in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery to advanced navigation systems.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban presented a more modern, albeit polarizing, exterior design. The front-end design borrowed elements from the Camaro, resulting in a combination of small headlights and large grilles. Inside, the Suburban maintained a familiar layout with controls in intuitive locations, although the button shifter design was a departure from the norm. The Suburban offered a range of trims, from the base LS to the luxurious High Country, each adding features like leather upholstery, adaptive suspension, and advanced driver assistance systems. The High Country trim, in particular, aimed to compete with luxury SUVs, though it fell short in terms of soft-touch materials.

The 2020 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD, provided a robust driving experience. The GX's steering was light yet responsive, and its self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its 4WD system and various chassis controls. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius, making it surprisingly maneuverable for city driving. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban offered a choice of three engines: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel with 277 horsepower. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with RWD standard and 4WD available. The diesel engine provided excellent torque and pickup, making it suitable for both city and highway driving. The Suburban's independent rear suspension improved ride quality, though it still exhibited some truck-like handling characteristics. It could tow up to 8,300 pounds with the Max Trailering package.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered limited cargo space, with 64.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. The second-row captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row, but overall space was less than some competitors. The GX featured a side-opening rear hatch, which was unique but not particularly advantageous.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering a massive 144.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Even with the second-row seats in use, it provided 93.8 cubic feet of space. Passengers enjoyed ample head- and legroom, and the second-row captain's chairs were spacious. The control layout was similar to GM's pickup trucks, though the button shifter and power-sliding center console were less intuitive.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its simplicity and true touchscreen interface were appreciated by those who preferred straightforward controls.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen with GM's intuitive infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available head-up display and rear entertainment system added to its tech appeal.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera, enhancing its safety profile.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance, and rear parking sensors. Optional features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring were available, though some competitors offered these as standard. Unique options included a rear-view camera mirror and the Safety Alert Seat.