2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2020 Lexus RX underwent a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior to maintain its stylish edge 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 Lexus's car lineup, and a new paint option, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. The rear received a fresh look with dual exhausts, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, complemented by an available hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX offered a well-appointed cabin with standard heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The interior featured leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and optional wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport packages added unique styling elements and 20-inch wheels, while the centre stack, though functional, appeared dated compared to industry trends.

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, presented a fresh design unburdened by legacy constraints. It successfully integrated design elements from the G80 sedan, featuring a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and the Genesis flying "G" badge. The "Quad Lamp" LED headlights and taillights established a signature look for the brand. The GV80 offered a choice of 19-inch, 20-inch, or 22-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, with excellent paint and trim quality. Inside, the GV80 boasted a sleek and uncluttered dashboard, emphasizing width and spaciousness. The centre console featured a bridge-like structure with minimal controls, thanks to shift-by-wire technology. A 14.5-inch high-definition LCD display topped the dash, while the cabin showcased authentic materials like real wood, metal, and leather, creating a luxurious interior.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The RX 350 L variant offered slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with a CVT transmission. The RX 450h L shared the same setup. The RX's performance was not sporty, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds, but it provided a smooth and connected driving experience. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with the RX 350 achieving 10.8 L/100 km combined, while the RX 450h excelled at 7.9 L/100 km combined. The RX offered various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and EV mode for hybrids, with F Sport models adding Sport S+ and Customize modes.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80 featured a 2,955 mm wheelbase and independent multi-link suspension, with the 3.5T models equipped with electronically controlled suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential. The 2.5T engine provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T offered a smoother and more powerful experience, enhanced by active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was rated at 10.5 L/100 km combined, while the 3.5T was rated at 11.8 L/100 km combined.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior, while not as minimalist or stylish as some German competitors, provided comfort and functionality. The two-row RX accommodated four adults comfortably, but the three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children. The cabin offered good width and height, with comfortable front seats and decent visibility, though the A-pillar could obstruct views. The RX's cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor affecting space. The RX 350 L and 450h L also had less cargo space compared to competitors like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on certain models.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and design. The centre console and stack combined technology, design, and ergonomics, with a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The GV80's second row was comfortable and roomy, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on 3.5T models, increasing passenger capacity to seven, with power-folding seats. The GV80 offered luxury features like three-row climate control and power rear-door closure.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system, though criticized, saw improvements in 2020. The standard 8.0-inch display and available 12.3-inch touchscreen were moved closer to the driver. The system remained challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity provided a solution. The RX also offered Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other integrations. The centre console touchpad system improved in responsiveness. The RX featured six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's infotainment system was a highlight, featuring a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen with user-configurable split-screen displays. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with cloud connectivity and over-the-air updates. Android users could use a digital key function, while Genesis Connected Services offered features like remote start and emergency assistance. A head-up display was standard on certain models, and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster was available. The GV80's audio system included a standard nine-speaker setup, with an optional 21-speaker Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround system.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2020 enhancements added features like daytime bicyclist detection and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured 10 airbags, including a front-centre airbag, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and safety features. The GV80 offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning, highway-driving assist, and Remote Smart Parking Assist for automated parking.