2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal both inside and out. These updates were not minor tweaks but substantial changes that allowed the RX to stand out in a competitive market. Despite its age, the RX maintained a stylish edge over its Toyota counterparts. The exterior boasted standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlamps. The grille was redesigned to align with Lexus cars, and a new paint option, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. The rear featured a new shape with dual exhausts, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, complemented by an available hands-free tailgate.

Inside, the RX continued to impress with its well-appointed cabin. Standard features included heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated exterior mirrors. Various interior colour and material combinations were available, with leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard. The F Sport packages added unique features like a distinctive steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels. The interior exuded luxury with leather-wrapped surfaces, while the centre stack, though functional, appeared dated compared to industry trends.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade, particularly in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It featured unique 20-inch alloy wheels and upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner. The Palisade's styling was unconventional, drawing mixed reactions, but it undeniably appeared more expensive than its price suggested. Inside, the Calligraphy trim offered a cabin that outshone its midsize three-row SUV competitors, with quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather and a suede headliner, making it a genuine bargain at its sticker price.

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 recommended premium fuel. The RX 450h L shared the same setup, with a 165-horsepower electric motor and a 37-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The RX hybrid models featured an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) and additional electric motors for enhanced performance.

The RX was not a performance-oriented vehicle, taking around 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered a smooth driving experience with standard AWD and adaptive variable suspension on F Sport models. 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 Hyundai Palisade featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. It offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, Snow, and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade achieved a fuel efficiency of 11.1 L/100 km combined, matching its predicted performance. The Palisade's firmer suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive without sacrificing comfort. It was undemanding in typical driving scenarios, with ample power and easy maneuverability. The Palisade's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2020 Lexus RX interior, while not as minimalist or stylish as its German counterparts, offered comfort and functionality. The two-row RX model accommodated four adults comfortably, but the three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children or pets. The cabin was spacious in its two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility, though the A-pillar could impede sightlines. The RX's cargo area was smaller than its rivals, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350 L and 450h L also had less cargo space compared to competitors, with a hands-free liftgate available on certain models.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space, seating, and accessibility. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim offered a plush experience with eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and separate climate controls for third-row passengers. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and support, with easy access to the third row. The Palisade's third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class. In-cabin storage was abundant, with a spacious front centre console and door panels. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,297 litres with the seats folded, and 2,447 litres with the second row down. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, with customizable settings.

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. Despite this, the system remained challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity provided a workaround. The RX also offered Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other integrations. The centre console touchpad system improved in responsiveness, and the RX featured six USB ports. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Both allowed simultaneous Bluetooth pairing, with the 8-inch setup offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included SiriusXM, HD Radio, navigation, Blue Link services, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, Quiet Mode, and an available head-up display. The surround-view camera system aided parking and maneuvering.

The 2020 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The 2020 enhancements included daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, 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 subscriptions were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping systems. A rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist were also included. The Palisade's Highway Driving Assist provided smooth adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring protection in case of a collision.