2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal both inside and out. These updates were more than just minor tweaks; they 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's car lineup, and a new Moonbeam Beige Metallic paint was introduced. The rear saw a fresh design 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. Leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel were standard, with wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim available. The F Sport packages added unique features like a distinct steering wheel, shift knob, and 20-inch wheels. The interior, while not overly ornate, was durable enough for family use, though the centre stack's design was beginning to show its age.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander was anything but boring, standing out among midsize SUVs with its distinctive design. Its front end, though less dramatic than the Sienna minivan, made a statement with wide headlights, a long hood, and a bold trapezoidal grille. The side profile featured a character line reminiscent of the Supra sports car, while the rear taillights echoed Lexus designs. The Highlander appeared longer and lower than its predecessor without sacrificing size. The new XSE trim added a sportier look with a restyled front end, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a more aggressive fascia. The Limited trim, just below the Platinum, offered chrome roof rails and accents, giving it an upscale appearance. Inside, the Highlander leaned towards luxury, with near-flawless fit and finish, tan leather seats, and dark brown trim. The wood details, though not real, added to the premium feel. While sportiness was a secondary focus, the Highlander excelled in comfort and convenience, essential for family vehicles.

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, complemented by an electronically controlled CVT. The RX hybrid models featured motors for both front and rear wheels, adding 67 horsepower. The RX was not particularly athletic, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered sufficient power for most drivers. 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 F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels for improved agility. Various drive modes were available, including Sport S+ for F Sport models, enhancing the driving experience. The RX provided a smooth and connected drive, with excellent insulation and structure for a quiet cabin.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. While not a performance powerhouse, the Highlander offered smooth and predictable operation, suitable for family use. It compared well with competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride, offering similar horsepower and torque. The Highlander Hybrid, covered separately, provided an alternative for those seeking efficiency. The Highlander exhibited some lumbering through corners, typical for a three-row crossover, but the XSE trim offered a sportier suspension with higher-rated springs, retuned shock absorbers, and a rear stabilizer bar for added driving excitement.

The 2020 Lexus RX interior, while not as minimalist or stylish as some German luxury SUVs, was functional and comfortable. 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 the two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility, though the A-pillar could obstruct views of curbs and corners. The cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350 L and 450h L also offered less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on most models, standard on the 450h L.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander excelled in passenger comfort and cargo space. The front featured large shelves for storage, with a wireless charging pad standard on XSE and above. Second-row passengers enjoyed ample legroom, with available captain's chairs that could slide to adjust space for the third row. The third row could accommodate adults if the second row was adjusted, though it was a tight fit. The rear-seat climate control vents were ceiling-mounted, which could be inconvenient. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,150 litres with the third row folded, and 2,245 litres with both rows down, offering ample storage for most needs.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020. The standard 8.0-inch display and optional 12.3-inch touchscreen were moved closer to the driver. Despite this, the system remained challenging to navigate, with limited customization options. However, standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity provided alternatives. The RX also offered Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other app compatibility. The touchscreen was an improvement over previous models, and the centre console touchpad was more responsive. The RX included six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch screen available on the Platinum trim. Both systems were user-friendly, though navigation was only available from the Limited grade. While the system handled specific addresses well, it struggled with points of interest. Standard Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity provided alternatives. The 12.3-inch screen was bright and responsive, though some apps were limited in display size. A JBL audio system was standard from the Limited grade, offering good sound quality.

The 2020 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional features included daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX also offered a three-year subscription to Lexus Enform Safety Connect and a 10-year subscription to Enform Service Connect, though connectivity issues were noted during testing. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, consistent with its generational model run.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intersection support. This system could engage emergency braking when detecting oncoming vehicles at intersections. Other features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-tracing assist, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring was standard, along with LED headlights and available LED fog lights. The Highlander received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.