2021 GMC Yukon vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's positioning as a "premium grade" brand, offering a rugged yet refined aesthetic. It was available in various trims, including the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, with the Denali trim being particularly popular among buyers who valued substance over brand prestige. The Yukon Denali, with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels, provided an upscale cabin experience. The exterior, especially in the Denali Ultimate package, featured a striking Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels, making it more upscale than its Chevrolet counterpart.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with minor updates like the spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's styling was coherent despite its age, offering a tough and aggressive look. However, the interior did not match modern luxury standards, with wood trim that felt like plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. The GX's interior ergonomics were outdated, with limited legroom and a bus-like driving position. Despite these drawbacks, the GX offered excellent outward visibility and a straightforward array of buttons and knobs for controls.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine provided robust acceleration, though it was not fuel-efficient, averaging 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop. The Yukon boasted an independent rear suspension and an available Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, enhancing ride quality and handling. The Active Response 4WD system, with its electronic limited-slip differential, improved cornering and traction. The Yukon Denali could tow up to 3,629 kilograms, though this was less than some competitors.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The GX's performance was reminiscent of older SUVs, with adequate grunt at low speeds but requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The ride quality was typical of a body-on-frame vehicle, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, featuring a Torsen centre differential, low-range 4WD, and Multi-Terrain Select. It had a maximum towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from an independent rear suspension, significantly improving passenger and cargo space. The Denali trim featured leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sliding console. The second-row seats were heated and could slide and fold flat, while the third-row seat offered improved comfort and thigh support. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres available with seats folded.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior reflected its age, with limited legroom and a high seating position. The dashboard design provided excellent visibility, but forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was best for children and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 1,833 litres available with seats folded, and minimal space with the third row in use.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 14-speaker Bose audio system and a Rear Seat Media system with dual 12.6-inch displays. The Yukon also offered a 15-inch head-up display and multiple camera views for improved manoeuvrability.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It had a basic infotainment system with outdated graphics and limited functionality. However, it included analog controls for ease of use. The GX came with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system but lacked modern tech features found in other luxury SUVs.

The 2021 GMC Yukon was equipped with numerous advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon's substantial weight provided a sense of security.

The 2021 Lexus GX featured the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It also had blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera. However, it lacked some safety features found in other Lexus models, such as traffic-sign recognition.