2021 GMC Yukon vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's "premium grade" positioning, offering a rugged yet refined aesthetic that set it apart from its siblings in the General Motors family. The redesigned Yukon, available in various trims including the off-road-oriented AT4 and the upscale Denali, was a full-size SUV that combined truck-based durability with luxury features. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels, creating an upscale cabin experience. The Yukon Denali Ultimate, with its Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels, exuded a more sophisticated appearance than its Chevrolet counterpart, the Tahoe High Country, thanks to its intricate grillework and chrome accents.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus RX maintained its modern and sporty design, with sharp character lines and angular features that gave it an aggressive stance in the midsize luxury crossover segment. The RX offered a variety of trims, including the performance-oriented F Sport, which added sporty elements like 20-inch wheels and a unique front fascia. The interior of the RX continued this theme, with F Sport models featuring specific badging and sporty trim options. However, despite its sporty appearance, the RX's interior comfort was somewhat compromised, with seats that lacked cushioning and lumbar support. The RX's design, while eye-catching, was more about style than substance, with some ergonomic challenges in the cabin layout.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered a range of engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a powerful 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination provided robust acceleration and a satisfying V8 burble, though fuel efficiency was not its strong suit. The Yukon Denali's Active Response 4WD system, with its Autotrac two-speed transfer case and electronic limited-slip differential, enhanced its cornering performance and traction. Despite its size, the Yukon was capable and responsive, though not particularly fun to drive. It could tow up to 3,629 kilograms, though this was less than some competitors.

The 2022 Lexus RX, on the other hand, was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower, with the hybrid RX 450h offering a combined output of 308 hp. Despite its F Sport designation, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty dynamics and a V6 engine that sounded more like a four-cylinder. The RX's drive modes, including Sport and Sport+, offered little noticeable difference in driving dynamics. However, the RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections with ease. Fuel efficiency was a highlight for the RX, particularly in the hybrid model, which offered impressive consumption ratings.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new 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 for added convenience. The second-row seats were heated and could slide and collapse for improved cargo room, while the third-row seat offered better comfort and thigh support. The Yukon Denali provided ample cargo space, with up to 3,480 litres available with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered a comfortable cabin for four adults, with a snug fit for five. The RX's cargo space was limited, particularly in the three-row L models, which offered only 210 litres with all seats upright. The RX's interior featured thoughtful touches like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the load-in height was high due to the sporty bumper design.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali came equipped with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The Rear Seat Media system, with dual 12.6-inch displays, provided entertainment for passengers, though it required some setup for streaming content. The Yukon also featured a 15-inch head-up display and multiple camera views for improved maneuverability.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available. The infotainment system, while responsive, was hindered by its positioning and the hypersensitive touchpad. The RX offered a range of tech features, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, and a Mark Levinson audio system. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options, though the infotainment system's usability was a drawback.

The 2021 GMC Yukon was equipped with a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. The Yukon's ADAS operated smoothly, providing a subtle yet effective driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus RX came standard with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though it missed the top-tier designation due to its headlights. The RX received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with strong performance in side crash tests.