2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as a new entrant in the SUV market, was not constrained by a legacy of design expectations, allowing it to innovate freely. It successfully integrated design elements from the G80 sedan, featuring a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive trapezoidal grille with a diamond mesh. The SUV's exterior was marked by its elegant two-box design, highlighted by Quad Lamp LED headlights and taillights, and large aluminum-alloy wheels. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a sophisticated and spacious environment.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX 460 retained much of its decade-old design, with only minor updates over the years. Its exterior featured the Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, maintaining 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 materials. Despite its shortcomings, the GX offered standard semi-aniline leather and a distinctive, coherent design that appealed to traditional SUV enthusiasts.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's 3.5T models featured electronically controlled suspension with road preview and an electronic limited-slip differential, enhancing ride quality and off-road capability. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T was rated at 12.9 L/100 km city and 10.4 highway.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Despite its powerful engine, the GX's 2,349 kg weight affected its performance, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride quality compared to unibody SUVs. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, featuring a Torsen centre differential, low-range 4WD, and Multi-Terrain Select with various drive modes. It offered a towing capacity of 2,948 kg and a ground clearance of 20.5 cm.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and ergonomics. The centre console featured a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The second row provided ample space for two adults, with power rear seats and window shades available. The 3.5T models included a third row, increasing passenger capacity to seven, with power-folding seats for added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior reflected its age, with an upright dashboard and high centre console limiting legroom. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position contributed to a bus-like driving feel. Despite these drawbacks, the GX offered excellent outward visibility and easy-to-use analog controls for climate and seat functions. The GX came standard with three rows, seating seven, but accessing the third row was challenging due to the second-row seats. Cargo space was limited, with only 1,833 litres available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a state-of-the-art infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and user-configurable split-screen displays. Android users could utilize a digital key function, and the GV80 included five years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The standard infotainment system had outdated graphics and limited functionality, with a separate display for time and temperature. However, the GX offered analog controls for most functions, providing a straightforward interface. A 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was standard, but the overall tech experience was less advanced compared to the GV80.

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 came equipped with 10 airbags, a vehicle stability management system, and a suite of driver assistance features, such as blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The GV80 also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. It included the Lexus Safety System+ as standard, featuring a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist.