2022 Porsche Macan vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with minor updates over the years, including the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. Despite its age, the GX's styling remained coherent, with a massive grille that was distinctive yet aggressive, appealing to SUV enthusiasts. However, the interior did not match the modern luxury SUV standards, with wood trim resembling plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. The semi-aniline leather was a standard feature, but the overall interior feel was somewhat outdated.

In contrast, the 2022 Porsche Macan, introduced in 2015, maintained its original design with regular updates. The 2022 model featured a refreshed styling, larger standard wheels, and a new centre console with haptic touch controls. The Macan S test vehicle, with its Volcano Gray paint and 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, exuded a sporty and athletic look. Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, with a left-side ignition switch, a large tachometer, and a flat dashboard. The red leather, gloss black trim, and silver accents contributed to a luxurious and sporty cabin ambiance.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, the GX's weight of 2,349 kilograms affected its performance at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride quality, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capabilities, featuring a Torsen centre differential, a standard 4WD system with a low range, and various off-road drive modes. It offered a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms and a respectable ground clearance of 20.5 centimetres.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of engines, with the Macan S featuring a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6, delivering 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. The Macan's seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission and fully variable AWD system enhanced its performance. The Macan S boasted improved steering and suspension, larger wheels, and adaptive damping for a refined ride. The test vehicle's optional performance features, including Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus and Surface Coated Brakes, contributed to its exceptional handling and braking performance. The Macan S delivered a sporty driving experience, with precise steering and impressive grip on challenging roads.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with an upright dashboard and high centre console limiting legroom. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position added to the bus-like driving feel. While the dashboard shape and boxy profile provided excellent outward visibility, forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. The centre-console storage was limited, and the third-row seats were best suited for children. The GX offered 1,833 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, but the third row significantly reduced cargo capacity when in use.

The 2022 Porsche Macan, despite its sporty nature, offered comfort for the driver and front passenger, with optional 14-way power-adjustable seats. The rear seats were cramped, but entry and exit were easy, and the seats were supportive. The new steering wheel design, inspired by the 911, felt thin and uncomfortable over long drives. The redesigned centre console with haptic touch controls looked modern but required attention away from the road. Cargo space measured 488 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the rear seats folded.

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. However, Lexus included analog controls for most functions, providing a straightforward interface. The 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was a standard feature.

The 2022 Porsche Macan featured a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, navigation, and connected services. The user experience was intuitive, though the voice recognition system was less reliable than competitors. The Macan offered stereo volume and tuning controls below the screen, with separate climate controls, reducing the need for screen interaction while driving.

The 2021 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including a pre-collision system, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but the GX lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus models.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included lane-departure warning and a reversing camera as standard. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Macan's parking assistance features, such as a surround-view camera and Park Assist, were notable, but the model lacked more advanced driving assistance technologies.