2021 Lexus GX vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX was available in three versions: the NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid, with the review focusing on the gasoline models, NX 300 and 300 F Sport. The NX carried the familial Lexus design, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior, resembling the smaller UX and larger RX models. It shared similar dimensions with the Toyota RAV4 and came standard with power-folding mirrors and 17-inch wheels. The F Sport variant added a sportier touch with features like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the F Sport boasted quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional Circuit Red interior, maintaining Lexus's reputation for excellent material fit and finish. However, the interior design, particularly the gauge cluster and center stack, felt outdated compared to competitors like the 2022 Hyundai Tucson and 2021 Nissan Rogue.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 retained its decade-old body shell with minor updates over the years, including the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's styling was coherent despite not being originally designed around the spindle grille, offering a tough and aggressive look. However, the interior did not meet modern luxury SUV standards, with wood trim resembling molded plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. Despite standard leather upholstery, the interior felt dated. The GX's upright dashboard and high center console limited legroom, and the steering wheel's odd angle contributed to a bus-like driving feel. While the dashboard shape and boxy profile provided excellent outward visibility, forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was best suited for children, and accessing it was challenging due to the second-row seats.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with a relatively quiet ride despite some noise under hard acceleration. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available, allowing up to 50 percent of torque to be transferred to the rear axle. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while AWD models had a combined rating of 24 mpg. The NX offered an adaptive-suspension system and three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, influencing throttle response and power-steering assist. The NX 300 had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The GX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, but its 5,130-pound weight affected performance at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The ride quality was typical of a body-on-frame vehicle, with low grip and body roll in corners. The GX excelled in off-road capability, equipped with a Torsen center differential, standard 4WD with a low range, and driver aids like hill-descent control. An optional Off-Road Package added features like a transmission cooler and Crawl Control. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds and stability control with trailer-sway control.

The 2021 Lexus NX offered a comfortable interior with ample room for front and second-row passengers. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the NX featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. However, cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX came with a power liftgate option and power-folding rear seats.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel angle. The dashboard shape and boxy profile provided excellent visibility, but forward visibility was limited by the tall hood. The GX offered three rows of seating, with a power-folding third row available on higher trims. Cargo space was limited, with 64.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, and minimal space with the third row up.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package, which included predictive traffic information and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the Lexus infotainment system was not user-friendly. Other features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX was compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote app, offering remote control features and maintenance alerts.

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 functions. However, analog controls were available for most functions, providing a straightforward interface. A 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was optional.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including features like lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The NX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect was standard, offering emergency assistance and collision notification.

The 2021 Lexus GX also featured the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. However, it lacked some safety features found in other Lexus models, such as traffic-sign recognition. The GX had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.