2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2021 Lexus GX

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 styling remained coherent despite the massive grille, appealing to SUV enthusiasts with its tough, aggressive look. However, the interior felt outdated for a luxury SUV, with wood trim resembling molded plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. Standard leather upholstery was a plus, but the overall interior quality lagged behind modern standards.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured sharp edges and a streamlined profile, maintaining a familiar yet distinct look. Built on the previous-generation Toyota RAV4 platform, it lagged in engineering compared to its Toyota counterpart. The F Sport Black Line model showcased a larger mesh grille, dark-finish wheels, and a striking Grecian Water paint. The interior design, once radical, now felt familiar, with a stepped center console and plastic switchgear. While the design had appealing elements, the material quality was more akin to mainstream brands than luxury.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds but felt heavy at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The ride quality was typical of a body-on-frame vehicle, lacking the refinement of unibody construction. However, the GX excelled off-road with a Torsen center differential, low-range 4WD, and various driver aids. It boasted a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds but was outmatched by competitors like the Land Rover Discovery in off-road metrics.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 194 horsepower and standard AWD. Despite its sporty appearance, it reached 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, focusing more on fuel efficiency than performance. The drivetrain struggled with power transitions, and the steering felt numb. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling without sacrificing comfort. Drive modes offered minimal impact, with Eco mode further dulling acceleration. Overall, the NX Hybrid prioritized efficiency over excitement.

The GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel angle. Visibility was generally good, but forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. Storage options were limited, and the third row was cramped, best suited for children. Cargo space was minimal with the third row up, and even with seats folded, it lagged behind competitors like the Land Rover Discovery.

The NX Hybrid offered limited headroom and rear legroom, with a sporty interior design that might not appeal to traditional SUV buyers. Front seats were comfortable, and the dashboard controls were easily accessible. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. The power-folding second row and power liftgate were available but not standard.

The GX was light on tech, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system felt outdated, with primitive graphics and limited functionality. However, analog controls provided a straightforward interface, a refreshing change from screen-centric systems.

The NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, the system felt dated. The base audio system was underwhelming, with higher trims offering a better Mark Levinson system.

The GX lacked crash-test ratings but included the Lexus Safety System+ with standard driver aids like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. However, it missed some features available in other Lexus models.

The NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, making it a strong contender in safety features among luxury crossovers.