2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior. The updates were more than minor tweaks, allowing the RX to stand out in a competitive market. Despite its age, the RX maintained a stylish edge over its Toyota counterparts. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to align with other Lexus models, and new paint options like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl were introduced. The rear design was updated with dual exhausts and a hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX offered a well-appointed cabin with various color and material options, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trims. The F Sport package added unique styling elements and performance features, while the interior remained durable and family-friendly, though the center stack design was starting to show its age.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX, retained its sharp, streamlined design, though it hadn't evolved much over the years. Sharing a platform with the older Toyota RAV4, the NX lagged behind in engineering despite its luxury badge. The F Sport Black Line model featured a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water paint. The interior, once radical, had become familiar, with a stepped center console and limited use of wood trim. The Black Line package added sporty elements like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery, but material quality felt more mainstream than luxury. The design included some appealing features, such as an analog dashboard clock, but overall, it lacked the premium feel expected from a Lexus.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350L variant offered slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower. The RX 450h hybrid combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower. The RX 450hL variant had a similar setup but with a lower output from the gasoline engine. The hybrid models featured an electronically-controlled CVT and all-wheel drive, with additional motors for enhanced performance. The RX was not particularly athletic, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered a smooth and connected driving experience. Fuel economy varied, with the RX 450h achieving 30 mpg combined. The F Sport models included adaptive suspension and sportier features, enhancing agility and driving dynamics.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. The NX 300h came standard with all-wheel drive. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The Black Line package added sport-tuned suspension, improving handling without sacrificing comfort. However, the steering lacked feedback, and the NX felt less refined compared to newer models on the TNGA platform. Drive modes like Eco and Sport offered minimal impact on performance, with Eco mode further reducing acceleration.

The 2020 Lexus RX offered a spacious interior, comfortably seating four adults in the two-row model. The three-row RX-L was less accommodating, with a cramped third row suitable only for small children. The cabin was wide and tall, with comfortable front seats and decent visibility, though the A-pillar could obstruct views. Cargo space was limited compared to rivals, with a high load floor and less storage in the RX-L variants. A hands-free liftgate was available on some models.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with the least rear legroom in its class. The front seats were comfortable, especially with the Black Line-specific bolstering, and offered power adjustments and optional heated and ventilated features. Rear visibility was compromised by the sloping roofline and thick pillars, though large mirrors helped. The sporty dashboard design was functional but might not appeal to those seeking a traditional SUV feel. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet available with the rear seats up and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. A power liftgate was available but not standard.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements included moving the display closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was still challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay and other integrations provided workarounds. The system included Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and more, with a touchpad that had improved responsiveness. Six USB ports were available, and the audio system could be upgraded to a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and an awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, but the system felt dated, with poor graphics and difficult menus. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams. Additional features like bicyclist detection and lane-tracing assist were standard. The RX received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA. It included Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, with features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were newly standard, though a 360-degree camera system was missing.