2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. It offered a luxurious interior with sumptuous seating and perforated leather upholstery, though the center console design felt dated. The RX was available in five variants, including the performance-focused RX F Sport and the extended RXL models with a third row. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with options for 20-inch wheels and other exterior upgrades. Inside, the RX provided a well-appointed cabin with options for semi-aniline leather and heated seats, though the infotainment system's appearance lagged behind competitors.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a distinctive design with a blunt nose and floating roof effect. Its styling, while initially polarizing, became familiar over time. The Highlander Hybrid was available in LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims, with a hybrid powertrain option. The Limited trim offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen and premium audio, though the interior had some drawbacks, such as a hollow-sounding instrument panel. The cabin featured a two-tone look with leather upholstery, but the mix of illumination colors at night could be distracting. Overall, the Highlander Hybrid aimed for efficiency over driving excitement.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 with three electric motors, delivering 308 horsepower. The RX achieved 20-23 mpg combined, while the RX Hybrid managed 29-31 mpg in the city. The RX F Sport added adaptive suspension and sportier features. The RX reached 60 mph in 7.7-7.9 seconds, with a top speed of 124 mph, offering a comfortable and dynamic driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a total output of 243 horsepower. It achieved 36 mpg combined with FWD and 35 mpg with AWD. The hybrid system used an E-CVT, providing adequate power but lacking excitement. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency but struggled with driving dynamics, especially on hilly terrain. The steering felt lifeless, and the ride could be unsettled on uneven roads. However, it offered a quiet and comfortable ride on smooth highways.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered functional interior space, seating five in two-row models and up to seven in three-row RXL versions. Front and second-row seats were spacious, but the third row was cramped. Cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The RXL provided 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided roomy front seats with power adjustments and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third row was uncomfortable and cramped. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage was adequate but less generous than previous models, with some design quirks affecting usability.

The 2021 Lexus RX came with dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch screen, premium audio, and navigation. The infotainment system was functional but not user-friendly, with a touchpad controller taking up console space. Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was absent.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured standard connectivity options and a trial of connected services. The Limited trim offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen and JBL audio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large controls and effective voice recognition. Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience. The JBL system's sound quality varied, and the driver information display provided detailed data.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick from IIHS and four out of five stars from NHTSA. It included 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a range of driver-assist features. However, it lacked advanced hands-off driving technology found in newer models.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, adding intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The Highlander earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering systems had room for improvement.