2021 Ford Bronco vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2021 Ford Bronco stirred the automotive world with its much-anticipated return, inspired by the classic 1966 model that earned a legendary reputation over its three-decade production run. The new Bronco embraced a "Retrofuturism" design ethos, seamlessly merging nostalgic elements with modern sensibilities to create a visually striking off-roader.

The front of the Bronco prominently featured a single-piece grille adorned with bold B-R-O-N-C-O lettering, flanked by iconic round headlights. This design drew direct inspiration from its storied past, while the hood and removable off-road sights added a rugged flair. The body, characterized by flat and simple sides, was enhanced with applied fender flares and substantial tires—32-inch standard or 35-inch with the Sasquatch package. The Bronco offered versatile configurations with either a two-door (100.4-inch wheelbase) or four-door (116.1-inch wheelbase) layout, showcasing a balance of vintage and contemporary aesthetics.

Inside, the Bronco continued its homage to the past, with retro-styled dashboards digitally scanned from the original model. The interiors boasted a robust, off-road-ready feel featuring heavy-duty materials like reinforced plastics and metal accents. Even the second-row seats in the two-door version offered surprising comfort for adults, though the four-door model provided enhanced accessibility and space.

Conversely, the 2022 Lexus GX, particularly its Black Line Special Edition, possessed a somewhat contradictory visual appeal. Dressed in Black Onyx, this version of the GX exuded a striking, almost menacing presence due to its nearly chrome-free exterior. However, while the Black Line treatment aimed for modern aggression, the overall design language of the GX remained reminiscent of an era gone by. Indeed, without the distinctive Lexus spindle grille combined with its triple-beam LED headlights, the GX's exterior could easily be mistaken for older generations.

Inside, the GX's cabin reflected Lexus' commitment to craftsmanship. It featured comfortable, well-padded seats, with the Black Line Special Edition offering NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. However, despite luxurious materials and enhancements, some switches felt dated, and the backseat accessibility suffered due to narrow door openings. The third-row seating was especially cramped, rendering it quite impractical for adult passengers.

The 2021 Ford Bronco offered a choice between two powertrains at its launch. The standard 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four engine provided 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a seven-speed manual transmission. For those seeking more muscle, Ford presented an optional 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged inline-four engine, cranking out 310 horsepower and an impressive 400 lb-ft of torque. This engine variant came with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which was also optional with the 2.3-liter engine. All models featured a standard 4WD system.

During testing under challenging conditions, including torrential rain and muddy terrains in Holly, Michigan, both engines demonstrated robust performance. The 2.7-liter engine's power delivery felt well-suited to the Bronco's large frame, ensuring smooth transitions and reliable acceleration. Equally notable was the Bronco’s off-road capability, especially when fitted with the Sasquatch package's 35-inch tires. The Bronco excelled in diverse terrains, offering impressive traction, balanced handling, and a thoroughly enjoyable off-road driving experience.

On the other hand, the 2022 Lexus GX 460 relied on its sturdy 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. While not scorching by current standards, the V8 provided sufficient power to propel the GX, allowing for a competent, if unhurried, 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph. This engine was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, which effectively distributed power between the front and rear wheels.

The GX also featured the Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS), enhancing its ride stability while accommodating wheel articulation off-road. Although the system improved the GX's handling, the SUV's heavy steering made parking and tight maneuvers cumbersome. The GX's substantial curb weight and less-than-aerodynamic shape negatively impacted its fuel economy, averaging an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in mixed driving conditions.

Ford's extensive research into consumer preferences and off-road requirements was evident in the 2021 Bronco’s design. The Bronco embraced modularity, a standout feature allowing for highly customizable configurations. Noteworthy was its removable doors, storable within the vehicle itself, thanks to labeled protective bags and a simple disconnection process. This foresight extended to easily replaceable fenders, bumpers, and grille, vital for enthusiasts planning rigorous off-roading exploits.

Modularity wasn’t confined to the exterior. Inside, the Bronco boasted a functional design featuring intuitive controls for differential, sway-bar, and other suspension settings, positioned for easy access during challenging drives. The overhead auxiliary switches were pre-wired for additional equipment, a thoughtful touch that underscored the Bronco's off-road readiness.

When comparing cargo capacities, the Bronco excelled with its flexible space ranging from 22.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats in the two-door version to an expansive 52.3 cubic feet in the four-door model, with seats folded down creating ample room for gear and adventure essentials.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX's interior, though plush, revealed some functional limitations. The GX provided a comfortable and elevated driving position, with broad visibility enhancing its maneuverability. Nevertheless, the interior layout suffered from outdated switchgear positioning, making some controls less intuitive than they should be.

Cargo capacity in the GX was also less impressive. The presence of a third-row seat significantly reduced available storage, offering just 11.6 cubic feet behind it. Even with the third-row seats folded, the GX only managed 46.7 cubic feet of cargo space, falling short compared to competitors like the Toyota 4Runner. Moreover, the side-swinging rear gate posed practical challenges, especially in confined spaces.

The 2021 Ford Bronco utilized Ford’s latest SYNC 4 infotainment system, featuring either an 8-inch or an optional 12-inch touchscreen. SYNC 4 integrated enhanced voice recognition and facilitated a seamless user experience, supporting navigation upgrades and a B&O sound system through various packages. The off-road-centric G.O.A.T. (Go Over Any Terrain) modes provided valuable ease in selecting appropriate settings for different terrains, reflecting Bronco's off-road prowess.

The Bronco’s tech suite included push-button start, which could be upgraded to a proximity key entry with higher trims. More so, the High and Lux Packages included advanced features like voice-activated navigation and wireless device charging, catering to both convenience and enhanced driving experience.

New advancements in the 2022 Lexus GX included the long-overdue addition of a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Positioned for optimal usability, this system supported contemporary needs like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, while maintaining a throwback to older technology with an included CD player. The addition of Lexus Enform connected services, including a WiFi hotspot, highlighted the blend of classic and modern functionality.

However, ergonomics suffered in the GX, as stereo controls were awkwardly placed below essential off-roading knobs, making frequent adjustments potentially confusing.

The 2021 Ford Bronco emphasized safety through a packaged approach, with more features unlocked at higher trim levels. Base models came equipped with essential airbags, while the Mid Package, available on Big Bend and Black Diamond trims, introduced Ford Co-Pilot 360 with pre-collision assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and other key systems. Higher trims added sophistication with 360-degree cameras and forward-sensing systems. Moreover, the Bronco’s unique consideration for off-roading extended to its side curtain airbags, designed to account for the vehicle's lean and roll during rugged adventures.

The 2022 Lexus GX benefitted from Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, compared to more modern luxury SUVs, the GX fell short in offering advanced driver aids like lane-keeping and lane-centering assists, making it less equipped for high-tech safety enthusiasts.