2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with updates like the spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights introduced in previous years. The Premium trim featured standard silver 18-inch wheels, with 19-inch options available. Despite its age, the GX's styling was coherent, with a massive grille that fit well with its tough, aggressive look. However, the interior did not match modern luxury standards, with wood trim resembling molded plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. Leather upholstery was standard, with semi-aniline leather on the Luxury trim.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between two-door and four-door models, with various powertrains including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler came in four core trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions. Our test vehicle, the High Tide special edition, featured LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop, and the Xtreme Recon package with a 1.5-inch suspension lift and 35-inch tires. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a focus on off-road capability rather 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. Despite its power, the GX's 5,130-pound weight affected its performance at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The GX excelled in off-road capability with a Torsen center differential, low-range 4WD, and driver aids like hill-descent control. It offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance and a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD. The Wrangler averaged 16.8 mpg over a week of driving. Known for its unique driving experience, the Wrangler was loud, with vague steering and a rough ride. However, it offered an immersive experience, especially with the top and doors removed, and excelled in off-road conditions.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior showed its age with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel position. The dashboard design provided excellent visibility, but forward visibility was limited by the tall hood. Storage was limited, with small cupholders and a small center-console bin. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was best for children and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a close driving position. Visibility varied, with some areas requiring adjustments. Rear-seat passengers faced entry challenges but had good accommodations once seated. Storage options were limited, with a small center console and glove compartment. The Wrangler offered 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It offered Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity, with two USB ports for the first two rows. The infotainment system was outdated, with basic graphics and limited functions. However, analog controls were available for most functions, providing a straightforward interface.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While it lacked the optional Uconnect 8.4 system, it provided essential functions. Additional tech included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2021 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some features found in other Lexus models, such as traffic-sign recognition. The GX had no published crash-test ratings from NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Wrangler received a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA and Marginal ratings from IIHS for crash tests. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving.