2021 Ford Expedition vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a unique blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, distinguishing itself from traditional SUVs. Despite its aggressive F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid's design had not evolved significantly over the years, making it both familiar and distinct. The test model, adorned in Grecian Water blue paint, featured a larger mesh grille and dark-finish 18-inch wheels, which contrasted nicely with the bright color. Inside, the NX Hybrid's interior design, once radical, had become familiar due to its lack of updates. The F Sport Black Line treatment added elements like an F Sport heated steering wheel and aluminum pedals, but the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Expedition Platinum exuded a plush and roomy feel, ideal for accommodating tired travelers. The Platinum trim, the most luxurious in the Expedition lineup, featured Magnetic gray paint, 4WD, and a Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package. Despite its impressive appearance, the Expedition struggled to accommodate all passengers and their luggage simultaneously, highlighting the utility of minivans. The Expedition Platinum's chrome grille, 22-inch wheels, and brightwork added to its bold presence. While the standard-length model had limitations, the extended-length MAX version offered ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a more practical choice for larger groups.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total system output of 194 horsepower. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX Hybrid's performance figures told a different story, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph. The hybrid system prioritized fuel efficiency over excitement, resulting in a clunky transition between electric and gasoline power. The sport-tuned suspension, part of the Black Line package, improved handling and ride comfort, but the steering remained numb, and the overall driving experience felt less refined compared to newer models.

The 2021 Ford Expedition, on the other hand, boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, with the Platinum trim receiving a boost to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft. The Expedition's towing capacity ranged from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds, and it featured Pro Trailer Backup Assist technology for easier trailer maneuvering. Acceleration was impressive, even with a full load, and the adaptive damping suspension provided a comfortable ride despite the 22-inch wheels. The Expedition's off-road capabilities were enhanced with the FX4 Off-Road Package, although our test vehicle did not include this option. Fuel economy averaged 17.1 mpg, slightly below the EPA's combined rating of 19 mpg.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid offered limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats due to thick rear pillars. While front-seat legroom was generous, rear legroom was the worst among competitors. The front seats provided excellent support, and the Black Line-specific seats added extra bolstering. The NX Hybrid's cargo space was also limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. A power-folding second row and power liftgate were available but not standard.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Expedition excelled in comfort and utility, with large, wide seats for all passengers, including adults in the third row. The independent rear suspension ensured comfort, and storage for odds and ends was plentiful. Cargo volume expanded from 19.3 cubic feet to 57.5 cubic feet with the third-row seat folded, and the maximum volume behind the front seats was 104.6 cubic feet. The Expedition MAX offered even more space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 121.5 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display screen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. However, the lack of a touchscreen and the awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad made it difficult to use while driving. Analog controls were provided for most functions, and the graphics appeared dated. The base audio system was tinny and unbalanced, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2021 Ford Expedition featured the Sync 3 infotainment system, which, despite its age, offered a user-friendly interface with an 8-inch touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, FordPass Connect services, and a navigation system. The test vehicle had a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. An available dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was not included in our test vehicle.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS, with top "Good" scores in all crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention tech. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 bundle, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, a 360-degree camera system was notably absent.

The 2021 Ford Expedition earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, although its rollover-resistance rating was lower with RWD. Standard safety features included Ford Co-Pilot360, with adaptive cruise control and a semi-autonomous parking assistance system available on higher trims. The Expedition's lane-keeping technology was helpful, but a more advanced driving system was not yet available.