2021 Ford Expedition vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX was available in three versions: the NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid. This comparison focused on the gasoline models, specifically the performance-oriented NX 300 F Sport. The NX carried over Lexus's signature design elements, featuring sharp lines and a sculpted exterior similar to the smaller UX and larger RX models. Standard features included power-folding outside mirrors and 17-inch wheels. The NX F Sport variant added sportier touches like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels.

Inside, the NX F Sport boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats with optional Circuit Red interior, alongside more traditional color schemes. The interior's material quality was excellent, with a familiar gauge cluster featuring a 4.2-inch multi-information display. However, the center stack design appeared outdated, with an elevated climate-control button setup and limited small-item storage. Despite these quirks, the NX maintained a functional and attractive interior.

The 2021 Ford Expedition Platinum greeted us at Los Angeles International Airport, a welcome sight after a long flight. The Platinum trim represented the pinnacle of the Expedition lineup, starting at $74,375. Our test vehicle, equipped with Magnetic gray paint, 4WD, and a Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, totaled $80,510. Power-deploying running boards and a rear liftgate added convenience, but the Expedition struggled to accommodate all our luggage, highlighting the utility of minivans.

Despite this, the Expedition Platinum's bold presence, with its chrome grille and 22-inch wheels, made a strong impression. The extended-length MAX version would have solved our cargo issues, offering more space for passengers and luggage. The Expedition's leather-lined cabin provided comfort for our six-person crew, though the use of hard plastics reminded us of its F-150 origins. For a more luxurious experience, the Lincoln Navigator offered a similar platform with upgraded materials.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate but lagged behind newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds, with some engine noise under hard acceleration. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control, enhancing the engine note electronically.

Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The AWD system could transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear axle but lacked individual-wheel torque vectoring. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while AWD models achieved 24 mpg combined. The NX 300 had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed of 124 mph. The adaptive suspension system, based on the LC 500 sport coupe, provided a smooth and comfortable ride, though the steering lacked feedback.

The 2021 Ford Expedition featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and either RWD or 4WD. The engine produced 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, with the Platinum trim boosting these figures to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft. Towing capacity ranged from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds, and the Pro Trailer Backup Assist technology simplified trailer maneuvering.

The Expedition's acceleration was impressive, even with a full load, and the twin-turbo V6 emitted a pleasant engine note. The transmission operated smoothly, and the steering and brakes performed as expected. The Platinum's 22-inch wheels affected ride quality, but the adaptive damping suspension and independent rear suspension ensured a stable ride. The FX4 Off-Road Package, available on XLT and Limited models, added off-road capabilities, though our Platinum model remained on pavement, averaging 17.1 mpg.

The 2021 Lexus NX's upscale interior offered comfort and style, with spacious front seats and adequate legroom in the second row. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the 60/40 split-folding rear seat provided flexibility. However, cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats were available options.

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 small items 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, 73.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, and a maximum of 121.5 cubic feet.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HomeLink. The Navigation package added Lexus Enform Destination Assist, providing in-car personal concierge services. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Premium Audio system had eight speakers, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on the top-tier NX.

The 2021 Ford Expedition's Sync 3 infotainment system, though aging, remained user-friendly. The 8-inch touchscreen offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, FordPass Connect services, and a navigation system. Amazon Alexa compatibility and enhanced voice recognition were also included. The test vehicle featured a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. An available dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system provided additional entertainment options.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with no recalls reported.

The 2021 Ford Expedition, with its substantial curb weight, had a safety advantage. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall crash-test rating, though the RWD model received a three-star rollover-resistance rating, while the 4WD model earned four stars. Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control, semi-autonomous parking assistance, and a 360-degree camera system.