2022 Ford Bronco vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX carried forward the brand's signature design and styling elements. The NX 300 and NX 300 F Sport gasoline models featured sharp design lines and a sculpted exterior, making it visually similar to the smaller Lexus UX and larger Lexus RX. Standard features included power-folding outside mirrors and 17-inch wheels. The NX F Sport variant added sportier elements like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the F Sport models boasted quilted NuLuxe sport seats and an optional Circuit Red interior color scheme. The interior's material fit and finish were excellent, though the design of the gauge cluster and center stack appeared somewhat dated.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Bronco showcased attractive retro styling and a go-anywhere attitude, making it one of the most sought-after vehicles. The Bronco lineup expanded to seven trims, including the new Everglades model, which featured an intake snorkel, a Warn winch, and 35-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires. The Bronco's design was unapologetically utilitarian, with short overhangs, low-profile bumpers, and a tall ride height to enhance off-road capabilities. The interior continued the rugged theme with marine-grade vinyl upholstery, drain plugs, and large rubberized toggle switches. Despite its off-road focus, the Bronco offered modern technology like a digital instrument panel and a large infotainment touchscreen.

The 2021 Lexus NX was 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 standard, though it lacked the smoothness of newer eight-, nine-, and ten-speed transmissions. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds, which was average for its segment. The ride was generally quiet, except under hard acceleration. The F Sport models featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the AWD model had similar figures but a combined rating of 24 mpg. The NX had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, and an optional turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 with 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The four-cylinder engine could be paired with a seven-speed manual transmission, featuring a crawl gear for low-speed driving, or a 10-speed automatic. The V6 was only available with the 10-speed automatic. All Broncos came with four-wheel drive and an electronic two-speed transfer case. The Bronco excelled in off-road conditions, with models like the Everglades capable of fording water up to 36.4 inches deep. On pavement, the Bronco offered a smoother ride and better steering than its direct rival, the Jeep Wrangler. Wind noise was a minor issue, but overall, the Bronco performed well in various settings.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an upscale interior with comfortable front seats and adequate legroom in the second row. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding configuration. 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 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design contributed to its spacious interior. Headroom was ample, even for tall passengers, and legroom was generous in both rows. The two-door model offered 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 52.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The four-door model increased these figures to 35.6 cubic feet and 77.6 cubic feet, respectively. The rear seats did not fold flat, creating a step-up that complicated loading larger items. The Bronco also featured clever storage solutions, including netted door pockets, a rubberized phone tray, and optional stowable doors. External hard mounting points and hidden anchors enhanced utility.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, 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, a personal concierge service. 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 was standard, with an optional Mark Levinson 14-speaker system available. The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app allowed users to control various functions remotely, and Lexus Enform Services Connect provided maintenance alerts.

The 2022 Ford Bronco utilized technology to enhance its off-road capabilities. The G.O.A.T. modes optimized drivetrain and chassis settings for specific terrains, while the forward-looking trail camera provided confidence in navigating obstacles. The Bronco's Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses, sharp graphics, and helpful off-road apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an available wireless charging pad.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included 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 "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus backed the NX with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's standard safety features included hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional features, available in various packages, included frontal collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, lane-keep assist, rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, front parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The NHTSA awarded the four-door Bronco four out of five stars for frontal crash protection and three out of five stars for rollover protection. The IIHS gave the Bronco "Good" scores in frontal, side, and roof strength tests, and an "Acceptable" score for head restraints and seats.