2022 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 F Sport version. 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 F Sport variant added a sportier touch with 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 options for a Circuit Red interior color scheme. The material quality was excellent, with leather and wood trim available. The gauge cluster featured a familiar four-dial setup with a 4.2-inch multi-information display, though it appeared dated compared to competitors. The center stack, with its elevated climate-control buttons and rare CD player, also showed its age. Despite these quirks, the NX's interior was functional, though it lacked open small-item storage between the driver and passenger.

The 2022 Ford Expedition received several updates, including a new grille, headlights, and bumper, along with revised taillights and tailgate trim. The model lineup included XL STX, XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from just over $55,000 to nearly $84,000. A new Timberline trim catered to off-road enthusiasts with 4WD, all-terrain tires, and off-roading tech. The Stealth Edition packages added black 22-inch wheels and other sporty elements.

Inside, the Expedition featured a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. The test vehicle, a Limited Stealth Edition, had a 12.4-inch digital instrumentation display and a 15.5-inch touchscreen. The MSRP for the test model was $80,155, including options like 4WD and a Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package. Despite some F-150-grade plastic trim, the Expedition's interior impressed with leather seats, soft padding, and advanced tech.

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 adequate but less smooth than newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds, with some noise under hard acceleration. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available, allowing up to 50% of torque to be transferred to the rear axle.

Fuel economy for the NX was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. AWD models had similar figures, with a slight drop in combined efficiency. The NX 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 NX offered three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, each affecting throttle response and power-steering assist.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque (400 hp and 480 lb-ft on 93-octane fuel). The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with 4WD optional. Fuel economy ranged from 17 to 19 mpg combined, with observed fuel economy at 16.2 mpg. The Expedition could tow between 9,000 and 9,300 pounds, depending on the model and equipment.

The Expedition's twin-turbo V6 provided addictive power and a pleasing exhaust note. However, the sport-tuned suspension of the Stealth Edition resulted in a harsh ride quality on uneven pavement. The 22-inch wheels and 285/45 tires contributed to this issue. Despite its size, the Expedition was easy to park, thanks to excellent visibility, parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. On the highway, the Expedition excelled, offering a quiet and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long road trips.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an upscale interior with comfortable front seats and adequate second-row legroom. 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 Expedition excelled in interior comfort, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and individual climate controls. The third-row seat was easy to access and offered good leg support, though headroom could be tight for taller passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 104.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The Expedition Max offered even more cargo space.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch screen available as part of the Navigation package. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Other 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 higher trims. The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured the next-generation Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. The standard Sync 4 system had a 12-inch touchscreen, while Sync 4A offered a 15.5-inch touchscreen. Both systems included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass Connect, and a connected navigation system. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, and Bang & Olufsen premium sound systems. The Sync 4A system had some quirks, such as accidental activation of the defroster function and occasional issues with Apple CarPlay. The Expedition also offered an upgraded rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV.

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 safety features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered three Ford Co-Pilot360 packages. The standard package included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, a driver monitoring system, and automatic high beams. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, speed-limit-sign recognition, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. The Co-Pilot Assist 2.0 package, standard on higher trims, included a surround-view camera system, rear automatic emergency braking, and Active Park Assist 2.0. The Expedition also offered BlueCruise hands-free driving technology.