2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Ford Bronco

The 2022 Ford Bronco captivated enthusiasts with its retro styling and robust off-road capabilities. It offered a wide range of trims, including the Everglades model, which was specifically designed for swamp trekking with features like an intake snorkel and 35-inch mud-terrain tires. Despite its rugged appearance, the Bronco was equipped with modern technology, such as G.O.A.T. modes for various terrains and a comprehensive camera system for off-road navigation. Its utilitarian design, with features like removable fender flares and marine-grade vinyl upholstery, made it a favorite among adventure seekers. However, the high demand meant that the 2022 models were quickly sold out, leaving many potential buyers disappointed.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid presented a more refined and luxurious experience. The RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance models maintained a similar appearance to the standard RX 350, with subtle differences like a blacked-out grille and matte-black wheels for the F Sport. The interior was minimalistic, featuring a new Lexus Interface infotainment system and ambient lighting. The RX 350h Luxury model boasted semi-aniline leather and wood trim, while the RX 500h offered a sportier feel with artificial suede and aluminum accents. Despite its stylish design, the RX's exterior proportions and rear roof pillar design made it appear smaller than its predecessor.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 producing 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The four-cylinder engine came with a seven-speed manual transmission, while the V6 was paired with a 10-speed automatic. Both engines provided ample power for off-road adventures, with the Everglades model excelling in challenging terrains like deep water crossings and steep rock climbs. On-road performance was also commendable, with the Bronco offering a smoother ride and better handling than its rival, the Jeep Wrangler.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured a new powertrain lineup, with the RX 350h producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It was expected to achieve 36 mpg in combined driving, although real-world testing showed an average of 32 mpg. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque from a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, reaching 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. However, its fuel economy was lower, averaging 20.9 mpg. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension and rear-wheel steering provided a dynamic driving experience, but accessing drive modes through the infotainment system proved cumbersome.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design translated to generous interior space, with ample headroom and legroom for passengers. Cargo capacity varied depending on the model and roof type, with the two-door hard-top offering up to 52.3 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. Clever storage solutions, like netted door pockets and accessory rails, added to the Bronco's practicality. However, the rear seats didn't fold flat, complicating the loading of larger items.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable and luxurious interior, especially in the RX 350h Luxury model with its premium leather and wood trim. The RX 500h F Sport Performance offered sportier seats with larger bolsters. Rear legroom was adequate, but headroom was limited due to the lower roofline. Cargo space improved over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with them folded. Despite these improvements, the RX still lagged behind some competitors in terms of cargo capacity.

The 2022 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, featuring G.O.A.T. modes and a forward-looking trail camera for navigating difficult terrain. The Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses and sharp graphics, with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Trail Turn Assist and other off-road apps further bolstered the Bronco's tech offerings.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The Lexus Interface included cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant, though it occasionally struggled with accuracy. The system's single-screen menu and lack of a tuning knob were drawbacks, as was the head-up display's visibility issues with polarized sunglasses. Despite these challenges, the RX's technology represented a significant upgrade from previous models.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered a range of safety features, including hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features like frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Bronco received mixed safety ratings, with four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection from the NHTSA, and "Good" ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and a new Traffic Jam Assist system were also available. While the safety features generally performed well, some, like the curve-speed reduction tech, were less effective. The RX's safety offerings were comprehensive, though not without minor irritations.