2022 Ford Expedition vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Ford Expedition underwent several changes, including exterior styling revisions and updated infotainment technology. The front featured a new grille, headlights, and bumper, while the rear received revised taillights, tailgate trim, and a new bumper. Redesigned wheels were introduced across the model lineup. The Expedition was available in various trims, including a new Timberline trim for off-road enthusiasts, and the Stealth Edition packages added unique styling elements.

Inside, the Expedition boasted a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, the latter featuring a 15.5-inch touchscreen display. The SUV offered a 12.4-inch digital instrumentation display and luxurious touches like leather seats and soft padding. The test model's MSRP was $80,155, including options like 4WD, extra-cost paint, the Stealth Package, and the larger Sync 4A touchscreen.

The 2023 Lexus GX had a commanding presence with its large spindle grille, 8.1 inches of ground clearance, and a height of 74.2 inches. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units and available in three paint colors. The GX's dimensions seemed to shrink when viewed from the side, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs, giving it a rugged, off-road-ready appearance.

Inside, the GX's interior featured a mix of luxury touches and disappointing plastic materials. The test vehicle had heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and impressive leather upholstery. However, the GX's low sales volume meant that Lexus had to keep manufacturing costs low, resulting in a less luxurious feel compared to other models in its lineup.

The 2022 Ford Expedition was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The engine drove the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission, with 4WD as an option. Fuel economy ranged from 17 to 19 mpg in combined driving, and the Expedition could tow between 9,000 and 9,300 pounds. The test vehicle's observed fuel economy was 16.2 mpg.

The Expedition's driving dynamics were generally impressive, with excellent outward visibility and ease of parking. However, the Stealth Edition's sport-tuned suspension and 22-inch wheels contributed to a sometimes harsh ride quality. The Expedition excelled on the highway, providing a comfortable and quiet ride for long trips.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The GX's V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery, but its performance figures lagged behind more modern engines. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds and an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The GX's driving dynamics were predictable and controllable, despite its weight and tendency to roll through corners. The steering was vague off-center, but the brakes were strong and reliable. The GX's 4WD system, Torsen limited-slip differential, and various off-road technologies made it a capable off-road vehicle.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered exceptional comfort and space, with power running boards for easy entry and exit. The test vehicle featured power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and comfort, while the third-row seat offered good leg support but limited headroom for taller passengers. Cargo space behind the third row was 19.3 cubic feet, expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 104.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2023 Lexus GX had a well-designed interior with plenty of cubby space for small items. The center console bin was deep and spacious, and the cupholders were conveniently placed. The GX retained physical controls, which were appreciated by those who preferred hard buttons over touchscreens. The second-row seats were comfortable, but the third row was too tight for regular use. Cargo space behind the third row was 11.6 cubic feet, expanding to 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded and 64.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured the next-generation Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. The standard Sync 4 system included a 12-inch touchscreen, while Sync 4A offered a larger 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 occasional issues with Apple CarPlay and voice recognition.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated for the 2022 model year, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, but the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind newer Lexus models. The GX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium stereo. The GX's off-road capabilities were impressive, with a real 4WD system, Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), and various off-road technologies.

The 2022 Ford Expedition came with 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-beam headlights. 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 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.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. However, it included advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date.