2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with eight models, ranging from $33,745 to $54,495, excluding a $1,495 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline and luxurious King Ranch trims, and introduced the sporty ST-Line. The King Ranch model, tested with 4WD, Rapid Red paint, and a Premium Technology package, reached an MSRP of $59,880. Despite its high price, the King Ranch's visual differences from other trims were minimal, featuring King Ranch emblems, 20-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, boasted a long hood, short front overhang, and a floating roof effect. Inside, the King Ranch featured exclusive Del Rio leather seating with King Ranch branding, but the cabin mixed quality materials with some that felt less premium for the price.

The 2023 Lexus RX, redesigned for a modern look, was shorter in height, broader in width, and longer in wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. It offered more cargo space, though still less than rivals, and appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines. The RX's spindle-style grille integrated seamlessly into the design, with upswept body sides and a light-blade taillight design. The RX's styling was familiar yet fresh, distinct from the smaller NX. Inside, the RX featured a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a touchscreen display. Quality levels were high, with NuLuxe artificial leather standard and genuine leather available. The RX 350, available in various trims, was expected to maintain a base price just over $47,000.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The base, XLT, ST-Line, Limited, and Timberline trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and RWD, with 4WD optional. It had a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds and achieved up to 24 mpg combined. The hybrid drivetrain, available for the Limited and Platinum trims, combined a 3.3-liter V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 5,000 lbs and returning 27 mpg combined. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, standard on ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims, generated 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 5,600 lbs with 21 mpg combined. The King Ranch 4WD test vehicle averaged 20.6 mpg. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and felt athletic in daily driving.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered less horsepower but more torque than the previous V6, performing better at higher altitudes with improved fuel economy. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive suspension. The RX 350 FWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, and the AWD in 7.2 seconds, with expected fuel economy of 25 mpg and 24 mpg combined, respectively. The RX 350 F Sport Handling model's adaptive suspension improved ride quality, and both models had superior pedal feel compared to hybrid versions.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with a second-row bench seat accommodating five occasionally. The third-row seat was suitable only for children due to the rear-drive platform and low roofline. The King Ranch model featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and massaging front seats. The second-row seats were comfortable, but the third-row was difficult for adults to access. Storage space was limited, with a lack of practical pockets and shelves. The King Ranch had a hands-free power liftgate, offering 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 models offered comfort, with the F Sport Handling package providing sport seat bolsters. The RX 350 Luxury featured semi-aniline leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The RX 350 F Sport Handling had NuLuxe simulated leather seats and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. Both models provided exceptional comfort, with a roomy back seat offering good leg support. Storage areas were useful, and cargo space improved over the previous RX, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen display. The King Ranch model included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. The Sync 3 system had limitations, with voice recognition issues and a lack of intuitive controls. The King Ranch also featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. The Intelligent Assistant responded to voice commands, though with occasional inaccuracies. User profiles could be set up, and music streaming was available. The Mark Levinson sound system required tone adjustments for optimal sound. The RX also offered a color head-up display and digital key technology.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel sensitivity was occasionally problematic.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with new functions like motorcycle detection and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were new semi-autonomous technologies. LSS+ 3.0 performed well, though the HUD's visibility was an issue with polarized sunglasses. Curve-speed reduction technology was not predictive, and the driver monitoring system required attention.