2022 Ford Bronco vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, evaluated in Black Onyx, was a striking vehicle that eradicated almost all chrome from its exterior, transforming it into a rolling black hole. Despite its modern touches like the signature Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, the GX still looked dated, reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002. The interior, however, showcased Lexus's legendary craftsmanship with smooth, silky refinement and a quiet cabin, save for the faint roar of the standard V8 engine. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with prices ranging from $56,700 to $66,210, including destination charges. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the GX 460 Premium, started at $60,535.

The 2022 Ford Bronco, with its attractive retro styling and go-anywhere attitude, was one of the most sought-after vehicles. The Bronco returned with two new range-topping models: the Everglades and the Bronco Raptor. The Everglades model, built for swamp trekking and deep water, came with an intake snorkel, a Warn winch, and 35-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires. The Bronco lineup expanded to seven distinct trims, all sold out for 2022. Buyers could choose between two-door or four-door body styles, a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine, and a removable roof with either a soft- or hard-top. The Bronco's design was unapologetically utilitarian, with large recovery hooks, removable fender flares, a full-size spare mounted to the tailgate, and modular construction for easy customization.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with a base curb weight of 5,126 pounds, featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, allowed the GX to tow up to 6,500 pounds. The GX's drag coefficient of 0.35, combined with its V8 engine and always-on 4WD system, resulted in an EPA fuel economy estimate of 16 mpg in combined driving. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) helped maximize wheel articulation off-road while reducing excessive body motions, making the GX stable and secure. However, the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal were less appealing aspects of its ride and handling.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, with an optional turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine delivering 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed manual transmission was available for the four-cylinder engine, while a 10-speed automatic was mandatory for the V6. All Broncos came with four-wheel drive and an electronic two-speed transfer case. The Bronco excelled in off-road conditions, with the Everglades model handling deep-rutted muddy trails, deep water crossings, and steep rock climbs with ease. On pavement, the Bronco's ride quality and steering were superior to its direct rival, the Jeep Wrangler, making it a better road trip companion.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position from a 10-way power-adjustable seat with clear outward visibility. The GX's tall height, narrow width, and short length made it easy to maneuver in various situations. The Black Line Special Edition featured NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. The front seats were heated and ventilated, and the back seats were heated. However, the rear seat access was tricky, and the third-row seat was cramped and eliminated cargo space. The GX's cargo capacity was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third-row seat, 46.7 cubic feet with the third-row seat folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's squared-off styling contributed to its abundance of interior space, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Cargo capacity varied depending on the model and roof types, with the two-door hard top accommodating up to 22.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 52.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The four-door hard top increased capacity to 35.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 77.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Bronco also featured clever storage solutions and accessories, such as large armrest bins, netted door pockets, and rubberized phone trays. External hard mounting points and removable fender flares further enhanced its utility.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. The system was easy to see and use, with a dual-screen view for navigation and radio display. The GX also offered a CD player, a smartwatch-compatible Lexus app, and Lexus Enform connected services, including a WiFi hotspot. However, the placement of the stereo controls below the off-roading controls was awkward. The GX also included Intuitive Parking Assist technology, surround-view, and terrain-view cameras.

The 2022 Ford Bronco used technology to enhance its off-road capabilities while keeping the driver engaged. The G.O.A.T. modes optimized drivetrain and chassis settings for specific terrain, and the forward-looking trail camera provided confidence in navigating obstacles. The Bronco's Sync 4 infotainment system featured quick responses, sharp graphics, and helpful off-road apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration were standard, and a wireless charging pad was available.

The 2022 Lexus GX, structurally a teenager, lacked crash-test ratings. However, it featured Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The GX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services with automatic collision notification and emergency calling. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.

The 2022 Ford Bronco included standard safety features such as hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional safety features included frontal collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts, lane-keep assist, rear parking sensors, front parking sensors, surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The Bronco received four-out-of-five stars for frontal crash protection and three-out-of-five stars for rollover protection from the NHTSA. The IIHS awarded the Bronco its best score of "Good" in frontal, side, and roof strength tests and "Acceptable" for head restraints and seats.