2022 Lexus GX vs 2023 Ford Bronco

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's design felt 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 460 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 2023 Ford Bronco, offered in nine distinct trim levels, combined retro-cool styling with modern engineering. Its blocky, upright shape, wide horizontal grille, and big round headlights were unmistakable. The Base trim had a primitive, bare-bones look, while the top-tier Raptor flaunted a wide stance, elevated height, and massive tires. The new Heritage trim added nostalgic touches like a white grille, roof, and wheels, along with unique plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's rugged theme extended to its interior, with sealed switches and buttons, drain plugs in the floor, and waterproof marine-grade vinyl upholstery. The Bronco's interior materials prioritized durability over luxury, and while some creaking was noted over bumps, it was quieter than an equivalent Jeep Wrangler.

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, enabled a 7.8-second run to 60 mph and a maximum towing capacity of 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) enhanced stability and off-road capability, though the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the driving experience. The Off-Road Package, available with the Luxury trim, added features like Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and skid plates.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 with 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 in the Raptor with 418 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque. All engines came with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. The Bronco's ride quality was bouncier than a typical family SUV but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler. The Bronco's high-riding dimensions and big all-terrain tires required careful handling on curving roads, but it felt more confident than expected. The four-door model was easier to maneuver, thanks to several cameras. The Bronco's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like G.O.A.T. drive modes, numerous camera views, and Trail Turn Assist.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear outward visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it easy to maneuver, though the slow steering required extra effort. 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 side-swinging tailgate made loading difficult, and the cargo space was limited to 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape provided ample interior space. The four-door model offered easier access to the rear seats and more cargo space, with 35.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 77.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The two-door model had 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 52.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The rear seats didn't fold flat, creating a step-up that hindered sliding longer cargo and sleeping. The Bronco's interior featured netted door pockets, a rubberized tray for phones, and accessory rails atop the dash. The fenders and doors were easily removable for hardcore off-roaders.

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 use, with a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition technology. The GX also offered a CD player, a smartwatch-compatible Lexus app, and Lexus Enform connected services, including a WiFi hotspot. However, the stereo controls were awkwardly placed below the off-roading controls, making them harder to use. The GX also included Intuitive Parking Assist, surround-view, and terrain-view cameras.

The 2023 Ford Bronco used technology to enhance its off-road abilities with G.O.A.T. drive modes, numerous camera views, and Trail Turn Assist. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Ford’s SYNC 4, and an optional wireless charging pad. Most Broncos came with an eight-inch touchscreen, but a 12-inch display was available for easier use.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included standard Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked more advanced safety technologies found in competitors.

The 2023 Ford Bronco received partial crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with mixed results. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, hill-start assist, hill-descent control, trailer-sway assist, and Trail Turn Assist. The Mid package added blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, rear parking sensors, and automatic high beams. The High package added front parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system, while the Luxe package included adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist.