2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2023 Ford Bronco

The 2023 Ford Bronco was a standout with its retro-cool styling and modern engineering, offered in nine distinct trim levels. Its blocky, upright shape, wide horizontal grille, and big round headlights were unmistakable, even from afar. The Base trim had a primitive, bare-bones look with steel wheels, while the Raptor trim showcased its top-tier status with a wide stance, elevated height, and massive fender flares. The Heritage trim added a nostalgic touch with a white grille, roof, and wheels, and unique plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's design was not just for aesthetics; functional elements like cleats above the headlights and raised "fins" aided in cargo securing and obstacle navigation. Inside, the rugged theme continued with a broad dash, sealed switches, and waterproof materials, making it easy to clean after off-road adventures. The interior materials prioritized durability over luxury, with a reassuring heft, though some creaking was noted over bumps.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance, maintained a similar appearance to the standard RX 350, with only subtle differences like badges. The RX 500h F Sport Performance stood out with a blacked-out grille, matte-black wheels, and aggressive styling. The RX's design was not traditionally beautiful, with a blunt nose and a wheelbase stretch that made it look smaller. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalistic approach with fewer switches and a new infotainment system. The RX 350h Luxury model featured Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance had a black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum trim. Lexus had not announced prices, but estimates suggested the RX 350h Luxury would be just over $60,000, and the RX 500h F Sport Performance around $70,000.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices. The base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine produced 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, available with a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional 2.7-liter V6 engine increased power to 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired only with the automatic transmission. The top-tier Bronco Raptor featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, delivering 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. All models came with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. The base engine was adequate for most driving scenarios, while the Raptor's power was excessive but enjoyable. The Bronco's ride was bouncier than typical SUVs but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler, with quieter interiors. However, its high-riding dimensions required careful handling on curvy roads, though it felt more confident than expected.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured a new powertrain for the RX 350h, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, expected to average 36 mpg. The RX 500h F Sport Performance used a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, with an estimated 27 mpg. The RX 500h included an adaptive damping suspension and Dynamic Rear Steering, enhancing its athleticism. The RX 350h felt secure in curves, with a quiet cabin and good gas mileage, averaging 32 mpg. The RX 500h F Sport Performance was more engaging to drive, with a 5.9-second 0-60 mph time, but its fuel economy fell short of estimates, averaging 20.9 mpg.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape provided ample interior space, with the four-door model offering easier rear seat access. The two-door model had 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 52.3 cubic feet with seats folded, while the four-door offered 35.6 cubic feet, expanding to 77.6 cubic feet. However, the rear seats didn't fold flat, creating a step-up that hindered sliding longer cargo. The Bronco's fenders and doors were easily removable, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered comfort and efficiency, with the RX 350h Luxury trim featuring ten-way power-adjustable front seats, premium leather, and three-zone climate control. The RX 500h F Sport Performance had eight-way power-adjustable seats with larger bolsters and standard-grade leather. The RX's battery placement under the rear seat provided good leg support but limited headroom. Cargo space was 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with seats folded, an improvement over the previous model but still less than some rivals.

The 2023 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, with G.O.A.T. drive modes optimizing engine and suspension settings for various terrains. Camera views aided in navigating tight spaces, and the Trail Turn Assist feature allowed sharp turns. The Bronco also offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional 12-inch infotainment display.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The system included cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant, though it had some limitations. The touchscreen displayed only one menu at a time, and reflections were an issue. The available head-up display had dual-function control pads, but polarized sunglasses hindered visibility.

The 2023 Ford Bronco received mixed safety ratings, with the four-door model earning four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection from NHTSA. IIHS awarded it "Good" in most tests, except for head restraints and seats. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and hill-start assist. Optional packages added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist maintained safe distances and recharged the battery through regenerative braking. The system had some irritations, such as the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction tech. Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park were available but not tested.