2024 Lexus GX 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 a wide stance, elevated height, and massive tires. The Heritage trim added nostalgic elements like a white grille, roof, and wheels, along with plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's design was not just for aesthetics; functional features like cleats above the headlights and raised fins helped secure cargo and provided better visibility of the vehicle's corners. 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 some creaking over bumps, but it was quieter than a Jeep Wrangler.

The 2024 Lexus GX embraced a new geometric styling, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor. The redesigned midsize SUV featured a less pronounced spindle grille, standard triple-beam LED headlights, and a more aggressive front fascia. The flat hood rose above each front wheel, aiding off-road positional awareness. The GX's profile was minimalistic, with a low window beltline for better visibility. Offered in six trim levels, the GX catered to both luxury and off-road enthusiasts. Luxury models boasted 22-inch wheels and ambient lighting, while Overtrail trims focused on off-roading with 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. The interior blended luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions. While less luxurious than some competitors, the GX was a premium SUV ready for hard use.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices, starting with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 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 with an 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 exhilarating. The Bronco's ride quality was bouncier than a typical SUV but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler. Despite its off-road focus, the Bronco maintained good on-road manners, though its high-riding dimensions required careful handling on curvy roads.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The torque was available low in the rev range, aiding off-road performance. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX had a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel drive, and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced off-road capability. The GX accelerated well and had effective brakes, though its weight required caution on long descents. Despite its size, the GX handled twists and turns with composure, and its on-road behavior was surprisingly relaxed.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape provided ample interior space, with the four-door model offering easier access to the rear seats. 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 design allowed for easy removal of fenders and doors, enhancing its off-road versatility.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons. It offered 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row, while the third row was tight for adults. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with it folded, and a total of 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet total.

The 2023 Ford Bronco featured G.O.A.T. drive modes for off-road novices, optimizing engine and suspension settings for various terrains. It also offered numerous camera views and the Trail Turn Assist feature for sharp turns. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available 12-inch display for ease of use.

The 2024 Lexus GX had a 14-inch touchscreen with USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with subscription services for voice assistance and remote features. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for features after the initial trial were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2023 Ford Bronco received mixed safety ratings, with four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection from NHTSA. IIHS awarded it "Good" in most crashworthiness tests. 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 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety offerings with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-tracing assist. While not yet crash-tested by IIHS or NHTSA, the GX's modern architecture and advanced driver assistance systems inspired confidence in its safety.