2023 Lexus RX vs 2023 Ford Bronco

The 2023 Lexus RX featured a more compact and contemporary silhouette. It was shorter in height, broader in width, and extended in wheelbase, creating a distinct but familiar presence. The redesigned rear, with reduced overhang and smoother lines, along with the down-sloping black trim on the rear pillar, gave the RX a floating roof effect and a somewhat stubby look.

At the front, the RX’s spindle-style grille was seamlessly integrated into the design, showcasing a modern mesh texture and a dramatically elevated hood that swept into the windshield pillars. The sides echoed the upswept lines reminiscent of the Lexus IS sedan, which complemented the flared rear fenders. The rear of the RX sported new light-blade taillights, block lettering for the brand name, and a sporty bumper with simulated air vents. Overall, the RX’s design remained recognizable but enhanced, ensuring it looked fresh without alienating those who loved the previous model.

Inside, the RX's cabin was sleek and modern, with fewer buttons and knobs. It had digital instrumentation and either a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display, with optional head-up display. Voice recognition technology was intuitive, though subscription-based after three years. Quality materials included NuLuxe artificial leather as standard, but genuine leather and simulated suede were available. Various trims like real wood and aluminum added to the upscale feel.

The 2023 Ford Bronco exuded rugged charm with its retro-cool styling. The unmistakable blocky shape, horizontal grille, and large round headlights made it stand out. From the bare-bones Base trim with steel wheels to the bold Raptor with its wide stance and massive tires, each version carried a unique flair. The new Heritage trim evoked nostalgia with a white grille, roof, and unique plaid upholstery, while the Heritage Limited trim added capability.

The Bronco’s design had functional elements like cleats above the headlights for securing cargo, tree limb-lifter cables, and raised “fins” for better vehicle corner visibility. The interior had a rugged theme, with sealed switches and buttons, drain plugs, and marine-grade vinyl upholstery making it easy to clean. The practicality was enhanced with features like handholds, replaceable storage accessories, and mesh seat backs.

The RX 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It replaced the previous V6, offering better performance at higher altitudes and improved fuel economy, though it was less refined. Lexus provided different trims like Luxury and F Sport Handling, both with all-wheel drive and 21-inch wheels. The F Sport Handling trim featured an adaptive damping suspension for a smoother and more stable ride. The RX 350 FWD reached 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, and the AWD variant did it in 7.2 seconds, with fuel economy estimates of 25 mpg for FWD and 24 mpg for AWD.

The Ford Bronco had three engine choices. The base was a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 increased power to 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, available only with the automatic. The Bronco Raptor’s 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 delivered an impressive 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. All models had four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. The Bronco’s ride was bouncier than an average SUV but smoother than a Jeep Wrangler, and it provided confident handling and quieter interiors.

The RX 350 Luxury featured semi-aniline premium leather upholstery, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The RX 350 F Sport Handling had sportier, more bolstered seats covered in NuLuxe simulated leather, with the option for Rioja Red color. Both offered comfortable seating, though taller passengers might find the rear headroom tight. The RX had improved cargo space, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 46.2 cubic feet with the seats down.

The Ford Bronco’s boxy shape provided excellent interior space. The two-door model had 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 52.3 cubic feet with the seats down, while the four-door version offered 35.6 cubic feet and 77.6 cubic feet, respectively. Accessing the rear seats was easier in the four-door model. Functional features included netted door pockets, a rubberized tray, and accessory rails. The rear seats didn’t fold flat, leaving a step-up that hindered loading longer cargo.

The Lexus Interface infotainment system in the RX offered a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and several connected services. Drive Connect, free for three years, included intelligent voice recognition, though it had minor hiccups. User profiles could transfer preferences between Lexus Interface-equipped vehicles. The Mark Levinson 21-speaker premium sound system was notable but required adjusting for optimal audio quality. Other features included digital instrumentation, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and digital key smartphone technology.

The Ford Bronco utilized tech to enhance its off-road capabilities with G.O.A.T. drive modes, camera views, and features like Trail Turn Assist. These made off-roading easier for novices and gave seasoned drivers manual control options. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Ford’s SYNC 4, and a wireless charging pad. Most models had an eight-inch touchscreen, but a 12-inch display was available.

The RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including advanced driver assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. New semi-autonomous driving technologies like Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist were part of the suite, though some features had usability issues.

The Ford Bronco received four out of five stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection in NHTSA tests. IIHS rated the four-door Bronco “Good” in most tests, except head restraints and seats. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, hill-start assist, hill-descent control, and trailer-sway assist. The Mid, High, and Luxe packages added more advanced driver assistance features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.