2024 Ford Bronco vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX presented a striking departure from its predecessor, the GX 470, with its bold geometric styling and less pronounced spindle grille. The new design featured standard triple-beam LED headlights and a more aggressive front fascia, with a flat hood that rose above the front wheels to aid off-road driving. The side profile of the GX was characterized by minimal character lines and a low window beltline, enhancing visibility. The SUV was available in six trim levels, with the Premium+ expected to be the best-seller. Luxury trims focused on opulence with features like 22-inch wheels and ambient lighting, while the Overtrail trims were tailored for off-roading with 18-inch wheels and durable upholstery. Inside, the GX combined luxury with utility, offering heated and ventilated seats, a 14-inch touchscreen, and physical controls for off-road functions.

The 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in the two-door model. The Sasquatch Package, a popular upgrade, added a suspension lift and 35-inch tires, giving the Bronco a rugged appearance. The Bronco was available in nine trims, with the Big Bend as the standard level. Buyers could choose between two-door and four-door body styles and three turbocharged engines. The test vehicle, a four-door Big Bend with the Sasquatch Package, offered a comfortable interior with marine-grade upholstery, though it lacked breathability. The Bronco's design allowed for an open-air experience with removable roof panels and doors. Interior storage was practical, and the cargo space was generous, especially in the four-door model.

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. This powertrain, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth acceleration and effective braking. The GX's GA-F truck platform offered a stiffer chassis, enhancing stability both on and off-road. Standard full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential were included, with the Overtrail trims adding a locking rear differential and the E-KDSS suspension system for improved wheel articulation. Despite its weight, the GX demonstrated controlled handling on-road and impressive off-road capabilities, though the full extent of its traction management systems was not tested due to weather conditions.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend came with a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission was available, and the Bronco's towing capacity reached 3,500 pounds. The optional 2.7-liter V6 engine offered 330 horsepower, while the Raptor model boasted 418 horsepower. The Bronco featured a part-time 4WD system with various G.O.A.T. modes for different terrains. Off-roading technologies like Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist enhanced its capabilities. The test vehicle's powertrain provided satisfactory acceleration and handling, though fuel efficiency was a concern. The Bronco excelled in off-road conditions, but its on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable wind and tire noise.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated than its predecessor, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. It offered comfortable seating for six-foot-tall adults in the first and second rows, though the third row was cramped. The GX excelled in cargo space, with up to 90.5 cubic feet available in Overtrail models. The Land Rover Defender 110 was a competitor, but the GX offered more cargo capacity and a longer body.

The 2024 Ford Bronco, especially in the four-door configuration, provided ample space for passengers and cargo. The absence of a rollbar in the rear improved comfort compared to the Jeep Wrangler. The marine-grade vinyl upholstery was durable but lacked breathability. The Bronco's interior was versatile, with removable roof panels and doors for an open-air experience. Cargo space was generous, with up to 83 cubic feet available in the four-door model with the soft top.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included Drive Connect and Remote Connect services, with a three-year trial period. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available in higher trims. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, subscription costs after the trial period were a consideration for long-term owners.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came standard with a 12-inch touchscreen and the Sync 4 infotainment system, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered FordPass Connect services and a seven-speaker stereo, with upgrades available for navigation and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The test vehicle experienced connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and voice recognition. The Bronco Trail App provided access to trail maps, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. While crash test ratings were not yet available, the modern GA-F architecture and advanced safety features inspired confidence in its safety.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend included standard safety features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, enhancing safety and maneuverability. The Bronco received favorable crash test ratings from the IIHS, except for its headlight performance. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the Bronco earned a four-star frontal-impact rating.