2022 Ford Expedition vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Ford Expedition underwent significant updates, featuring exterior styling revisions and enhanced infotainment technology. The front of the vehicle showcased a new grille, headlights, and bumper, while the rear was updated with revised taillights, tailgate trim, and a new bumper. Redesigned wheels were introduced across the model lineup, adding to the refreshed appearance. In Canada, the Expedition was available with a standard four-wheel drive (4WD) drivetrain and offered in XLT, Limited, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from just under $70,000 to over $95,000. The Timberline trim catered to off-road enthusiasts with all-terrain tires, suspension modifications, and off-roading tech. Inside, the Expedition featured a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, offering a large 15.5-inch touchscreen display. The Limited Stealth Edition, with its leather seats and impressive tech, provided a luxurious experience despite some F-150 pickup-grade plastic trim.

The 2023 Lexus GX made a bold statement with its massive spindle grille and 206 millimetres of ground clearance, giving it a commanding presence. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units and available in three paint colours. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs. The interior, however, was marred by a disappointing amount of plastic material, reflecting its low sales volume. Nevertheless, the GX offered luxury touches such as heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery. The GX's dimensions, including a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs, emphasized its off-road capabilities. The vehicle's design allowed for easier placement in technical driving situations, making it a practical choice for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2022 Ford Expedition was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 380 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 470 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth driving experience. The Expedition's fuel economy ranged from 12.9 to 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with a towing capacity of up to 4,173 kg (9,200 lb) when properly equipped. The vehicle's driving dynamics were enhanced by the Stealth Edition Package's sport-tuned suspension, although the 22-inch wheels contributed to a sometimes harsh ride quality. Despite its size, the Expedition was surprisingly easy to park, thanks to excellent outward visibility and features like front and rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system. On the highway, the Expedition excelled, offering a quiet and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long road trips.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided a satisfying sound and linear power delivery, it lagged behind more modern engines in terms of performance and fuel economy. The GX's towing capacity was 2,948 kilograms (6,500 pounds), making it more capable than most three-row crossovers but less so than other SUVs. The vehicle's weight contributed to its rolling through corners, although the roll was predictable and controllable. The GX's driving dynamics were improved by Lexus's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which leveled the vehicle in various driving conditions. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and standard four-wheel drive system enhanced the GX's off-road capabilities, making it a user-friendly option for challenging terrains.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered exceptional comfort and space, with features like electric running boards for easy entry and exit. The interior was spacious, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and comfort, while the third-row seat offered outstanding leg support. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,961 litres with both rear rows folded. The Expedition Max variant offered even more cargo capacity, making it a versatile choice for families and adventurers.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space for small items, with a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders. The interior featured hard buttons for controls, offering a tactile experience for users. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs and fold-out cupholders, while the third row was tight and best suited for occasional use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,832 litres with both rear rows folded. The side-hinged trunk door required effort to open, and the overall cargo capacity was less than that of a Toyota RAV4, making the GX less practical for carrying large loads.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured Ford's next-generation Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, with a 12-inch or optional 15.5-inch touchscreen display. The systems included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a connected navigation system. Higher trims offered wireless smartphone charging and premium sound systems. The Sync 4A system, while sophisticated, had some quirks, such as accidental activation of the defroster function and issues with Apple CarPlay. The Expedition also offered an upgraded rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV and Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 for easier trailer reversing.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen, offering SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. The GX included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and a CD player. However, the infotainment technology felt dated compared to other Lexus models, with lagging touchscreens and less crisp graphics. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System for improved driving dynamics.

The 2022 Ford Expedition was equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Expedition also offered BlueCruise hands-free driving technology for approved highways. While the adaptive cruise control performed well, the lane-centring assist had issues, such as steering the vehicle to the side of the lane and issuing unnecessary warnings, which could be frustrating for drivers.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it featured the Lexus Safety System+ with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Despite its older design, the GX included modern safety features, making it a safe choice for drivers.