2022 Ford Bronco vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX retained a design that harkened back to its first-generation model from 2002, with its signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights being the most notable updates. Despite its dated exterior, the interior of the GX was crafted with the high-quality materials and refinement that Lexus was known for, providing a quiet and comfortable cabin experience. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, with prices ranging from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding destination charges. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the GX 460 Premium, started at $80,550.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Bronco boasted attractive retro styling and a robust off-road capability that made it highly sought after. The Bronco lineup expanded with the introduction of the Everglades and Bronco Raptor models, designed for extreme off-road conditions. The Bronco offered a choice between two-door and four-door body styles, with options for a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine, and a removable roof. Its utilitarian design featured large recovery hooks, removable fender flares, and a full-size spare tire, appealing to off-road enthusiasts. Inside, the Bronco continued its rugged theme with features like marine-grade vinyl upholstery and drain plugs, while also offering modern technology such as a digital instrument panel and a large infotainment touchscreen.

The 2022 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. Despite its hefty curb weight of 2,325 kilograms, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. Its towing capacity was a respectable 2,948 kilograms. The GX's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved wheel articulation off-road and reduced body motions on pavement, though its steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 2.7-litre V6 engine with 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed manual transmission was available for the two-door model with the four-cylinder engine, while a 10-speed automatic was standard for the V6 and four-door models. The Bronco's off-road prowess was evident across its lineup, with models like the Wildtrak, Everglades, and Raptor excelling in challenging terrains. The Bronco also impressed on pavement, offering a smoother ride and better handling than its direct rival, the Jeep Wrangler.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seats and well-padded interiors. However, its narrow width and short length made rear seat access challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The GX's side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, especially in tight spaces. Cargo capacity was limited, with 328 litres behind the third row, 1,322 litres with the third row folded, and 1,833 litres with the second row down.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design maximized interior space, providing ample headroom and legroom. Cargo capacity varied by model and roof type, with the two-door hard top offering 634 litres behind the rear seats and 1,481 litres with them folded, while the four-door hard top offered 1,008 litres and 2,197 litres, respectively. The Bronco featured clever storage solutions and accessories, such as netted door pockets and stowable doors. Its utility was enhanced by external hard mounting points and removable fender flares.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation. The system was user-friendly, with excellent voice recognition and a dual-screen view. However, the placement of stereo controls below off-roading controls was awkward. The GX also included Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras.

The 2022 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, with G.O.A.T. modes and a forward-looking trail camera. The Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses, sharp graphics, and off-road apps, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Bronco also featured Trail Turn Assist for sharper turns in tight spaces.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also offered blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered standard safety features like hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features like frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Bronco received four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection from NHTSA, and "Good" ratings from IIHS for frontal, side, and roof strength tests.