2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Ford Bronco

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, with a supplemental electric motor powering the rear axle. Toyota estimated it could reach 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only SUVs in its class. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying more power as speed built. The engine hum was subtle under light acceleration but became a drone when more power was needed, especially on hills. Braking was traditional, with no discernible transition from regenerative to physical brakes. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension smoothing over bumps, and the cabin remained mostly free of wind and road noise on the highway.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 2.7-litre V6 engine with 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed manual transmission was available for the two-door Bronco with the four-cylinder engine, while a 10-speed automatic was mandatory for the V6 and all four-door models. The manual featured a seventh crawl gear for low-speed driving with high torque. All Broncos came with four-wheel drive and an electronic two-speed transfer case. Both powertrains delivered ample power, and the Bronco lineup offered varying degrees of off-road prowess. The Everglades model excelled in challenging terrain, with features like a snorkel and winch. On pavement, the Bronco's steering and ride quality were superior to its rival, the Jeep Wrangler, making it a better road trip companion. Wind noise was a minor complaint, but tire howl was absent, contributing to the Bronco's overall excellence.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with plenty of adjustments for drivers of all sizes. However, the driver's door armrest was just out of reach, causing an awkward lean. Storage was ample, with a deep tray under the infotainment screen, a small shelf in front of the passenger, and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats were spacious, accommodating six-footers with ease, and offered versatility with sliding and reclining captain's chairs. The third-row seat was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seatbacks folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's squared-off styling contributed to its spacious interior, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Accessing the rear seats in the two-door model required an awkward squeeze, but grab handles and side steps aided entry. 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. The four-door hard top increased capacity to 1,008 litres and 2,197 litres, respectively. Clever storage solutions included a large armrest bin, netted door pockets, and accessory rails atop the dash. The Bronco also featured stowable doors and removable fender flares, enhancing its utility.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option available on top trims. The system was quick to respond, with logically organized menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on Limited and Platinum trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were also standard on these trims.

The 2022 Ford Bronco smartly integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities. The G.O.A.T. modes provided off-road confidence, while the forward-looking trail camera offered visibility of obstacles. The Sync 4 infotainment system featured quick responses, sharp graphics, and helpful off-road apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth and an available wireless charging pad.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, a blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. The systems generally worked as advertised but could use some fine-tuning.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's standard safety features included hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features like frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA awarded the four-door Bronco four stars for frontal crash protection, while the IIHS gave it a "Good" rating in most tests.