2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Ford Bronco

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged appearance. However, the side profile introduced a softer character line that swooped over the rear wheel arch, reminiscent of the Toyota Supra and Sienna. This design choice added unnecessary visual weight, making the Highlander appear somewhat bloated. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Inside, the Highlander's unconventional asymmetrical dash was interrupted by a metallic styling element, creating a helpful storage tray. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned high on the dash, reducing driver distraction.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford Bronco offered nine distinct trim levels, each with a blend of retro-cool styling and modern engineering. Its blocky shape, wide horizontal grille, and round headlights were unmistakable. The Base trim had a primitive look with steel wheels, while the Raptor trim showcased a wide stance and massive tires. The Heritage Edition trim added nostalgic elements like a white grille and plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's styling was not just for aesthetics; functional features like cleats above the headlights and raised fins aided in cargo securing and obstacle navigation. The interior continued the rugged theme with a broad dash, sealed switches, and waterproof upholstery, making it easy to clean after off-road adventures.

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 an electric motor powering the rear axle for additional traction. Toyota estimated a 0-100 km/h time of just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying more power as needed. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension smoothing over road bumps, and the cabin remained mostly free of wind and road noise.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices: a 2.3-litre four-cylinder with 300 horsepower, a twin-turbo 2.7-litre V6 with 330 horsepower, and a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 in the Raptor with 418 horsepower. All Broncos featured a four-wheel drive drivetrain and a two-speed transfer case. The base engine was adequate for on- and off-road adventures, while the Raptor's engine provided exhilarating power. The Bronco's ride quality was bouncier than typical family SUVs but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler. Despite its high-riding dimensions, the Bronco felt confident on curving roads, and the interior was quieter than expected.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options included a deep tray under the infotainment screen, a small shelf, and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs, while the third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape provided ample interior space, especially in the four-door model. Up front, there were numerous storage options, including netted door pockets and a rubberized tray. The two-door Bronco offered 634 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,481 litres with the seats folded, while the four-door model provided 1,008 litres and 2,197 litres, respectively. The rear seats didn't fold flat, creating a step-up that hindered sliding longer cargo. The Bronco's fenders and doors were easily removable, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

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 higher trims.

The 2023 Ford Bronco incorporated technology to enhance its off-road abilities, with G.O.A.T. drive modes optimizing engine and suspension settings for various terrains. Numerous camera views aided in navigating tight spaces, and the Trail Turn Assist feature allowed for sharp turns. The Bronco also offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Ford’s SYNC 4 and FordPass Connect as standard. Most Broncos came with an eight-inch touchscreen, with a 12-inch display available for easier use.

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, and a blind-spot monitor. The systems generally worked well but could use some fine-tuning, particularly the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

The 2023 Ford Bronco received partial crash test results from the NHTSA, with four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it a "Good" rating in most tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, hill-start assist, and trailer-sway assist. The Mid package added features like a blind-spot monitor and lane-keep assist, while the High and Luxe packages offered additional safety enhancements.