2022 Ford Bronco vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design that required some getting used to. Its blunt and bulbous nose, combined with black windshield pillars, created a floating roof effect, while swollen haunches attempted to balance the styling. Despite its cartoonishly-flared quarter panels, the Highlander’s design was expected to become more familiar over time. The interior offered a two-tone look with soft leather in higher trims, but the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy detailing could suffer from reflections. Controls were well-organized, though nighttime illumination appeared busy.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Bronco boasted retro styling and a rugged, go-anywhere attitude. It offered a wide range of trims, including the Everglades model, designed for swamp trekking with features like an intake snorkel and 35-inch tires. The Bronco's design was unapologetically utilitarian, with short overhangs, low-profile bumpers, and modular construction for easy customization. Inside, it continued the utilitarian theme with marine-grade vinyl upholstery and drain plugs for easy cleaning. Despite its ruggedness, the Bronco included advanced technology like G.O.A.T. modes and a digital instrument panel, making it both capable and modern.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving an EPA rating of 36 mpg in combined driving. With a total output of 243 horsepower, it offered front-wheel drive as standard, with optional all-wheel drive. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While the Highlander Hybrid improved in fuel efficiency, it sacrificed driving enjoyment. The power was adequate but not thrilling, and the engine sounded strained during acceleration. Steering was lifeless, though regenerative brakes performed well. The ride was soft, with noticeable body movement, making it less enjoyable on uneven roads.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and an optional 2.7-liter V6 with 330 horsepower. Both engines used turbos for ample power, and a seven-speed manual transmission was available for the four-cylinder. All Broncos featured four-wheel drive and an electronic two-speed transfer case. The Bronco excelled off-road, with models like the Everglades handling challenging terrain effortlessly. On pavement, it provided a smoother ride than rivals like the Jeep Wrangler, with precise steering and reduced driver fatigue. Wind noise was present but not intrusive, and the absence of tire howl added to its appeal.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited offered comfortable seating for the driver and front passenger, with power adjustments and heated, ventilated seats. Second-row captain’s chairs were standard, but a bench seat option increased capacity to eight. However, the Highlander felt narrow, and the third-row seat was uncomfortable with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage was adequate but not as generous as previous models, with some design choices limiting accessibility.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design maximized interior space, providing ample headroom and legroom. Accessing the rear seats in the two-door model required some maneuvering, but grab handles and side steps aided entry. Cargo capacity varied by model and roof type, with the two-door hard top offering up to 52.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Clever storage solutions included netted door pockets and accessory rails. The Bronco also featured stowable doors and removable fender flares, enhancing its utility. External mounting points and hidden anchors supported additional cargo and accessories.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The top infotainment system featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and navigation. User-friendly controls included large knobs and shortcut buttons, though the sound system's quality varied. Driver Easy Speak projected the driver’s voice to rear passengers, and a video rearview mirror provided a clear view behind the vehicle. The driver information display offered detailed data and settings adjustments.

The 2022 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance off-road capabilities while keeping drivers engaged. G.O.A.T. modes optimized settings for various terrains, and a forward-looking trail camera provided confidence on challenging paths. The Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses and off-road apps, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. A wireless charging pad complemented the tech features, making the Bronco both capable and connected.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had some inconsistencies, but overall, the safety systems were effective. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.

The 2022 Ford Bronco included standard safety features like hill-start assist and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features like adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Bronco's safety systems performed reliably, with no false alarms. NHTSA awarded the four-door model four stars for frontal crash protection, while IIHS gave it "Good" ratings in most tests.