2023 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Ford Bronco

The 2022 Ford Bronco captivated enthusiasts with its retro styling and robust off-road capabilities. It offered a wide range of trims, including the Everglades model, which was specifically designed for swamp trekking with features like an intake snorkel and 35-inch mud-terrain tires. Despite its rugged appearance, the Bronco was equipped with modern technology, such as G.O.A.T. modes for various terrains and a digital instrument panel. Its utilitarian design, with features like removable fender flares and marine-grade vinyl upholstery, made it a favorite among off-road adventurers. However, the high demand meant that the 2022 models were quickly sold out, leaving many potential buyers waiting for the next opportunity.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia presented a bold redesign, merging the Tundra's aggressive look with a more traditional SUV body. The interior, especially in the Capstone trim, exuded luxury with leather, wood, and metallic finishes, complemented by a massive 14-inch infotainment system. Despite its upscale appearance, the Sequoia's interior materials reminded drivers of its pickup truck origins. The Sequoia offered a range of trims, from the base SR5 to the off-road-focused TRD Pro. While it boasted impressive towing capabilities and improved fuel efficiency, the Sequoia's off-road prowess was somewhat limited compared to its predecessor, and its interior space was compromised by the hybrid powertrain.

The 2022 Ford Bronco came with a choice of two engines: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 2.7-liter V6 with 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The four-cylinder engine offered a seven-speed manual transmission with a unique crawl gear, while the V6 was paired with a 10-speed automatic. All Broncos featured four-wheel drive and an electronic two-speed transfer case, making them highly capable off-road. The Everglades model, in particular, excelled in challenging terrains, able to ford water up to 36.4 inches deep. On-road, the Bronco impressed with its smooth ride and precise steering, outperforming rivals like the Jeep Wrangler.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 hybrid engine, delivering 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain, combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offered substantial towing and payload capacities, with a maximum tow rating of 9,520 pounds. The Sequoia's fuel efficiency improved significantly, achieving up to 22 mpg with rear-wheel drive. Despite its power, the Sequoia's ride quality varied depending on the driving mode, with Sport mode providing the best balance of performance and comfort. However, the steering was slow, and the regenerative braking system felt heavy and unresponsive, affecting the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design translated into generous interior space, with ample headroom and legroom for passengers. The two-door model offered up to 52.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, while the four-door version provided up to 77.6 cubic feet. Clever storage solutions, such as netted door pockets and accessory rails, enhanced the Bronco's utility. The removable doors and fender flares added to its versatility, making it a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia excelled on highways, offering a quiet cabin with comfortable leather seats and a premium sound system. However, the panoramic sunroof reduced headroom in the second row, and the third-row seats were cramped due to the hybrid powertrain's battery placement. Cargo space was limited, with only 11.5 cubic feet available behind the third row, expandable to 86.9 cubic feet with all seats folded. The adjustable cargo shelf helped maximize space, but the overall utility was compromised compared to previous models and competitors.

The 2022 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, featuring G.O.A.T. modes and a forward-looking trail camera for navigating difficult terrains. The Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Trail Turn Assist and other off-road apps further improved the Bronco's performance, making it a tech-savvy choice for adventurers.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia featured a new Toyota Audio Multimedia system, with a 14-inch touchscreen in most trims. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Intelligent Assistant provided voice-activated assistance. However, the system had some quirks, such as glare on the display and occasional connectivity issues. The Capstone trim included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system, enhancing the Sequoia's technological appeal.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered a range of safety features, including hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional packages added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. The Bronco received favorable ratings from the IIHS, with "Good" scores in most categories, though its rollover protection was rated three out of five stars by the NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. While crash test ratings were not available at the time of review, the Sequoia's platform shared with the Tundra, which received high ratings from the IIHS, suggested strong safety performance.