2024 Ford Bronco vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with its upscale appearance. The test model, featuring Luxury trim, showcased impressive 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. The TX's design was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down aesthetic. Available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid series, the TX offered a range of options, though the TX 550h+ was not yet available. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and options for FWD or AWD. The test vehicle, priced at $67,869, included various packages and a dark Peppercorn interior, which felt somewhat dim despite the panoramic sunroof. Overall, the TX 350 Luxury model's interior met the luxury expectations of the Lexus brand.

The 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in the two-door model. The Sasquatch Package, a notable upgrade, added a suspension lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires, giving the Bronco a rugged, adventurous look. With nine versions available, including the Raptor, the Bronco offered a range of choices. The test vehicle, a four-door Big Bend trim with the Sasquatch Package, was priced at $55,415. The marine-grade upholstery, while durable, lacked breathability, potentially causing discomfort. The Bronco's interior featured an 8-inch digital display and a 12-inch touchscreen, with practical knobs and buttons for controls. Compared to the Jeep Wrangler, the Bronco's interior was more refined, though the spare tire on the tailgate obstructed rear visibility. Despite its quirks, the Bronco provided a unique and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds, or 7.8 seconds with AWD. The engine's performance was adequate, though the FWD model exhibited torque steer. The TX 350 FWD had an EPA rating of 23 mpg in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 20.4 mpg. AWD, costing an additional $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The TX 350's suspension provided a balanced ride, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt soft in the test model.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend featured a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. It offered a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine increased output to 330 hp and 415 lb-ft. The Bronco Raptor boasted a 3.0-liter V6 with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft, and a 4,500-pound tow rating. The Bronco's part-time 4WD system and various off-roading technologies enhanced its trail capabilities. However, fuel efficiency was a concern, with the Big Bend Sasquatch averaging 16.9 mpg during testing. Despite its off-road prowess, the Bronco's on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable wind and tire noise.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model featured premium leather and suede upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with captain’s chairs as an option. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, a significant improvement over past models. However, sliding the second-row seat forward to accommodate third-row passengers reduced comfort for those in the second row. The TX offered 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 Ford Bronco, particularly in the four-door model, provided ample interior space, surpassing the Jeep Wrangler. The marine-grade vinyl upholstery was durable but trapped moisture. The Bronco's roof and doors were removable, allowing for a customizable open-air experience. Interior storage was practical, with MOLLE panels for additional organization. The two-door model offered 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 53.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The four-door model provided more room, with 38.3 cubic feet of cargo space, increasing to 83 cubic feet with seats down. The optional hardtop slightly reduced cargo volume.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured an optional Technology Package, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, head-up display, and surround-view camera. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls were distracting, especially with polarized sunglasses. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Drive Connect subscription added cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also included Service Connect and Safety Connect subscriptions, along with Wi-Fi and Remote Connect features. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system provided excellent audio quality.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came standard with a 12-inch touchscreen Sync 4 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and inconsistent voice recognition were noted. The Bronco Trail App provided access to trail maps and information. The test vehicle's technology was limited, with an 8-inch digital display and basic steering wheel controls. The infotainment system's learning curve was short, but controls could be distracting while driving.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance, though it was not always transparent. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend included standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a backup camera. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, including lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors. The Bronco received favorable crash test ratings from the IIHS, except for its headlight performance. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the Bronco earned a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating.