Landmark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram knows that a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) needs to be durable, reliable, and a high-performer on multiple terrains. With that in mind, we've put together a comparison of two popular SUV options: the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. Each has their own pros and cons, but which is better?
The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most recognizable off-roaders in the world thanks to its distinct square exterior profile. It is known for its high performance capabilities throughout the years, such as impressive approach and departure angles.
Every model year, Jeep tries to optimize performance and meet drivers changing needs. The newest Wrangler models offers a variety of engine options to achieve this. The base engine is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine that offers a horsepower of 285 and a max torque of 260 lb-ft. For those looking for a hybrid option on this classic SUV, the Wrangler has an available 2.0L Turbo PHEV engine that does not skimp on off-roading capability with a max horsepower of 270 and 295 lb-ft of torque.
For drivers looking for even more power, the Wrangler is also available with a 6.4L HEMI® V8 engine that is ideal for off-road driving. This engine has a max horsepower of 470 with 470 lb-ft of torque. The last engine option is the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine that is designed to go the distance with a driving range of 530 miles, 260 hp, and 442 lb-ft of torque.
The Wrangler is available in both manual and automatic transmissions based on engine selection. The base 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine has a manual transmission with reliable power and automatic transmission with additional low-end torque that is ideal for off-roading needs when paired with the Wrangler's reliable solid front axle and rear locking differentials.
The plug-in hybrid electric PHEV engine available on 4ex models has the best fuel economy out of all the Wrangler powertrains. The PHEV engine can get 49 mpg for combined city and highway driving (actual miles will vary). For those not interested in a hybrid engine, don't worry. The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine has the second-best economy with up to 29 mpg on the highway (actual miles will vary).
The Jeep Wrangler boasts an impressive interior with comfortable seating and spacious cargo with line-up of standard equipment. It can be upgraded to include such as heated front seats and dual-zone automatic temperature control. Jeep also knows that having adaptable cargo storage is important offers the Trail Rail system and Jeep Utility Grid as available features.
The interior of the Wrangler also features a line-up of standard connectivity abilities and advanced tech. Base models feature a 12.3" touchscreen with Bluetooth connection to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For those looking for the best sound to fuel their adventures, the Wrangler can be upgraded to include a nine-speaker Alpine Premium Audio system, which is paired with an overhead soundbar and all-weather subwoofer.
For the exterior for the Jeep Wrangler, drivers can choose between many top options, including: the Zipperless Black Sunrider Soft Top, Premium Black Sunrider Soft Top, the Sunrider HardTop, Black Freedom Top Three-Piece Hard Top, and the Sky One-Touch Power Top. This SUV also has LED lighting features such as Reflector Headlamps, Fog Lamps, and Daytime Running Lamps.
For further customization, drivers can select the signature MOPAR Door-Off Mirror Kit that allows the front doors of the Wrangler to be removed without removing the side mirrors. This mirror upgrade is ideal for drivers who plan to take this Jeep on tight trails.
The standard safety features for the Wrangler include adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam LED headlights, forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring. The ParkSense Rear Park Assist System and the ParkView® Rear Back-Up Camera make parking a breeze, as well.
Jeep offers four main trims for the Wrangler, each of which is geared to meet a specific need for an experienced off-roader. Additionally, drivers can upgrade to the Xtreme Recon Package, which includes 35-inch tires to elevate the ground clearance of this vehicle to 12.9 inches and up to 33.6 inches of water fording depth. The Xtreme Recon Package is only available in Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and Wrangler Willys trims.
The Sport trim is configured with a 2L engine, a four-wheel drive type, and an 8-speed automatic transmission with a five-person seating capacity. The maximum cargo space for this SUV is 72.4 cubic feet. The Sport trim has a Command-Trac 4x4 traction configuration.
The Sahara trim has many of the same mechanical features as the base model, with a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and a gross combined weight rating of 8,117 lbs. With 18-inch alloy wheels and an 8.4-inch Uconnect 4 touchscreen, this Wrangler is the only trim that comes standard as a four-door model.
The Rubicon is one of the most beloved trim levels with an exclusive Rock-Trac 4x4 configuration that lowers the gear to a 100:1 crawl ratio perfect for off-road trail riding. The Rubicon comes standard with 33-inch all-terrain tires.
The High Altitude is the top trim for the Wrangler and features leather upholstery and other visual upgrades, such as a body-color hardtop. This SUV has 20-inch alloy wheels for increased durability and performance.
With the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited upgrade, any of the Wrangler's trim levels can become four-door Wranglers. This is a significant upgrade for trims that are only available in two-door configurations, such as the Sport and Rubicon. Upgrading to the Unlimited package gives the SUV more cargo space and interior space for passengers.
Many features of the Ford Bronco are similar to the Wrangler, but the Bronco has an overall smoother, less rugged exterior profile. Let's take a quick look at the Bronco base specs.
The powertrain options for the Bronco include a 2.3L or a 2.7L EcoBoost I-4 engine. These engine options have electric power-assisted steering and a max torque ranging between 315 to 400 lb-ft. The 2.3L engine has a turbocharged 300 hp, while the twin-turbo 2.7L V6 engine has a max horsepower of 330.
Some models of the Bronco include a seven-speed manual transmission on two-door models and a 10-speed automatic transmission on four-door models. The 10-speed automatic transmission is available with Trail Control and is compatible with trims such as the Outer Banks and Wildtrak.
The fuel economy of the Ford Bronco is rather low. For the automatic transmission, the SUV only gets 20 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The upgraded Sasquatch Package with the V6 engine has an even lower fuel economy of 17 mpg for both the city and highway (actual miles will vary).
The interior features include standard cloth seating, a six-way manual driver and passenger seat, and 60/40 split-fold rear seats for four-door Bronco models. The standard air condition is a single zone climate control package.
The exterior features of the Bronco include a 150-degree manual swing gate, soft top and hard top options, and tow hooks. The side view mirrors include options such as heated, power glass, manual fold, and in-color finish. For optional exterior upgrades, drivers can opt for a heavy-duty brush guard, tube doors, and a wheel lock kit. The base Bronco also has a removable door and roof panels for open-air driving.
The technology on board the Bronco is relatively simple, with access to SiriusXM radio, FordPass Connect, and an SYNC 4 eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Ford supports Remote Keyless Entry and Push-Button Start for optimal convenience, as well as Dual Smart Charging USB ports and 911 Assist for roadside assistance.
The Bronco comes with standard safety features such as the Personal Safety System, Safety Canopy, automatic high-beam headlamps, and Trailer Sway Control. For assistive technology, the base model comes with a rearview camera embedded with Backup Assist Grid Lines and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control.
The first edition Bronco base trim level has all the makings of a reliable off-roading vehicle with an independent front suspension, a Terrain Management System, and more. Some drivers may want to upgrade to the Sasquatch Package, which includes 35-inch tires, front and rear locking differentials, and high-gloss aluminum wheels.
The key features of the Big Bend trim include a G.O.A.T driving mode for going off-road with LED fog lamps and 255/74 all-terrain tires that give good ground clearance. This trim has additional paint color options, such as Area 51 teal.
The Black Diamond trim adds more heavy-duty features to accommodate off-road driving. These upgrades include overhead auxiliary switches, rubberized seats, and washable flooring.
The Outer Banks trim is designed to optimize luxury with heated front-row bucket seats, dual-zone climate control, and active Co-Pilot 360 safety features. The Outer Banks trim has an electronic center console with added storage space and other upgrades, including a 12-inch touchscreen and wireless charging pad. This trim also has 18-inch wheels.
The Ford Bronco Badlands trim is certainly a souped-up option with upgrades such as rock rails, bash plates, and a hydraulic front sway bar. The best upgrade on this trim is the addition of the Rock Crawl driving mode and 33-inch all-terrain tires.
The Wildtrak trim is ideal for off-roading on soft terrains, such as deserts. Some of the upgrades on this trim include locking front and rear axles, higher suspension clearance, and seven driving modes. Heated cloth seats and leather seats are also available options.
The Ford Bronco Raptor is the only trim level that has four-wheel drive with independent front suspension and massive 37-inch all-terrain tires. The Ford Bronco Raptor is the most powerful trim and comes with a standard 3.0L EcoBoost engine. The Bronco Raptor also has a 10-speed automatic transmission.
While both the Ford and Jeep SUVs have optimized the off-road driving experience, it's easy to see that the Wrangler is the better sports utility vehicle. Beyond any technology upgrades, the off-road capability and performance of the Wrangler easily outshine the Bronco - even upgraded trims like the Bronco Raptor can't hope to compete. Furthermore, the Wrangler has a better cargo area, rear seat configurations, and engine options to customize your off-road driving experience.
While the Ford Bronco certainly tries to keep up, this off-road vehicle ultimately falls short on the standard features and off-road capability included in the Jeep Wrangler. Whether you want to try out the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited or the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, you can be confident that the Wrangler offers more performance and flexibility for everyday use. Get in touch with Landmark Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram at 816-836-0100 to take a Jeep Wrangler out for a test drive today.
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