The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler are two off-road legends. These iconic SUVs have been locked in a fierce battle, each boasting impressive features and capabilities perfect for outdoor adventures. If you’re weighing your options between the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler, this comprehensive comparison by our team at Planet Ford Dallas will help you determine which one suits your needs best. We’ll cover everything from off-road capability to daily driving comfort and ownership experience to help you make an informed decision.
Both the Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler specs are engineered for off-road excellence, but they take different approaches.
The Ford Bronco has a high-performance off-road stability 4.0 suspension. Its available BILSTEIN shocks and independent front suspension provide better control at high speeds and a more stable ride on highways and uneven ground. For added traction, the Bronco offers up to seven goes over any terrain modes. Although the Wrangler’s solid axle suspension offers excellent articulation and durability, it may feel rougher on paved roads. Jeep’s four-wheel-drive systems, including Rock-Trac and Command-Trac, provide maximum traction on trails. The Wrangler’s Xtreme Recon Package boosts off-road performance with additional features such as a sway bar disconnect, ideal for rock crawling.
The Ford Bronco’s ground clearance varies significantly depending on the trim and options. The standard models offer 8.3 to 11.6 inches of ground clearance. The Bronco Raptor boasts an impressive maximum ground clearance of 13.1 inches, thanks to its specialized suspension and larger tires. The Jeep Wrangler also offers commendable ground clearance, but it generally falls short compared to the Bronco. Its ground clearance ranges from 9.7 to a maximum of 12.9 inches, depending on the specific trim and configuration.
While both vehicles excel off-road, you may spend a lot of time on tarred roads. Let’s see how they perform in everyday driving conditions.
Thanks to its independent front suspension, the Bronco delivers a smoother ride on highways and city streets. This design minimizes body roll and improves stability. Reviewers note that the Bronco handles better at higher speeds than the Wrangler. The ride is more composed, even on uneven surfaces, due to its longer wheelbase, which enhances overall stability. The Wrangler’s solid axle suspension, while great for off-road articulation, can feel less refined on paved roads and tends to deliver a bumpier ride.
The Bronco’s handling feels composed, with a 70-mph stopping distance of 189 feet. It offers a skidpad grip of 0.75 g, showcasing its balance and agility. The Jeep Wrangler’s 191-foot stopping distance and 0.69 g skidpad grip highlight its slightly less composed performance on tar roads. The Bronco’s steering is steady and easily controllable on both highways and city roads. This makes it feel more modern and user-friendly.
The vehicle’s wider stance provides better handling with a sense of security during cornering and lane changes. The Wrangler’s handling can feel outdated due to its design. The steering may feel light and lack feedback due to its older recirculating ball system, which can make highway driving less engaging. While the Wrangler is agile in tight spaces due to its compact size, this agility comes at the cost of overall stability on open roads.
Buying a capable SUV is about more than just performance — it’s also about long-term ownership satisfaction. We explore the Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler reliability and cargo capacity.
Historically, the Wrangler has scored well in reliability, receiving 80 out of 100 from J.D. Power for the 2024 model. Its proven drivetrain and simpler mechanical setup contribute to fewer issues over time. While the Bronco offers impressive features, long-term reliability data is still emerging due to its recent reintroduction. The 2024 model was rated 77 out of 100 for reliability by J.D. Power. Early feedback indicates good build quality, but it’s yet to match the Wrangler’s established track record.
The Ford Bronco leads with up to 65.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, accommodating more gear for long adventures. It offers 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The Jeep Wrangler offers up to 77.6 cubic feet of cargo space and 35.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats when you choose a four-door model. Both provide more than enough space for everyday convenience and off-road adventures.
The high-end Wrangler 392 and Bronco Raptor models are ideal if you’re looking for the ultimate in off-road performance. The 392 is the best off-road Jeep Wrangler. It’s powered by a 6.4-liter V-8 engine that delivers a whopping 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It offers exhilarating acceleration, and a visceral exhaust note, making it the most powerful Wrangler to date.
The Raptor is the best Bronco for off-roading. It features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 that produces 418 horsepower. While it’s less powerful than the Wrangler 392, the Raptor’s wider stance, specialized suspension, and enhanced off-road features make it a formidable competitor in desert racing and high-speed off-road scenarios. Although the Wrangler 392 takes the crown for raw power, the Bronco Raptor’s sophisticated off-road enhancements give it an edge in high-speed off-roading.
When comparing the Ford Bronco vs. Wrangler, it’s clear that both vehicles are designed for off-road capability. The Ford Bronco offers a more balanced approach with its independent front suspension that caters to both off-road capability and on-road comfort. Its advanced suspension and traction management systems make it versatile in various conditions. The Jeep Wrangler, with its solid axle setup, excels in extreme off-road situations but may sacrifice comfort and handling on regular roads. This makes the Bronco a better option if you prioritize a well-rounded driving experience. Visit Planet Ford Dallas to test-drive the Ford Bronco today.
