Jeep Wrangler VS Bronco: Comprehensive Comparison for 2024

The Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco have been iconic off-road vehicles for decades, each with its own legacy and dedicated fan base. The Jeep Wrangler traces its roots back to World War II when the Willys MB played a pivotal role as a dependable and rugged military vehicle. In the post-war years, Jeep continued to refine its off-road pedigree with the CJ series, which ultimately transitioned to the Wrangler in 1987. Throughout its various generations, the Wrangler has maintained its signature aesthetic and unwavering ability to conquer challenging terrain.

On the other hand, the Ford Bronco first appeared in 1966, designed as an off-road competitor to the Jeep CJ-5. In its initial run, the Bronco experienced several transformations, going from a compact SUV to a full-size variant, catering to various needs and preferences of off-road enthusiasts. After a hiatus, the Ford Bronco made a much-anticipated return in 2020, reigniting the rivalry with the Jeep Wrangler. Comparing the newest models of these two legendary vehicles is essential for understanding their current prowess and capabilities, while also providing a look into the future of off-road adventures.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of both the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco are rugged, modern, and attention-grabbing, built to showcase off-road capability and distinctive character. They evoke a sense of adventure, fulfilling the needs of their target audiences.

The Jeep Wrangler maintains its iconic look, carrying the heritage of the brand with its seven-slot grille, round headlights, and trapezoidal wheel arches. The removable doors and roof provide versatility, allowing drivers to enjoy various open-air configurations. It also comes with functional features such as front and rear tow hooks, a fold-down windshield, and an available hardtop with a built-in power retractable soft top, or the manual soft top for purists.

On the other hand, the Ford Bronco displays a more modern take on the classic off-roader design, with a higher ground clearance and larger wheelbase. The Bronco's distinctive features include a bold front grille, round headlights with a horizontal LED accent, squared-off wheel arches, and a stamped "BRONCO" nameplate on the grille. The Bronco offers two types of removable roofs - a hardtop and a soft top. Further customization options include modular fenders, bumpers, and grille inserts for a personalized look.

When comparing the two vehicles side by side, one may observe the following exterior aspects:

Both the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco boast strong, functional designs that cater to their respective strong off-roading fanbases. Despite their differences, each model offers a unique take on the off-road, adventure-driven vehicle. With each vehicle's features and design elements crafted to satisfy the end user, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between these two titans in the off-road space.

Performance

When it comes to performance, both the Jeep Wrangler and the Ford Bronco offer powerful engine options and reliable powertrains.

The Jeep Wrangler is available with a 270-horsepower turbo 2.0-liter engine, which performs well in various driving conditions. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Wrangler can reach 60 mph in a swift 5.8 seconds, showcasing its impressive acceleration capabilities.

On the other hand, the Ford Bronco offers a 2.3-liter inline-four engine that produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine option is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing seamless power delivery.

Comparing the powertrain options:

Off-roading capabilities are an essential aspect of both vehicles' performance. The Jeep Wrangler is famous for its rugged build and Trail Rated® badge, ensuring it can tackle various terrains and weather conditions. It comes with a range of off-road features such as the Rock-Trac® 4x4 system and Tru-Lok® electronic locking differentials that significantly enhance its off-road prowess.

Similarly, the Ford Bronco has a strong off-roading heritage and comes equipped with various off-road features, like the Terrain Management System™ and the Trail Control® system, providing greater control and stability while traversing challenging landscapes.

In conclusion, both the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco excel in terms of engine performance, powertrains, and off-roading capabilities. While the Jeep Wrangler has a proven track record in off-roading adventures, the Ford Bronco holds its own with its robust engine options and innovative off-road features. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the buyer's individual needs and preferences.

Off-Road Capability

The Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco are both iconic off-road vehicles that have captured the attention of adventure enthusiasts for years. In terms of off-road capability, both vehicles offer impressive features and performance, making them strong contenders in this category.

The Jeep Wrangler comes with a standard V6 engine that provides 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle offers an array of engine choices to cater to different off-roading needs. Its robust suspension and solid axle design contribute to its exceptional off-road performance. Additionally, the Wrangler boasts various trims and packages, such as the Rubicon, which is specifically designed for enhanced off-road capabilities with features like electronic sway bar disconnect and locking differentials.

On the other hand, the Ford Bronco, reintroduced in 2021, is also an off-road-focused SUV available in both two- and four-door configurations. Ford offers two engine options for the Bronco: a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 with 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque or a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 with 310 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Bronco's Terrain Management System allows drivers to fine-tune their off-road experience with selectable drive modes, such as Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Baja, Mud, and Ruts.

In terms of off-road technology, both vehicles offer different levels of sophistication. The Wrangler features Jeep's Uconnect system, which provides access to off-road pages that display various performance metrics and assist with navigation. The Bronco, on the other hand, benefits from Ford's SYNC 4 system and its integrated Trail Maps feature, which allows users to access a database of trail information and download maps for offline use.

Both the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco are equipped with durable components that ensure they can handle the toughest terrains. Key features include:

• Jeep Wrangler:
  • Solid front and rear axles
  • High ground clearance
  • Four-wheel drive system
  • Available electronic sway bar disconnect and locking differentials (Rubicon)
• Ford Bronco:
  • Independent front suspension and solid rear axle
  • High ground clearance
  • Four-wheel drive system with selectable drive modes
  • Available front sway bar disconnect (optional on some models)

In conclusion, the off-road capabilities of both the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco are impressive indeed. Each brings its unique set of features and performance to the table, catering to different off-roading preferences and requirements.

On-Road Comfort

When comparing the Jeep Wrangler and the Ford Bronco in terms of on-road comfort, it is essential to consider factors such as ride quality, handling, and overall comfort for the driver and passengers.

In terms of ride quality, the Jeep Wrangler has a reputation for a more adventurous, rugged experience, which can result in a less comfortable on-road experience. On the other hand, the Ford Bronco features a softer suspension setup, making it more refined and smoother over bumps and irregularities in the road.

For handling, the Jeep Wrangler's more narrow wheelbase and higher ground clearance can result in less nuanced steering and a less stable ride on paved roads. On the contrary, the Ford Bronco benefits from a wider wheelbase and a more sophisticated suspension system, which contributes to a more comfortable and stable ride around corners.

Comfort inside the cabin is essential for both drivers and passengers. The Jeep Wrangler offers a functional, straightforward interior with the following features:

• Cloth or leather seating options
• Available heated seats
• Removable doors and roof for an open-air experience

The Ford Bronco, however, offers a more refined and modern cabin, with features such as:

• Cloth or leather seating options
• Spacious seating for easier entry and exit
• An upscale dashboard with advanced infotainment options

Overall, the on-road comfort for the Jeep Wrangler is better suited for those who value a rugged, off-road driving experience with a pure-functionality-based interior. In contrast, the Ford Bronco aims to provide enhanced comfort, with a smoother ride and a more refined cabin, without sacrificing off-road capability.

Interior Features

When comparing the 2024 Ford Bronco and the 2024 Jeep Wrangler, one can't help but notice the differences in their interior features. Both vehicles have worked hard to provide a comfortable and technology-rich experience, though there are some key differences between the two.

The Ford Bronco offers a modern and spacious cabin that is designed to be both functional and stylish. The dashboard is well laid-out, boasting a large and intuitive touchscreen unit at its center. The seats are comfortable, ensuring passengers can enjoy long drives without feeling cramped. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a variety of off-road centric features such as grab handles and an off-road navigation system, showcasing Ford's consideration for the vehicle's primary use.

In contrast, the Jeep Wrangler's interior is more rugged and focused on off-road functionality. The dashboard design is simple and uncluttered, providing drivers with an easy-to-use control layout. It also features a sizable touchscreen with the latest Uconnect infotainment system that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. However, the Wrangler leans heavily into its utilitarian roots, with a strong emphasis on durability and easy cleaning.

Both vehicles offer a range of seating options and trim levels, allowing buyers to pick the setup that best meets their needs. Here's a quick comparison table to highlight some key differences:

While the 2024 Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler both boast high-level interior features, their target markets may differ slightly. Those seeking a more luxurious and comfortable experience may lean towards the Bronco, whereas adventure-seekers focused on practicality and robustness might find the Wrangler's interior more suitable for their needs. Regardless, both models provide technologically-advanced features and versatile options, ensuring that any off-road enthusiast would be well-catered for.

Safety

When it comes to safety, both the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco offer modern features and technologies to protect occupants on and off the road. Although these off-road vehicles are designed primarily for adventure and performance, their safety aspects should not be overlooked.

Jeep Wrangler Safety Features

The Jeep Wrangler comes equipped with various standard safety features, such as:

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM)
• Advanced Multistage Front Airbags

For the 2024 model, the Jeep Wrangler starts offering advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) such as:

• Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Pedestrian detection

Ford Bronco Safety Features

The Ford Bronco is not far behind in terms of safety. Standard features include:

• AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™
• SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
• Belt-Minder® System
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Like the Wrangler, the 2024 Bronco also offers the Ford Co-Pilot 360 package of ADAS, which includes:

• Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Pedestrian detection

Starting with the Big Bend trim level, the Bronco additionally offers a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert.

It is important to note that safety scores should only be compared between vehicles of similar size and weight. As of now, there is no conclusive data available on crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for these specific 2024 models. However, based on past performance and the advanced safety features offered in both vehicles, the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco are expected to provide a high level of protection for their occupants.

Pricing and Trims

When it comes to the battle between the 2024 Ford Bronco and the 2024 Jeep Wrangler, pricing and trim options are essential factors to consider for potential buyers.

Starting with the Jeep Wrangler, the base model is offered at a competitive price of $31,895 for the two-door version. As for the Ford Bronco, its starting price is notably higher with a tag of $39,870. This increase in the Bronco's cost can be attributed to Ford discontinuing the base model, which raised the entry-level price.

Both models span a wide price range depending on the trims and options available. To provide a clearer and more informative comparison, here is a brief overview of the trim levels:

Ford Bronco

• Base
• Big Bend
• Black Diamond
• Outer Banks
• Badlands
• Wildtrak
• Everglades

Jeep Wrangler

• Sport
• Willys Sport
• Sport S
• Islander
• Willys
• Sahara
• Rubicon
• High Altitude
• 392 (High-Performance)

It is essential to note that both the Bronco and Wrangler's prices can increase significantly based on available options, packages, and trim upgrades. For example, the Bronco offers the Sasquatch package, which includes 35-inch tires and a lift kit, available for every trim level.

In terms of transmission options, lower trims of the two-door Bronco come equipped with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 275 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed manual transmission is standard on these lower trims, whereas the higher trims and all four-door Broncos receive a standard 10-speed automatic transmission.

With various options, trims, and customizations available for both the 2024 Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, potential buyers have a range of choices that cater to their preferences and budgets.

Conclusion

In this in-depth review, we've explored the key differences and considerations between the Jeep Wrangler and the Ford Bronco. Both vehicles offer their unique features and strengths, ultimately catering to different preferences of potential buyers.

The Jeep Wrangler has long been a popular choice among off-roading enthusiasts, thanks to its strong heritage and capable performance in various terrain. The 2024 Wrangler has received significant interior and technology upgrades, positioning it as a competitive choice.

In contrast, the Ford Bronco debuted in 2021 as a strong competitor, offering a blend of off-roading capabilities and on-road comfort. The selection of engines, including a powerful 6.4-liter V8, can cater to a diverse audience in terms of performance expectations.

To make the best decision, potential buyers should evaluate their priorities and how each vehicle's features align with their individual needs. Factors such as budget, performance requirements, and the importance of off-roading abilities will play a critical role in determining which vehicle emerges as the better choice.