The arrival of the 2021 Ford Bronco brings back the legendary nameplate. Moreover, it brings back the famous rivalry of the two most iconic SUVs of North America. Once again, we will enjoy the battle of two ultimate off-roaders, both designed to deal with the toughest parts of the United States. Therefore, we’ve decided to make a brief 2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco comparison.
In this review, we will discuss some of the most important aspects of the two SUVs, starting from design, off-road capabilities, powertrain, interior, price etc.
2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco – Design
When it comes to base design characteristics, the two models are quite similar. First of all, both models are genuine SUVs, which ride on a traditional body-on-frame platform. Also, the two models are quite similar in terms of size. Both come in two variants, with two or four doors. When it comes to two-door models, the Bronco is bigger and measures around 100.4 inches in wheelbase, while the Wrangler is good for about 96.8 inches. When it comes to four-door models, the Wrangle is bigger. It is good for about 118.4 inches between the axles, while the four-door Bronce is 2.3 inches shorter.
Another thing we should discuss is the fact that both models feature removable doors and roof. Still, the Bronco is in a slight advantage in this case, as it doesn’t feature full window frames on the doors, which means easier and more convenient removal. On the other side, Wrangler’s windshield folds forward onto the hood, which isn’t the case with Bronco.
2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco – Off-Road Performance
When it comes to off-road performances, both models come equipped with all kinds of advanced features. For example, Wrangler comes with all-terrain tires, lower-range gearing, electric front- and rear locking differentials, an electronic front sway bar disconnect and many other goodies. The Bronco comes with similar features, but it also stands out thanks to advanced traction management, which includes Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand driving modes.
Still, more experienced off-road drivers will probably care more about numbers. Therefore, this 2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco comparison also includes numbers. We’ve already mentioned wheelbase figures. Other important numbers to mention are those in terms of approach and departure angles. When it comes to approach angles, the Bronco comes in a wide range, depending on the version you choose. It goes from 35.5 to 43.2 degrees. In the case of Wrangler, the range is significantly smaller, but the max ratings are better, as you may count on up to 44 degrees. When it comes to departure angles, the Bronco ranges from 30 to 37 degrees, roughly. On the other side, the Wrangler goes up to 37 degrees.
When it comes to the ground clearance, Wrangler is good for up to10.8 inches, while the Bronco can go up to 11.6 inches from the ground. In the best case, the Wrangler’s brakeover angle goes around 27.8 degrees, while the Bronc is good for up to 29 degrees.
Engines
Another important aspect of this 2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco we should consider is the powertrain department. While Wrangler comes in three variants, the Bronco comes with two engines. Base Bronco comes with a 2.3-liter turbo-four, which puts out 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. On the other side, the base Wrangler relies on a naturally-aspirated 3.6-liter V6 engine, which is more powerful but has less torque (285 hp and 260 lb-ft). Torque plays an important role on hard terrains, so the Wrangler’s optional 2.0-liter turbo-four seems like a better choice. It is good for about 270 horses and 295 pound-feet of torque. Speaking of torque, Wrangler’s turbodiesel is definitely an ace up its sleeve. It offers 260 horsepower and an impressive 442 pound-feet of torque. Still, the Bronco isn’t torqueless either. It is available with a 2.7-liter turbo V6, which is good for pretty impressive 310 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.
When it comes to transmission, the Bronco comes with a really impressive 10-speed automatic gearbox. On the other side, the Wrangler is available with both automatic and manual transmission.
Another obvious advantage of Wrangler is that a plug-in hybrid version is on the way. Moreover, a version with a 6.4-liter V8 HEMI engine has been rumored as well, with the max output of 450 horsepower.
2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco Pricing
When it comes to the price, the two models are quite similar. The two-door Bronce will go around 28.500 dollars, while the Wrangler will be a couple of hundreds cheaper. The difference is more notable between four-door models. The Wrangler starts around 31.800 dollars, while the base four-door Bronco starts over 33.000 dollars. Mid-range options in both cases go around 40.000 dollars. The Bronco also comes in pretty luxurious versions that could go over 60.000 dollars. The Wrangler doesn’t play on fancy cards, so most expensive versions are those that are most capable. Of course, we are talking about the Rubicon model, which starts at around 42.000 dollars.
