Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco – How Does the New 4×4 SUV Measure Up?

The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most iconic and recognizable vehicles in America today. With its circular headlights and signature grille, the Wrangler has been part of popular culture since World War II. However, it’s not the only 4×4 SUV with a following. The Ford Bronco, a fondly remembered off-road SUV, has finally returned. But how does it stand up to Iowans’ Jeep Wranglers?

Below, we are going to compare the Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco, to see which one is the better option. We will be looking at off-road performance, engine options, and overall design of the Bronco and Wrangler. Are you an Iowa Jeeper with a Mopar wish list? A former Bronco owner excited for the new release? Find out how your favorite off-road SUV stacks up below. If you’re loyal to the Toyota 4Runner, you will have to wait for a future comparison.

Now, let’s get started.

Jeep vs Ford: Which 4×4 SUV Has the Better Powertrain?

The new Ford Bronco has two strong engine choices: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo producing 270-horsepower, and a 310-horsepower twin-turbo V6. Ford has had success with its turbocharged engines, and it’s no surprise to see the Bronco debut with two turbocharged options.

Meanwhile, the standard engine on the Jeep Wrangler is a 3.6-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. All trims can also upgrade to a 2.0l turbo producing 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This is a solid upgrade on the V6 engine’s torque, and provides a range of benefits to Wrangler buyers in Ames.

While the Wrangler’s standard V6 falls right in between the Bronco’s available engines, its 3.0l diesel V6 provides far superior torque to either of the Bronco’s gas engines. With 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, the Wrangler’s turbodiesel engine has been a huge hit with Iowa drivers.

Upcoming Wrangler Engines

In addition to its turbo options, Des Moines shoppers will likely see new Wrangler powertrains at our dealership in early 2021.

First, there is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe. Already officially unveiled, it has electric motors to supplement its 2.0l turbo engine. Together, they produce 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. While some were unsure about the idea of a hybrid Jeep Wrangler, Iowa performance enthusiasts will be eager to test it on the trail.

There is also a Wrangler 392 Concept being tested, which matches the Jeep Wrangler with a 6.4l V8 engine that delivers 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. With a reported 0-60 mph time of less than 5 seconds, the Jeep Wrangler 392 will be unlike any Wrangler you’ve seen yet.

Off-Roading: Solid Axles vs Independent Front Suspension

This was one of the most controversial pieces of Ford’s Bronco announcement. Independent front suspension. Solid axles have long been considered an essential component of off-road capability. So why is Ford’s new 4×4 SUV releasing with independent suspension?

Ford answered this question themselves. The automaker has long been very public about the rigorous testing it uses on its vehicles. According to Ford, the Bronco has an independent front suspension to improve its performance on sand. By their estimation, the benefits of independent suspension outweighed the cons.

Even hardcore Jeep Wrangler fans might agree an independent suspension has benefits during regular driving. But it is harder to convince them that it is just as good for off-roading.

One major factor that Jeep owners have pointed out, is that the Bronco will have inconsistent ground clearance. When it comes to a real off-roading situation, Wrangler drivers like to know exactly what to expect from their machine.

Independent suspensions are also much more expensive to lift. At Deery of Ames, we know a lot of Jeep Wrangler owners who chose to lift their vehicle. Off-roading social media groups are already planning for how they will replace the Ford Bronco’s front suspension. And remember, the Bronco hasn’t even hit dealers. The debate between solid axle vs independent suspension was thought to have been settled, but Ford has reignited it in earnest with the highly anticipated Bronco.

Customization Options: Can Ford Match Mopar?

Whether you live in Iowa, New York, or anywhere else in the USA, there’s a good chance you’ve seen a customized Jeep Wrangler. With their rugged capability and character, and an enormous catalog of aftermarket parts, Wrangler SUVs have long been the ideal platform for customization. Maybe you want a lift kit, badging, exhaust, grille modifications, or a unique top. Mopar has you covered.

Meanwhile, Ford announced that 200 factory accessories would launch with the new Bronco. This answered one of the big questions about the Ford Bronco, but it will be months before we see what the customization options really look like. Ford definitely appears committed to building an accessory ecosystem around the Bronco lineup, but it will be playing catchup to the Mopar catalog.

Jeep Wrangler vs Ford Bronco? Not Yet.

Iowa Jeep fans, off-road enthusiasts, and auto blogs have been running the comparisons on these American SUVs. It makes sense. They are both targeted to the same kind of owners, both offer rugged 4×4 capability, and they both have an iconic, retro identity. But really, there is no comparison.

The Ford Bronco is entering the ring with the tried-and-true Jeep Wrangler. Ford may very well roll out a highly competitive, comprehensive Bronco lineup. But they haven’t done it yet. It is easy enough to compare the specs of the Jeep Wrangler vs those of the Ford Bronco. But the real-world examples and personal experiences of the Bronco just aren’t there like they are for the Wrangler.

The previous Bronco, discontinued over 20 years ago, has earned the love and recognition of thousands of Iowans. And while it is sure to be popular once it hits dealers, we don’t yet know how it will compete against the Jeep Wrangler in the real world. That’s especially true if customization is important to you.

What do you think about the new Ford Bronco vs the Jeep Wrangler?

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