The Bronco is one of the few new models that put off-road performance above all else. Customers are raving about this revamped SUV, with demand so high that . However, the Bronco has a major competitor that has been around for nearly 40 years plus. The Jeep Wrangler is similar to the Ford Bronco in equipment and rugged appeal. And the Wrangler has the edge in popularity. But how long can it stay on top?
Ford Bronco sales soared last year
According to Ford Bronco sales in the fourth quarter of 2022 were more than 23% higher than in the fourth quarter of the previous year. Additionally, the Blue Oval sold just over 117,000 Bronco units last year. This is an increase of more than 234% from 35,023 units a year earlier.
although buyers can pay extra for the 10-speed automatic.
The Bronco base trim can also be optioned with a 330hp twin-turbo V6. A 418-hp twin-turbo V6 is reserved for the Ford Bronco Raptor, which is the most expensive and capable trim. In addition to including all of the Bronco’s standard off-road equipment, the Raptor has upgraded axles and shocks. It also boasts extra chassis stiffeners and an adaptive suspension.
It also offers competitive ground clearance, approximately 13.1 inches thanks to the extra lift and 37-inch tires. That beats the Jeep Wrangler’s maximum ground clearance by 0.2 inches. The Raptor’s approach (47.2 inches) and departure (40.5 inches) angles are slightly less than those of the Wrangler Rubicon.
The Bronco base trim is still ready for adventure with 8.3 inches of ground clearance and GOAT riding mode. There are special settings for sand/snow and slippery roads, while other finishes add an extra setting for mud and ruts. Any Bronco can also be purchased with the Sasquatch package for locking diffs and nearly 12 inches of ground clearance.
Most Ford Bronco trims offer the option of two doors or four doors. Everglades and Raptor are available exclusively in four-door bodies. A wide range of safety features are also available across the range to keep riders safer on the trails. And Broncos with automatic transmissions get access to off-road cruise control.
The Jeep Wrangler is more popular (for now)
Although the Jeep Wrangler beat sales of the Ford Bronco in the fourth quarter of 2022, its year-to-date sales are down more than 14 percent. Its total sales in 2022 were also down 11% from the previous year. However, the Wrangler outsold the Bronco by nearly 65,000 units in 2022.
How can the Ford Bronco take down the Jeep Wrangler?
The Bronco is in a good position to overtake the Wrangler in sales, but only if Ford keeps improving.
claims the Bronco beats the Wrangler in value, comfort, and technology offerings. However, the latter has an available V8 and a wider range of 4WD systems.
The Jeep Wrangler also has an all-electric range of 21 miles. Though the Bronco’s turbo-four still gets better EPA-estimated mileage than the Wrangler 4xe’s gas-only mode, a little extra efficiency could broaden the Bronco’s appeal.
Even without electrification, the Ford Bronco may soon be America’s favorite off-road SUV.
