Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler – Which Off-Road Beast is Right for You?

The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler are two iconic off-road SUVs today. Each boasts a rich legacy and a loyal fan base. Whether you seek rugged off-road capability or modern technology for everyday driving, both vehicles have much to offer.

This article delves deep into the performance, off-road capabilities, interior features, safety technologies, and customization options of both models, helping you decide which off-road beast is suitable for your adventures.

Performance Comparison: Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler

The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler are renowned for their off-road prowess, and a key difference between them and ordinary car models lies in their engines and performance specifications.

When choosing between the 2024 Jeep Wrangler or the Ford Bronco, the choice involves more than just selecting manual or automatic transmission variants. These vehicles offer a range of engines designed to provide an advantage to various driving needs, from daily commuting to extreme off-roading. 

Engine Options

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco offer a diverse lineup of engines catering to different performance needs.

Engine	Ford Bronco	Jeep Wrangler
Base Engine	2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 270 hp, 310 lb.-ft. of torque	3.6L Pentastar V6: 285 hp, 260 lb.-ft. of torque
Tuned I-4	N/A	2.0L Turbo I-4: 270 hp, 295 lb.-ft. of torque
Optional V6	2.7L EcoBoost V6: 310 hp, 400 lb.-ft. of torque	3.0L EcoDiesel V6: 260 hp, 442 lb.-ft. of torque
High-Performance Engine	3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor): 400+ hp, 415+ lb.-ft.	6.4L HEMI V8 (Rubicon 392): 470 hp, 470 lb.-ft.
Hybrid Option	N/A	4xe Hybrid: Strong performance + electric-only driving

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler comes with one of four standard four-wheel drive systems. For those prioritizing pure power, the Rubicon 392 of the Jeep Wrangler Lineup with its 470-hp HEMI V8 outshines in sheer muscle.

On the other hand, the Ford Bronco Raptor has a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 that offers excellent torque and over 400 horsepower for a balance of power and efficiency. 

If sustainability or hybrid tech matters in your decision, the Wrangler's 4xe hybrid offers a unique, eco-conscious alternative unmatched by any Bronco Raptor offering.

Recommendation: The sizes of the engines can significantly affect a vehicle’s control, handling, and speed. Experienced riders who are confident in their abilities can benefit from the robust power of a 1000cc engine. However, if you’re just starting, opting for a 500cc engine is advisable, as it offers better control while you develop your riding skills.

Fuel Economy

Engine	Ford Bronco	Jeep Wrangler
Base I-4 Turbo	2.3L I-4 EcoBoost: 22 MPG combined, 24 MPG highway (auto)	2.0L I-4 Turbo: 22 MPG combined, 24 MPG highway
V6 Engine	2.7L V6 EcoBoost: 19 MPG combined	3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel: 25 MPG combined, 29 MPG highway
High-Performance V6	3.0L V6 EcoBoost (Raptor): 15 MPG combined	6.4L HEMI V8 (Rubicon 392): Lower efficiency
Hybrid Option	N/A	2.0L Plug-In Hybrid (4xe): 49 MPGe, 21 miles electric

In terms of fuel economy, the Jeep Wrangler has the advantage in terms of overall fuel efficiency. The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offers a 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel, offering up to 29 MPG highway, making it ideal for long-distance drivers.

Meanwhile, the 4xe Plug-In Hybrid of the 2024 Jeep Wrangler provides unmatched eco-friendly fuel economy with 49 MPGe and electric-only driving.

However, the Ford Bronco’s 2.3L I-4 EcoBoost balances fuel economy and off-road power with up to 24 MPG highway.

Overall Power and Performance

Engine	Ford Bronco	Jeep Wrangler
Base Engine	2.3L I-4 EcoBoost: 270 hp, 310 lb.-ft. of torque	3.6L Pentastar V6: 285 hp, 260 lb.-ft. of torque
Turbocharged I-4	N/A	2.0L I-4 Turbo: 270 hp, 295 lb.-ft. of torque
Mid-Level Engine	2.7L V6 EcoBoost: 310 hp, 400 lb.-ft. of torque	N/A
High-Performance Engine	3.0L V6 EcoBoost (Raptor): 400+ hp, 415 lb.-ft.	6.4L HEMI V8 (Rubicon 392): 470 hp, 470 lb.-ft.

The Ford Bronco offers a strong balance across its engines, with the 2.3L I-4 delivering solid performance and fuel efficiency, while the 2.7L V6 provides excellent torque for off-roading and towing.

However, when it comes to sheer horsepower, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392, with its 6.4L HEMI V8 producing 470 hp, outmuscles the Bronco, making it ideal for drivers who prioritize maximum power.

Off-Road Capabilities: Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler

Regarding off-road prowess, the Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler models are engineered to tackle rugged terrains confidently.

In addition to comfortable seats and seat options, each SUV has features that enhance its performance in challenging off-road environments.

Off-Road Feature	Ford Bronco	Jeep Wrangler
Terrain Modes	G.O.A.T. Modes (up to 7 driving modes)	Selec-Trac or Rock-Trac 4x4 systems
Off-Road Cruise Control	Trail Control	N/A
Tight Turns	Trail Turn Assist	N/A
Locking Differentials	Front & rear electronic locking differentials	Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials
Sway Bar Disconnect	Electronic sway bar disconnect	Electronic sway bar disconnect
Advanced 4x4 System	Two-speed transfer case with advanced 4x4	Rock-Trac 4x4 with low-range crawling
Off-Road Data	N/A	Off-Road Pages (pitch, roll, altitude display)
Badging	N/A	Trail Rated Badge (traction, water fording, clearance)

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco are exceptional off-road vehicles engineered for rugged terrains. 

The Jeep Wrangler excels with its Rock-Trac 4x4 system and Off-Road Pages for real-time data, making it the better choice for hardcore off-road enthusiasts. Its sway bar disconnect system lets users electronically disengage sway bars based on their convenience. 

Meanwhile, the Ford Bronco stands out with its modern features like Trail Turn Assist and Trail Control, making it an attractive option for those seeking an off-road vehicle with more user-friendly assistance.

Unique Feature: The Jeep Wrangler is the only vehicle currently available designed for driving with the doors entirely removed and the seat exposed, offering a unique open-air experience.

Interior Features and Comfort: Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler

The interior quality, features and comfort levels of the 2024 Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco are critical aspects that influence the overall driving experience. 

Both vehicles are designed to offer a blend of ruggedness and modern amenities, catering to off-road enthusiasts and daily drivers' needs.

Category	Ford Bronco	Jeep Wrangler
Seating Arrangements & Materials	Cloth upholstery in base models, leather in higher trims, heated seats, lumbar support	Cloth upholstery in base models, leather in higher trims, heated seats, lumbar support
Dashboard Layout & Technology	8-inch or optional 12-inch touchscreen; SYNC 4 with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation	7-inch or optional 8.4-inch touchscreen; Uconnect with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation
Cargo Space & Storage	Max 77.6 cu. ft. (four-door) with rear seats folded, slide-out tailgate	Max 72.4 cu. ft. (four-door Unlimited) with rear seats folded, removable cargo floor
Comfort & Convenience	Dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, 360-degree camera	Dual-zone climate control, remote start, forward-facing off-road camera

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco offer comfortable rear and front seats, with similar options for cloth and leather upholstery, heated steering wheel and seats, and lumbar support. Both vehicles' seat options are among the most comfortable SUV options in the market.

The Ford Bronco excels with a larger touchscreen and user-friendly SYNC 4 system. Some might note that the Bronco offers more space between the front seats and the windshield. However, the grab handles on both sides of the dash and near the center console seem awkward for the driver and the passenger.

Meanwhile, the Jeep Wrangler’s Uconnect system is slightly smaller but equally capable. Its grab handles are noticeable in their traditional locations beside windows. While interior quality remains on par with other premium vehicles, the Wrangler has a more cramped interior compared to the Bronco.

Cargo Space, Storage Solutions

Regarding cargo space, the Bronco’s maximum capacity is 77.6 cu. ft. gives it a slight edge over the Wrangler, which offers 72.4 cu. Ft.

However, both vehicles incorporate clever storage solutions. The Bronco's slide-out tailgate adds convenience, while the Wrangler's removable cargo floor enhances versatility.

Price and Trim Levels

The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler are highly regarded in the off-road vehicle market. They offer a range of trim levels to suit different preferences and budgets.

Understanding the base price, cost options, and the features included in various trims can help potential buyers make an informed decision.

Trim Level	(Cost) Ford Bronco	(Cost) Jeep Wrangler
Base Model	Base - $28,500	Sport - $28,295
Second Trim	Big Bend - $33,385	Sport S - $31,495
Off-Road Focused	Black Diamond - $36,050	Rubicon - $42,720
A mix of Luxury/Capability	Outer Banks - $38,955	Sahara - $38,645
Advanced Off-Road	Badlands - $42,095	Rubicon - $42,720
Extreme Performance	Wildtrak - $48,875	Mojave - $44,320

The Ford Bronco provides a well-rounded choice for off-road enthusiasts. It offers a slightly lower price point with robust features, especially for those new to off-roading or seeking a balance of comfort and capability–whether four-door configurations or other car setups. 

As with other types of SUVs, certain variants of both cars are only available for specific kinds. For instance, the Bronco Raptor is exclusively a four-wheel drive. 

The Jeep Wrangler is a solid car choice for hardcore off-roaders, particularly with trims like the Rubicon and Mojave, which excel in extreme terrain performance.

The Wrangler Mojave stands out as a capable car of choice if desert driving and specialized off-road performance are your priorities. At the same time, the Bronco Badlands offers similar capabilities at a lower price than a general off-roading car.

Did You Know? The YJ was the first model to carry the "Wrangler" name and debuted in 1987.

Customization Options and Accessories: Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler

One of the most notable aspects of the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler is how straightforward it is to customize each vehicle. Aside from having hard-top and soft-top options, the question of Bronco vs. Wrangler may be determined by their overall customization capabilities. 

Both manufacturers have designed these off-road machines with personalization in mind, offering many options to suit a wide range of preferences.

Customizing a New Bronco is Easy

For the Ford Bronco, customization is simple with multiple roof styles, including hard-top and soft-top options, two-door versions and four-door models–all of which are easy to swap or modify based on your adventures.

Thanks to various factory and aftermarket options, adding extras like roof racks, skid plates, and winches is straightforward. Whether you’re preparing your Bronco for rugged trails or fine-tuning its everyday look, customization is easy for both two-door and four-door models.

Tough Spare Tire Covers for Your Bronco
	Enhance your Bronco’s style and functionality with high-quality Ford Bronco Hard Tire Covers, painted-to-match or featuring a textured black finish. These American-made covers are designed to be Back-up Camera Compatible and are constructed from high-grade materials to protect your spare tire from harsh UV rays, preventing fading and cracking over time.
BROWSE BRONCO’S HARD TIRE COVERS

Customizing a New Jeep Wrangler Remains a Cakewalk

The Jeep Wrangler is equally effortless to modify. Known for its modular design, the Wrangler lets car users quickly switch up features like roof types, doors, and other components. Switching between options is simple: choose a soft top for summer or a hard top for rugged adventures.

With the Wrangler's wide selection of aftermarket parts, including spare tire covers, owners can easily tweak the vehicle’s exterior to match their unique style without needing expert help. Built for customization, the Wrangler provides near-endless flexibility, allowing drivers to adapt it to their needs and preferences.

Armor for Your Jeep’s Spare Tire
	Protect your Jeep’s spare tire while giving it a fresh look with high-quality Jeep tire covers. Designed for CJ, YJ, TJ, JK, JL Wrangler & Liberty, these American-made covers prevent UV damage, fading, and cracking. Choose from a variety of designs tailored for every Jeep Wrangler owner, and showcase your vehicle with a stylish, durable spare tire cover made with the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction.
VIEW ALL OPTIONS

Customize Both Vehicles With Tire Covers 

Naturally, both vehicles can be further personalized with Ford Bronco spare tire covers or Jeep Wrangler spare tire covers, which not only provide essential protection for the spare tire but also add a touch of personal flair. With a variety of designs available for both SUV models, these tire covers can enhance the overall look while ensuring durability during off-road adventures.

Whether you opt for the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler, car customization isn’t just possible—it's remarkably convenient and fun. 

Both SUVs make it easy for you to tailor them to your specific off-road journeys, all while ensuring that essentials like tire covers blend style with functionality.

Safety Features: Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler

The Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler are equipped with a comprehensive range of advanced safety package features to ensure occupant protection, whether navigating city streets or tackling rugged trails.

Safety Feature Type	Ford Bronco	Jeep Wrangler
Active Safety Technologies	Blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control	Blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control
Passive Safety Features	Front, side, and curtain airbags; reinforced frame; advanced seatbelt systems	Front, side, and curtain airbags; reinforced frame; advanced seatbelt systems
Unique Safety Features	Trail Control (off-road cruise control system)	Off-Road Pages (real-time off-road performance data)

The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler offer a strong suite of safety features, including comprehensive airbags and advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The Ford Bronco's Trail Control enables easier and safer navigation on rough terrain. At the same time, the Jeep Wrangler’s Off-Road Pages give SUV drivers crucial real-time data to enhance off-road safety.

Ultimately, both SUV models provide robust safety on and off the road, with minor differences. The Bronco focuses on convenience, and the Wrangler leans a bit more toward providing detailed control for off-road enthusiasts.

Fun Fact: McKinley Thompson, Detroit's first Black automotive designer, designed the Ford Bronco. Thompson also contributed to the iconic Mustang and Thunderbird models.

Pros and Cons of Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler

Ford Bronco

Pros	Cons
Advanced off-road features, including G.O.A.T. modes and Trail Turn Assist	No V8 or hybrid powertrain options, limiting performance variety
Spacious interior, perfect for long trips and carrying more cargo	Poorer fuel efficiency on more powerful engine trims, especially the Raptor
Modern retro design with rugged appeal and contemporary touches	Smaller aftermarket support compared to industry leaders like the Wrangler
Multiple engine options, including high-torque EcoBoost V6 for powerful performance	Larger dimensions make it less agile on tight off-road trails
Easy customization with factory accessories tailored for off-road enthusiasts	High-end trims come with steep price increases, nearing luxury SUV territory

Jeep Wrangler

Pros	Cons
Unmatched off-road capability, with Rock-Trac and locking differential capabilities	Less interior space, which can result in a cramped experience for long trips
Tons of aftermarket customization options for true personalization	Fewer modern tech features, especially in the base models
Offers a V8 and hybrid engine options, including a powerful V8 and efficient 4xe hybrid	Rough ride on paved roads due to off-road-focused suspension
Compact size for excellent maneuverability on narrow trails and rugged paths	High-end trims come at hefty price points, especially with more specialty equipment
Classic, timeless design that appeals to hardcore off-road enthusiasts	The V8 model is fuel-hungry, making it less practical for daily use

Final Verdict – Which is Right for You?

Answering the question of Ford Bronco vs. Jeep Wrangler as your new daily driver ultimately comes down to your priorities. The Ford Bronco is an excellent choice if you’re seeking modern off-road technologies, spacious interiors, and ease of customization with plenty of built-in features.

However, if you value proven extreme off-road capability, endless aftermarket customization options and the decades-long rugged charm that has defined popular Jeeps, then the Jeep Wrangler is a reasonable choice. Both offer fantastic off-road experiences depending on the model, but the right one for you will depend on whether you lean toward advanced tech or traditional off-road toughness.