Comparing the 2021 Ford Bronco versus the 2021 Jeep Wrangler

Ford has been making a huge splash in the off-road market with the return of its iconic Ford Bronco. The off-road SUV has been receiving a lot of attention since its release. With the 2021 Bronco, Ford made sure to modernize the Bronco and equip it with all it needs to take on both trails and roads. Built Ford Tough, the Bronco stands in direct competition with other off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler and Subaru Forester. In order to come out ahead, Ford had to equip the Bronco with technology that would push it further. This includes automatic on-demand engagement, a terrain management system called G.O.A.T, and other features that make it an optimal off-roader. We’ll be taking a look at one of the Bronco’s direct competitors, the Jeep Wrangler. We’ll pit it against the Bronco and see how they compare. 

Driving the 2021 Ford Bronco

The 2021 Ford Bronco handles quite well. The off-road SUV makes use of either a 2.7L EcoBoost six-cylinder or 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. The 2.7L is capable of 330 horsepower and 415lb-ft of torque while the 2.3L manages 300 horsepower and 325lb-ft of torque. While driving down highways or around the city, the Bronco feels smooth, almost like a regular SUV. This may be in part to its terrain management system which features several available G.O.A.T modes—Normal, Eco, Sport Slippery, Mud, etc. Somewhat disappointing are the thick pillars which can restrict the view out. There can also be some stiffness going over rough pavement.

The 2021 Bronco uses a 10-speed automatic transmission which pairs well with its engine. It can be a bit loud inside especially at full throttle, but the low-frequency hum is not too terrible. Thankfully with the 325lb-ft of torque, it’s never a mission to increase the Bronco’s speed. Alongside this, the four-wheel-drive system comes easy to use. By tapping a button on the center console, owners can easily select up to six different drive-modes depending on the terrain type. 

Driving the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler is fun to drive and lends itself to an open-air experience. The outside view is unobstructed which provides plenty of room to spot any would-be debris. The Wrangler makes use of a 3.6L V6 engine capable of 285 horsepower and 295lb-ft of torque. With its eight-speed gearbox, the Wrangler can hit 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. It’s also fuel-efficient.  

Compared to the Bronco, the Wrangler has a bit more agility. It’s got increased ground clearance and better approach, departure, and break-over angles provide drivers with a smooth driving experience, no matter the terrain. One downside to the Wrangler, however, is its solid front axle which incorporates recirculating-ball steering. The Bronco also features a live rear axle, but the Bronco utilizes a more modern control-arm front suspension with rack-and-pinion steering. Jeep isn’t too keen on independent suspensions, so this amounts to a somewhat choppy ride at higher speeds. Additionally, selecting a four-wheel-drive requires a firm pull on the transfer-case level compared to the simple knob in the Bronco.   

Verdict

The 2021 Ford Bronco and 2021 Jeep Wrangler are two good off-road SUVs. However, the Bronco drives a bit smoother given its configurations and driver-assist technologies. Meanwhile, the Wrangler proves ready for the toughest of conditions and terrain. Inside the Bronco, drivers will note ample room for cargo and passengers, with plenty of features that bring this classic model up to date. Inside the Wrangler, drivers will note an expansive view that’s marred by the clunky cabin. It can seem tight and at times even uncomfortable, but the Wrangler is known to be rugged.

We’re going with the 2021 Ford Bronco over the 2021 Jeep Wrangler based on the fact that it rides much smoother and offers convenient features that make driving enjoyable. Both are good SUVs, the Wrangler a bit more bareboned for extreme conditions, but for everyday driving in comfort, the Bronco wins out. 

Come Test Drive a Brand New Ford with us at Kenny Ross!

Interested in an all-new Ford Bronco? So are we! Come down to Kenny Ross Ford South where we can help you find the right vehicle for your needs. You can browse our inventory of new vehicles or check out our quality pre-owned inventory. At Kenny Ross, we’re more than happy to help our customers find what they are looking for. We can offer suggestions like auto financing to help make paying for a vehicle easier. 

Looking to finally fix the ride you currently have? You can also schedule an online service appointment and have our expert technicians provide you with everything you need to feel safe and secure on the road. Stop by today and see what we can do for you right now!

Photo Credit: Ford