Ways the Jeep Wrangler Beats the Ford Bronco
Brought to you by Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Wilmington, NC
Were you considering a 2021 Jeep Wrangler but you are holding off because you've caught wind of the 2021 Ford Bronco? Well, there's no question that the new Ford Bronco will be a strong contender in the segment but, truth be told, it's no Wrangler. Why is that? Let's quickly examine some of the differences between the new 2021 Bronco vs the 2021 Jeep Wrangler and see why!
Is there a difference in engines?
Yes, there is. The 2021 Bronco is slated to have two gas engine choices: a 270-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 310-hp twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6. Both of these seem like decent engine choices but the Jeep Wrangler, can be optioned with Jeep's 260-hp turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V-6. That's right, a diesel! This is an engine that offers a full 442 lb-ft of torque and makes for a vehicle that gets great fuel economy, and is a towing workhouse to boot.
What about off-road capability?
If you are a serious off-roader, you know that solid axles are the best for rugged terrain. Why? Because solid axle vehicles are much easier to "lift" and put big tires on. For many Jeepers, this is an important thing. The issue with the 2021 Ford Bronco is that it will have an independent suspension system. While there is nothing wrong with independent suspensions -they do provide a nice comfortable, on-road ride- they generally are considered a poor suspension for serious off-roading.
Does the Bronco have a fold-down windshield
OK, this may be a minor item to some, but to many Jeepers, fold-down windshields are a big part of the deal. In fact, the current Wrangler made this feature easier than ever to deploy. Frankly, nothing is more fun than off-roading with your top off, doors removed, and the windshield folded down; its part of the off-road experience. For some reason, the folks at Ford didn't put a fold-down windshield on the 2021 Bronco. It will be interesting to see if they do with subsequent generations.
And what about the 4x4 hot-rod set?
Want some serious horsepower with that 4-wheeling? The recently announced Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept features a genuine 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 rated at 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. With a strengthened eight-speed automatic transmission, that 450 lb-ft of engine torque flows to third-generation Dana 44 axles with Tru-Lok electronically locking differentials and 3.73 gears. Jeep is obviously courting the hot-rod set with his one.
What is planned for aftermarket support with the 2021 Bronco
This one is big. The Wrangler is arguably the most modified vehicle in the world, and aftermarket popularity isn't likely to change anytime soon. While Ford plans to have a few hundred factory accessories available at the launch of the Bronco, this is going to pale next to an entire industry just making aftermarket parts for Jeeps. Yes, assuming the Bronco is a hit, the aftermarket will come around with lots of goodies but this won't be for some time.
Still want to see the 2021 Bronco?
No question, the new Bronco will be a nice vehicle. It is designed to appeal to the broader 4x4 set and has the backing of none other than Ford behind it. However, if you are considering a purchase of your dream 4x4, we urge you to consider the Jeep 2021 Wranglers. You can't argue with success. Wranglers have been made for decades and hundreds of thousands are on road today.