Looking for a vehicle to take you farther off-road than ever before? A vehicle that can hold up to whatever the terrain throws at it—without giving up? With such a wide selection of SUVs and trucks out there, it’s a challenge for even the most seasoned car buyer to find the right vehicle for your adventures. How would two of the best off-roading vehicles on the market—like the 2022 Ford Bronco vs 2022 Jeep Wrangler—hold up, with both vehicles earning top praise for their rugged abilities?
The Basics
The 2022 Bronco from Ford begins at a low $29,300 and gives drivers a respectable estimated 20/21 mpg city/highway. With such an iconic brand as Ford, you know you’re getting a tough trawler engineered to work hard. It’s no wonder the Ford Bronco is one of the most popular choices in Ford’s lineup.
The Jeep Wrangler begins at an MSRP of around $40,745 and delivers an EPA-estimated 18/23 mpg city/highway. The Jeep Wrangler is no stranger when it comes to popularity. For decades, the Wrangler has remained one of Jeep’s star vehicles, and there’s no chance of that changing with the 2022 model.
Performance and Durability
Both vehicles feel as if they are neck-and-neck at first glance. They are both insanely popular models put forth by two well-known, homegrown brands. As usual, the devil’s in the details when finding the perfect vehicle to meet life’s demands. Plus, your outdoorsy life might just demand more from an SUV.
One look at the 2022 Ford Bronco’s rugged build and you can see it’s not a vehicle that fools around. It takes both hard work and hard play seriously. It was created for outdoor enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and adventurers from all walks of life. A stout, boxy body complete with LED headlamps, rear fender flares, and tie-down hooks makes the Bronco a signature stunner. No wonder Bronco topples the competition in the looks department. The new Bronco from Ford is eye-catching both on and off the road.
But it’s not just about looks, especially with a vehicle you’re willing to get dirty. The 2022 Bronco has substance, to be certain, with standard 4-wheel drive, 30-in. all-season tires, and a ground clearance starting at 8.4 in. This SUV is up for any task you put before it. Plus, with its 2.3-L Ecoboost Turbo engine, you’ll get 300 hp with 325 lb-ft of torque, making it quicker and easier than ever to navigate city streets or rocky desert landscapes alike. With a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and a cargo space maxing out at 77.6 cu.ft., you can bring along whatever gear your next adventure requires.
The 2022 Bronco comes standard with the High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension System. This system adds extra control when conditions get rough. Add to that its tough rock-crawling abilities of up to 67.7:1, when equipped with unique 7-gear manual transmission and steel bash plates, and the Bronco can take you wherever you want to go. To personalize your Bronco and take your next adventure up a notch, Ford gives buyers plenty of package options to enhance the already tough and capable vehicle and make it their own.
On the flip side is the 2022 Jeep Wrangler, which hasn’t changed all that much in the last few years, relying on its timeless, square design and round headlamps that have become an instant identifier to drivers across the world. Coming standard with 4-wheel drive, the Wrangler offers an improved, extra-strength windshield; half doors; and a ground clearance of 9.7 in. Offering a standard 3.6-L Pentastar engine, the Wrangler delivers 285 hp with 260 lb-ft of torque, giving you significant power and traction (though less than the Bronco does). Along with a healthy towing capacity of 3,500 and cargo room topping out at 72.4 cu.ft., you’ll be able to pack all the gear you need without having to leave anything behind.
A Wrangler is ready to traverse the most inhospitable terrain. Its great traction, superior suspension, crawl ratio of 100:1, and precise steering helps Wrangler drivers keep all 4 wheels on the ground. Easily take control of the situation when the trail turns rough.
Everything Else
While many people choose vehicles like the Bronco or Wrangler mainly for the purpose of off-roading, that doesn’t mean they won’t shine as your everyday ride as well. The 2022 Bronco, tough on the outside, is just as tough on the inside. Depending on the package you choose, the Bronco can be ordered to fit any lifestyle. Whether hauling gear for wild excursions or loading up for a simple weekend getaway, this off-roader has it all. If you’re planning on a solo trip or want to bring a group, the Ford gives the options of two- or four-door configurations, so you can easily pack in all the gear you’ll need. Or, if you want to take the doors off, the Bronco gives you that option, too!
The all-new Slide Out Tailgate can act as a step ladder to reach the roof rack, a table, or a seat. It conveniently slides into place under the floor, taking exactly zero space away from your cargo area. Also, Ford knows that when it rains it pours, so they installed rubberized flooring and drain plugs—features available for several of the more rugged packages, like the Raptor or Everglades editions. There’s no need to worry about water staining or soaking in the seats, either; Ford thought of that, too. Bronco seats are upholstered in marine-grade vinyl to resist spills and splashes.
Plus, to make the 2022 Bronco the complete package, tons of great features were added to the interior this year. For example, grab handles assist passengers in accessing the cabin, and provide a clutch for them as you sear over uneven terrain. Auxiliary upfitter switches with cut pre-run wires allow you to power lights, a stereo, and many other creature comforts you can’t do without. Personalize your 2022 Bronco with a range of different tops, roof racks, and winch kits, so you’ll have everything you need when the moment calls for it.
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler is a people-pleaser, with plenty of options for comfort, plus the latest tech to help keep the drivers connected—no matter where they are. The Wrangler lets buyers choose from a variety of top options, so they can let in as much or as little sunshine as they want. And, with plenty of interior options for storage, drivers can make the most out of the cargo room and store all the gear they’ll need. What if the trails get a little too muddy? The weather-resistant carpet easily lifts out, exposing the floor valves so drivers can wash and drain the interior. Jeep makes clean-up fast and efficient.
The Wrangler isn’t just built for hot sand or muggy swamps, either. When the temperature falls, the Wrangler has all the features drivers need to stay snug and warm. The SUV offers heated front seats along with a heated steering wheel. Plus, the heated exterior side mirror helps remove frost. Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control lets the driver and their passenger ride in comfort, too.
Never fear getting lost in the wilderness. The Wrangler’s available touchscreen navigation software and 4G hotspot enable connections with up to eight devices. No matter where you go, the Wrangler is a solid companion.
Choices Choices
If you’re looking for a vehicle up to the challenge, look no further. The 2022 Ford Bronco and 2022 Jeep Wrangler have you covered in more ways than one. Introducing some of the most advanced off-roading features ever, the Bronco and Wrangler are ready for that next adventure when you are.
The only problem? Deciding which one to bring along. Although, my personal preference is for the Bronco’s modernized aesthetics and an insane amount of equipment, so you can custom-fit a Bronco for your distinct outdoors adventures.
