Ford Bronco 2021: 5 features that put it ahead of the Jeep Wrangler

With the launch of the new BroncoFord has its sights set directly on the Jeep Wrangler. Yes, the two SUVs compare very well in terms of off-road specs, but there are some really cool features that make the Bronco a little easier to live with.

Placement of the side mirror.

In the Wrangler, the mirrors are mounted on the doors, which is fine until you want to remove the doors, something I encourage in a Jeep. Instead, the folks at Ford found a way to mount the mirrors to the Bronco deck, so they stay on when the doors are opened. It sounds simple, but after conversing with Ford designer Paul Wraith, there are thousands of ways this seemingly easy position change could go wrong, from sight lines to overall safety. It’s great that Ford has taken the time to solve this problem.

Trail Toolbox technology

I am 100% here for the Bronco’s Trail Turn Assist which locks the inner rear wheel during tight corners. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to do an incomplete three-point turn in a Wrangler on a narrow mountain trail. A pivoting feature should make those highlights a thing of the past.

Trail Turn Assist is part of what Ford calls the Trail Toolbox. It also includes Trail Control, which acts as an off-road cruise control. Frankly, I’m not too excited about this, as I personally enjoy the challenge of modulating the throttle over rough terrain, but I’m looking forward to trying out the Trail One Pedal Drive, which applies the brake as soon as you pick up the gas. Sure, expert SUVs may prefer left-foot braking, but the one-pedal system will be great for first-timers.

Front stabilizer bar

Then there is the front stabilizer bar, which is located on both SUVs. This little piece of engineering magic comes in handy when driving on pavement to keep overall handling in check. However, it can make it difficult to articulate the wheel when things get rough. Typically, like a Wrangler, you need to disconnect the front stabilizer bar before things get difficult. The Bronco, on the other hand, lets you do it on the go thanks to its hydraulic configuration. If you find you have a front wheel off the ground, just unplug that stabilizer bar and watch the wheel drop to find the rock.

35 inch tires

Tires are the only things that really connect your vehicle to the ground, and when off-road, bigger is usually better. It’s great that Ford offers 35-inch wheels directly from the factory in any of the Bronco trims. Sure, the Jeep has room for 35-inch wheels so drivers can buy some on their own, but that’s a lot of extra money, and then you have the 33-inch wheels in stock.

However, what remains to be seen is how well the tire chosen by the Bronco will perform. The company says the SUV will come with newly developed Goodyear Territory tires. Some may find it risky to go with untested rubber, when the BF Goodrich KO2 or Falken Wildpeak mud terrain tires that come on the Wrangler are great options.

It’s the little things

Finally, the Bronco impresses me with a series of thoughtful and functional design touches. There is a small dash mount shelf to secure your phone, GoPro camera, radio, and a host of other small electronic devices. There’s even a 12-volt power outlet for easy access to power. There are marine grade vinyl seats available that can be removed after a muddy day and Molle hooks onto the seat backs to organize smaller teams. Plus, the doors can be removed on the go and stored in the back, so if the weather changes on the go, you can seal your deck again pretty easily.

In Jeep’s defense, the company reportedly has some updates planned for the Model 2021 Wrangler that include the Off-Road Plus mode and front camera found in the current Gladiator pickup, as well as some improved transfer case options. . Also, Jeep recently showed the Rubicon 392 Wrangler Concept with a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 generating 450 horsepower, combined with a 2-inch lift, 37-inch tires and a selectable exhaust. Yes, this is just a concept for now, but Jeep knows its enthusiasts have been ordering a V8-powered Wrangler. “The new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept is an indication that they will soon be able to get their wish,” the company said in a statement.

We haven’t driven the Bronco yet, so we’ll reserve the final judgment until then. However, at first glance, it looks like he could be the new champion from the start.

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