2023 Ford Bronco vs. 2023 Jeep Wrangler

The rivalry between the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler is as fierce as it gets, and the automotive industry is taking notice. Both SUVs have an impressive history and legions of devoted fans, each claiming to be the true heir to the American four-wheel-drive throne. The 2023 model year marks a new chapter in this epic rivalry, with each model receiving design upgrades and a host of new features. Mud, dirt, and sand fly as this showdown begins anew.

The Jeep Wrangler has been the go-to vehicle for off-roaders since it debuted in 1986, but since the Ford Bronco’s 2021 revival, it’s become fierce competition. The Bronco is looking to make a name for itself as the premier four-wheel-drive SUV of choice, and both automakers have injected the vehicles with major upgrades to make them even more competitive.

At their core, the Wrangler and Bronco are four-wheel-drive vehicles designed to tackle anything you throw at them, but how exactly do they compare? To determine whether the fairly new Ford Bronco can dethrone the reigning Jeep Wrangler, we compare these two off-roaders in the categories that matter most to hardcore off-road enthusiasts. By the end of this epic showdown, one SUV will emerge to wear the crown of the four-wheel-drive king.

Brace yourself — it’s going to be a wild ride with a pure hunk of American muscle.

Performance, Engine, and Transmission

Richwood, Texas, drivers looking for an adrenaline rush behind the wheel will love the 2023 Ford Bronco with its available trio of engine options: a standard 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, a 330-horsepower 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6, and a high-performance 418-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6. All three pair with either a 10-speed automatic or a seven-speed manual transmission.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler offers drivers up to five powertrains: a 285-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6, a 270-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 260-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoDiesel, a 470-horsepower 6.4-liter V-8, and a 375-horsepower 2.0-liter 4xe plug-in hybrid. With these engiens, you can choose either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Bronco pulls ahead in many ways in the performance department. Its standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder produces an extra 55 lb-ft of torque compared with the Wrangler’s 3.6-liter V-6 — a definite plus. Ford also offers a unique seven-speed manual transmission with a crawler gear specifically designed for challenging low-speed off-road maneuvers. If you crave even more power, the Bronco’s 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission has more horsepower and an additional 105 lb-ft of torque compared with the Wrangler’s optional 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine.

Off-Road Capabilities

When it comes to tackling the most challenging terrains, both SUVs are well-equipped with features designed for off-trail adventures. The Jeep Wrangler maximizes its off-road capabilities with various four-wheel-drive systems, like the Command-Trac or Rock-Trac options, and other improvements, such as improved approach and departure angles for tight maneuvering. On the Bronco side of things, it boasts superior suspension articulation than its older model, and the Bronco Badlands model offers an advanced terrain management system with seven available GOAT modes: Sand, Slippery, Sport, Eco, Normal, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl.

The Wrangler also has some advantages in the off-road safety department, with its robust roll cage protecting passengers from dangers on the trail. But Ford counters with superior electronic front-and-rear locking differentials and a 33.5-inch water wading depth, which is around the same as the Wrangler’s 33.6 inches. Ground clearance favors the Bronco overall with 11.6 inches, compared to 10.8 inches for the typical Wrangler. However, the Wrangler Willys, Rubicon, and Rubicon 392 can get a max of 12.9 inches with the Xtreme Recon Package. The Bronco has a shorter wheelbase, further aiding its maneuverability where the Wrangler might struggle.

For those planning to take their off-roading adventures to a new level, the Ford Bronco wins out in off-road capabilities with additional features designed for extreme landscapes.

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

Both large SUVs seat up to five passengers, but their cargo volume and dimensions vary. The 2023 Ford Bronco has 43.1 inches of legroom for front-row passengers and up to 36.3 inches for those in the second row. It also gets 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space for the two-door variant and up to 38.3 cubic feet of space for the four-door variant. This space increases if you fold down the second row of seats.

In comparison, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler’s front-row passengers only have 41.2 inches of legroom. Those in the second row have 35.7 inches of legroom, with a cargo area offering 12.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats — significantly less than the Bronco. Again, the Bronco takes the lead in interior space and cargo capacity.

Tech Goodies

While the 2023 Jeep Wrangler is known for its off-road capabilities, its interior lacks in convenience and comfort. The 2023 Ford Bronco comes with an 8-inch infotainment display on the dashboard, a six-speaker stereo system, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. In addition, you can roll up your windows and lock your doors with the push of a button. The Wrangler’s touch screen, meanwhile, is smaller, and it comes with crank windows and manual door locks standard. Ultimately, the Ford Bronco is the more convenient and accommodating choice.

Safety

When buying a car, safety is a top concern. Luckily, the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport and the 2023 Jeep Wrangler deliver. The Bronco comes standard with a rearview camera, forward automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and forward collision warning. You can purchase additional safety features at an additional cost. The standard Wrangler only includes a rearview camera, but advanced safety features are available as options.

A New King Is Crowned

After comparing their engines, off-road capabilities, interior space and cargo capacity, tech, and safety features, it’s clear that the Ford Bronco has dethroned the Jeep Wrangler as the most desirable off-roading vehicle. While it may not have the same nostalgic fan base as its long-time rival, the Bronco is set to become one of the most sought-after SUVs in the industry.

Test-Drive the 2023 Ford Bronco at Yaklin Ford

To experience the power, performance, and capabilities of the 2023 Ford Bronco for yourself, come on down to Yaklin Ford in Richwood, Texas, and take the 2023 Ford Bronco for a test drive. We also offer a wide selection of new vehicles and used cars to choose from, and we provide expert advice to help you find the right Bronco for you. Contact us to learn more about our financing options and get the keys to your new Ford Bronco.