As the new off-roader on the block, the 2022 Ford Bronco gets lots of attention from other drivers. But does it impress one of the most hardcore Jeepers out there? Our own Mr. Dennis Wood drove the new Bronco Badlands 1500 miles from Texas back to Utah.
At 116", the Bronco 4-door has the same wheelbase as the JK Wrangler Unlimited. The JL Wrangler/Wrangler is a little more than 2” wider than the Bronco (66.4” vs. 64”). Those specs can change with aftermarket suspensions, axles, and wheels and tires.
The Bronco’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 is rated at 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque versus the Jeep’s turbocharged 2.0-liter 270/295 hp/tq. Despite the Bronco’s power advantage, Dennis says the Wrangler feels quicker off the line. He was impressed, however, with its passing power.
Mr. Wood is impressed with the Bronco’s on-road ride and handling due to its independent front suspension and rack and pinion steering.
Stay tuned for future off-road driving impressions by Dennis.