Starting at
Starting at
| 270-310 | Horsepower (hp) | 260-285 |
| Up to 11.6 | Ground Clearance (inches) | Up to 10.8 |
| 77.6 | Cargo Capacity (cu.ft.) | 72.4 |
The 2021 Ford Bronco vs 2020 Jeep Wrangler: The Comparison That's on All of Our Minds
You may have heard that the Bronco is making a return. If we are being honest, it's hard not to have heard the news about the 2021 Ford Bronco. Whether from the host of advertisements or through word of mouth, it's an exciting event in the automotive industry and deserves recognition. It's amazing that the historic Bronco hasn't been produced in over two decades now. While Ford is back with its Bronco offering, that means that there is one comparison that everyone is itching to make: the 4-door versions of the 2021 Ford Bronco vs 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. By comparing the highlights and drawbacks of each vehicle, you will be able to understand which one may be the best fit for you.
Both the Bronco and the Wrangler have histories dating back to the mid 20th century. Where the Bronco was designed as an all-encompassing off-road vehicle shortly after the mustang was released, the Jeep was created out of necessity in World War 2. Both vehicles evolved and changed dramatically over time, eventually growing a group of diehard fans for each model. But between these two icons of the off-roading scene, which one is the better all-around vehicle?
During the course of comparing these legendary off-road SUVs, it's important to keep the big picture in focus rather than harping on small details. For example, you may notice that the 2021 Ford Bronco has slightly less torque at the most expensive version of the Wrangler's engine. This comes at not only a lack of horsepower, but also at a very high price tag. When you look at overall performance, the clearly better engine lies in the Bronco.
Even though it may seem that way at first, the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Ultimate isn't a bad option at all. It is iconic in its own right and has a reputation for reliability, but it simply can't compete with the 2021 Ford Bronco overall. Realistically, both are great off-roading vehicles, but the 2020 Wrangler can't outshine the 2021 Bronco when they are stacked up against each other. The following will delve deeper into the differences between the two vehicles and outline why they are important to understand.
Whether you are looking to explore the wilderness, or if you plan on simply cruising down the highway, you ought to know about the engine options for the 2021 Ford Bronco. Two options are available for the vehicle. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine pumps out 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 2.7L EcoBoost engine is good for 310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are able to tow a maximum of 3500 lbs. For those who are seeking to conquer the roughest of terrains, the 2.7L engine would be for you. The horsepower on the Bronco is quite impressive and is the key reason it is such a powerhouse in the off-roading scene.
In contrast, the 2020 Jeep Wrangler has three different engines to choose from. The standard engine is the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, which produces 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also available with eTorque, which produces the same peak numbers but gives you a bit more muscle at low speeds. This is the main reason why the 2020 Jeep Wrangler loses out in the performance category. These numbers are quite unimpressive for those seeking to battle the elements with their vehicle.
The other options mostly follow the same pattern. The second engine is a 2.0L turbo that runs at 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. You can also get this engine with eTorque system. The fourth engine option is a 3.0L EcoDiesel engine, which pumps out 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. This engine is the only one that can rival the 2021 Bronco. Its torque is higher than the upscaled engine on the Bronco, but its horsepower falls short.
Overall, the Bronco wins out in this category. Yes, the 2020 Jeep Wrangler is able to pull ahead in the torque category with its diesel engine, but this comes at a high price, and it still isn't able to surpass the Bronco's horsepower. Every other engine model falls behind the legendary Bronco.
The safety category is often passed up when discussing off-road vehicles. The reality is that it should be considered more heavily than with other vehicle models since you are more likely to encounter rollovers or other dangerous situations in an off-roading setting than on paved roads. Luckily, the 2021 Ford Bronco has a host of safety features that make it a great option.
Some of these features include a matching spare wheel and tire, a front and second-row safety canopy side-curtain airbag, stability control, and a rollover sensor to deploy airbags effectively. These features are essential for any off-roader, as they ensure you will have the maximum protection available in case of an accident. The spare wheel and tire are required if you plan to go deep into trails or through rough terrain, as it ensures you will never be stranded because of a flat.
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler is a safe vehicle overall, but it just does not offer some of the great features that we have noticed in the 2021 Ford Bronco. For instance, there is no rollover sensor. In the case of a rollover, the Bronco has a more advanced system that deploys for all seats, regardless of whether a passenger is there or not. The only feature that is especially enticing on the 2020 Jeep Wrangler is the high-strength steel frame that Jeep has titled the "Full-Time Bodyguard," which seems to be a very sturdy chassis that should be more resistant to crumpling than other vehicles may have.
Overall, the 2020 Ford Bronco wins in the safety category. This is because of its advanced technologies and sensors. While the Wrangler has a high-strength chassis, it does not make up for its lack of safety features when stacked up against the Bronco.
There are many small details that add up to a superb experience in the 2021 Ford Bronco. For instance, the remote keyless access with push-button start is very useful in the convenience category. The model also has an instrument panel that is inspired by its first-generation model. This panel includes controls and gauges that allow you to better engage with the car.
As for the exterior, the 2021 Ford Bronco has a manual swing-gate that is able to open up to an impressive 150 degrees. The best part about the exterior of the Ford Bronco, besides its iconic look, is the bash plates and tow hooks. The Bronco includes two tow hooks on the front and one in the rear. And although a minor piece, the Bronco includes a bottle opener on the back, which is greatly valued when camping.
Finally, when comparing the 2021 Ford Bronco to the 2020 Jeep Wrangler, you can't go without mentioning that the doors of the Bronco are able to fit in the back, whereas the Jeep Wrangler does not have enough space to store the doors within the vehicle. This makes the 2021 Bronco much more versatile than the 2020 Wrangler.
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler has its aesthetic going for it. It's an easily recognizable vehicle that has been seen for decades crawling through the wilderness. But since the vehicle is made to be customizable, there are many features you see in the Bronco that you simply won't find in the Wrangler. Of course, you have the amenities of air conditioning and heating, but these basic features are all you will find in terms of the interior and exterior attributes.
Seeing that Jeep appears to want its Wrangler drivers to customize their vehicles rather than provide upscale features, the interior and exterior categories go to the 2021 Ford Bronco. It has many intriguing features that improve the experience of driving the vehicle that the Jeep Wrangler is not able to provide.
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Here at DePaula Ford, we are Ford enthusiasts and proud to say it. Ford has shown the ability to produce reliable and powerful vehicles consistently and is an incredible manufacturer to represent. If you don't believe us then you should come down to our Albany dealership to see the vehicles in person. After a test drive and a chat with our friendly staff, we are sure that you will agree that what we are saying is true. And by buying at DePaula Ford, you will be able to take advantage of our large inventory, expert staff, and commitment to customer service. So if you are searching for your next vehicle, please give us a call or drop by in-person to find your next car, truck, or SUV.
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
