Jeep Wrangler vs. Ford Bronco: The Ultimate Family SUV Showdown

Deciding between the 2024 Jeep Wrangler and the 2024 Ford Bronco is like choosing between steak and barbecue ribs; both have their strong points, both are messy, and neither one is exactly what you’d call “refined.” These aren’t your average SUVs; they’re go-anywhere, fun-loving behemoths with the additional chore of carting your family from point A to point B.

On one hand, the Wrangler is venerable, solid-axle history, and the sort of hardcore fan base that makes those of Harley riders seem low-key. On the other hand, the Bronco made a huge comeback, mixing classic looks with new tech, as well as an independent front suspension that Jeep loyalists like to believe isn’t real.

If you’re in the market for a family SUV that’s at home on the school run, solid footing on the Rubicon Trail, we’ll see which one stands on top.

Jeep Wrangler vs. Ford Bronco: Quick Spec Comparison

Before we get down into the dirt, here’s how these two off-road legends compare:

They each tout serious off-road capabilities, a removable roof and plenty of personality to make every drive an adventure. The real question is, which one is better at family life?

Trims & Options: What’s Available?

There are several trim levels of each SUV, from stripped-out base models to leather-draped rock crawlers.

2024 Jeep Wrangler Trims (4-Door)

• Sport – The simple no-frills off-roader with manual windows and locks (yes, they’re still a thing)
• Sport S – You gain power windows, locks and some creature comforts
• Willys – Old-school Jeep feels with bulkier tires and additional skid plates
• Sahara – More luxury, and less hardcore off-road emphasis
• Rubicon – Front and rear locking differential, sway bar disconnect, 33″ tires for off-road use
• Rubicon X – A higher grade of Rubicon with leather, a better sound system, and fancy trim
• 4xe (PHEV Hybrid) – 375 hp, 49 MPGe, and the “eco-warrior” of the bunch
• 392 – 6.4L V8, 470 hp – gains the power with a rumble that will wake up the whole neighborhood

Interesting Options:

• Sky One-Touch Power Top – A push of a button collapses the roof, for instant, open-air excitement
• Xtreme Recon Package – 35” tires, a factory lift, and yes, a ridiculous 12.9” of ground clearance
• Gorilla Glass Windshield – Less Likely to break from whatever it is that end up on a Wrangler’s windshield every day

2024 Ford Bronco Trims (4-Door)

• Base — A stripped-down base Bronco with cloth seats and steel wheels
• Big Bend – Brings in power features and a leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Black Diamond – Rugged bumpers, marine-grade vinyl seating, and a wash-out interior
• Outer Banks – Even more tech, nicer materials, and a street-oriented appeal
• Badlands – Upgraded suspension, four doors, and 33” tires
• Wildtrak — A desert-running high-speed desert runner, meaning bigger tires and tuned Bilstein shocks
• Everglades – Designed to take on water crossings, with a snorkel and additional skid plates
• Raptor – A 418-hp off-road beast that spits in the face of rough terrain

Interesting Options:

• Sasquatch Package – 35” Tires, Beadlock Capable Wheels, with Locking Differentials
• Washout Interior – Rubber floors with drain plugs—spray it down after a mud-filled day
• Removable Doors with Storage Bags – An easier process than removing Wrangler doors, with a designated space to store them

On-Road Comfort & Family Friendliness

Outstanding off-road capability, but you’ll be driving it on pavement most of the time. That’s where the Bronco has an advantage.

The Wrangler has a solid front axle, which adds to its old-school aura. It’s fine on the highway, but it goes a bit bouncy when the road gets potholey, and the steering is tuned for that “vague, just-guess-where-the-wheels-are-pointed” sensitivity.

The Bronco’s independent front suspension also makes it ride significantly smoother on the road. It drives straighter, so there’s less “correction” necessary on long drives. The interior also features more room and better fit and finish than that of the Wrangler.

When it comes to comfortable family road tripping, the Bronco is the winner among these two. Ride becomes less tiring, seats are more supportive, and there’s less wind noise.

Off-Roading: Who Does it Best?

If it’s hardcore rock crawling you have in mind, the Wrangler Rubicon is still king. Its solid axles, sway bar disconnect and 4:1 low-range gearing make it superior to the Bronco in slow, technical terrain.

The Bronco makes up some ground with better high-speed capability. If you picture off-roading as desert running, mudding or long trails of dirt, Wildtrak and Raptor trims feel like the party. Over the big hits, the fully independent front suspension is capable of soaking them up without making you feel like you are riding a mechanical bull.

The Wrangler is the winner for cramped trails. For a lot of thrills, the Bronco is the way to go.

Pros & Cons of Each SUV

Jeep Wrangler Pros:

✅ Timeless Jeep design with proven off-road history
✅ Tons of customization options
✅ Additional engines, such as the V8 and the plug-in hybrid
✅ This one’s better for rock crawling thanks to those solid axles

Jeep Wrangler Cons:

❌ Bouncy ride on pavement
❌ The car wanders on the highway
❌ Wind noise when the soft top is down

Ford Bronco Pros:

✅ Better handling and smoother ride
✅ Independent front suspension for increased comfort
✅ Larger infotainment screen with better tech goodies
✅ Much easier-to-remove doors with storage bags

Ford Bronco Cons:

❌ Less engine options (no V8 option)
❌ Optioned up dings your wallet
❌ A little less ground clearance for non-Sasquatch models

Final Verdict: Who is the victor?

If you’re going to be doing a lot of daily driving and family road trips, Bronco is the way to go. It’s more livable, more comfortable, and still absolutely a monster off-road.

And for the hard-core off-roaders who prefer tradition, the Wrangler takes the prize. If you’re into rock crawling, its solid axles and low-range gearing make it hard to beat Jeep.

Got a favorite? Tell us in the comments below!