
Ford’s 2025 Bronco remains one of the most versatile and capable off-road SUVs on the market. Designed to compete head-on with the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner, the Bronco offers a wide range of trims, engines, and customizable features to suit both casual adventurers and die-hard off-roaders. However, despite its rugged appeal, the Bronco comes with its fair share of compromises. From pricey upper trims to subpar fuel economy and noise issues, there are some real considerations for buyers.
What’s New for 2025?
Ford’s updates for the 2025 Bronco focus on comfort and convenience. Key additions include:
- A 12-inch digital driver display, now standard across all trims, previously exclusive to the high-performance Raptor model.
- Extra sound insulation across the lineup to improve cabin quietness, addressing one of the vehicle’s long-standing criticisms.
- Rear-seat climate vents for all four-door models, adding comfort for passengers.
- Simplified trim levels: Ford has reduced the Bronco lineup from nine to seven trims, introducing the retro-inspired Stroppe Edition along the way.
- A new 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen (B&O) audio system, available on higher trims, for audiophiles who demand premium sound on their journeys.
These updates make the Bronco more appealing for daily use, but the price increases on top trims may give budget-conscious buyers pause.
The Bronco’s versatility shines through its seven trim levels, ranging from the affordable Base model to the extreme off-road Raptor. Prices start at $39,895 (including destination fees) and climb to $91,930 for the fully loaded Raptor.
Base ($39,895)
- Basic but functional, featuring five G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) driving modes, LED headlights, and a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Aimed at purists or buyers looking to keep costs low.
Big Bend ($42,265)
- Adds conveniences like heated front seats, remote start, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
- Available Sasquatch and Black Diamond packages upgrade off-road capability, but those add-ons quickly inflate the price.
Outer Banks ($49,835)
- A more balanced choice, blending style and features. Adds powder-coated steps, 18-inch wheels, and heated cloth seats.
- Our recommended trim for most buyers, offering decent value without overloading the price.
Heritage Edition ($51,370)
- A throwback to the classic Bronco with retro two-tone paint and plaid cloth seats.
- Includes off-road-ready features like the Sasquatch package, but the styling appeal comes at a premium.
Badlands ($51,990)
- Tailored for extreme off-road enthusiasts, with features like a disconnecting front stabilizer bar, skid plates, and 33-inch tires.
- Its marine-grade vinyl seats and rubberized washout flooring scream durability but lack the comfort of higher trims.
Stroppe Edition ($77,530)
- Exclusively two-door, paying homage to the original Baja Bronco with bold graphics, Fox shocks, and upgraded off-road equipment.
- Cool factor aside, the steep price makes it more of a niche pick.
Raptor ($91,930)
- The ultimate off-road Bronco, featuring a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 with 418 horsepower, Fox adaptive dampers, and massive 37-inch tires.
- At nearly $92,000, the Raptor is undeniably capable but out of reach for most buyers.
Engines and Performance: Power and Efficiency Trade-Offs
The Bronco offers three engine options, starting with a standard 2.3L four-cylinder turbocharged engine (300 hp, 315 lb-ft). While capable, it feels underpowered compared to the optional 2.7L V6 (330 hp, 415 lb-ft), which makes off-road tasks like crawling and towing much easier. At the top of the lineup is the Raptor’s twin-turbo 3.0L V6, delivering 418 hp for high-speed desert racing.
- Pros: Impressive torque for off-road scenarios; standard 4WD; G.O.A.T. modes provide tailored performance for sand, mud, snow, and rock crawling.
- Cons: Mediocre on-road comfort and control; bouncy at higher speeds, with noticeable wind noise from the soft top.
The Jeep Wrangler remains a strong competitor with its plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain, offering better fuel efficiency and eco-friendly credentials. The Toyota 4Runner’s redesigned hybrid powertrain also raises the stakes in this increasingly competitive segment.
Fuel Economy: Falling Short of Expectations
The Bronco’s fuel efficiency is a glaring weak point:
- 2.3L engine: Up to 21 mpg highway.
- 2.7L engine: 19/21 mpg (city/highway).
- Raptor (3.0L engine): 15/16 mpg.
For comparison:
- The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid delivers 49 MPGe in electric mode and 20 mpg combined on gas.
- The upcoming Toyota 4Runner Hybrid promises superior efficiency without sacrificing off-road capability.
Interior: Comfort Meets Utility
The Bronco’s interior strikes a balance between durability and style, with removable doors and roof panels for open-air adventures. Marine-grade vinyl seats and rubberized flooring on off-road-focused trims emphasize functionality, but road noise and creaky soft tops detract from long trips. The two-door model offers cramped rear seats, while the four-door version provides better space for passengers and gear.
Cargo capacity lags behind competitors:
- Four-door Bronco: Max 83 cubic feet.
- Wrangler Unlimited: Max 72.4 cubic feet.
- Toyota 4Runner: 89.7 cubic feet.
Technology and Infotainment: Improved but Not Best-in-Class
Standard across all trims, the 12-inch touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, optional upgrades like the 12-speaker B&O audio system and navigation come at a premium. Competitors like the Jeep Wrangler now feature a 12.3-inch UConnect 5 system with seamless integration, while the Toyota 4Runner ups the ante with a 14-inch touchscreen on higher trims.
Safety Features and Ratings
The Bronco includes a solid array of standard safety features, including:
- Lane-keeping assist.
- Pre-collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
While it earns top scores in side crash tests, its three-star rollover rating and lack of hybrid options leave it behind competitors like the Wrangler 4xe.
Final Verdict: Is the 2025 Ford Bronco Worth It?
The 2025 Ford Bronco offers unmatched off-road prowess and customizable features, but at a cost. High prices, noisy interiors, and poor fuel economy may deter buyers who aren’t fully committed to off-roading. The Jeep Wrangler remains its most direct competitor, with hybrid options and a more extensive range of configurations. The redesigned Toyota 4Runner adds further pressure with modernized features and a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.
Call to Action: Don’t Overpay for Your Next SUV
Thinking about buying a Bronco or comparing it to other SUVs? Visit Quotes.EverymanDriver.com to access real-time dealer pricing on new and used cars. This free search engine helps you save hundreds, even thousands of dollars by connecting you with the best deals in your area. Thousands of buyers use it every day—start your search now and take control of your car-buying journey!