Chris Nikel Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat

Mar 21, 2025
2025 Jeep Wrangler

The off-roading battle heats up again as the Jeep Wrangler takes on the 2025 Ford Bronco. These dirt-loving vehicles have been around for decades — the Wrangler with its World War II roots and the Bronco dating from 1966. Both have fresh updates, and the competition is fiercer than ever. Our team at Chris Nikel Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram FIAT (CJDRF) in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, has a Bronco vs. Wrangler comparison for you.

Why the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco Dominate the Off-Road Market

There’s a reason these two SUVs rule the trails. Remove the doors and windows for a memorable adventure, and take advantage of their four-wheel-drive (4WD) systems and superior ground clearance that can conquer obstacles that stop regular SUVs in their tracks.

Wrangler’s 4xe hybrid now claims 25% of the model’s sales, demonstrating the desire for increased mileage without losing off-road capability. Ford’s base Bronco answers with multiple gas engine options. Both offer hardtops, soft tops, and tech that makes rock crawling more fun.

Design and Aesthetics: Classic vs. Modern

The 2025 Wrangler keeps its timeless, squared-off shape, seven-slot grille, and round headlights that come straight from its military roots. The Ford Bronco’s design nods to its freewheeling past while adding modern lines and striking exterior details, including a prominent grille and wide fender flares.

Going doorless is important if you’re a fan of either model. The Wrangler has doors and roof panels you can completely remove for those perfect summer days. You can enjoy the open air in the Bronco as well, and its more modern styling belies its off-road capabilities.

Jeep Exterior Styling: Iconic Looks With Modern Touches

Wrangler wheel options range from basic steel rims to fancy alloys, depending on your budget. The Bronco offers a Bimini top on higher trims, plus a slide-out tailgate on four-door models that’s a perfect spot to relax after hitting the trails. Both brands took inspiration from the ’60s and added modern touches without losing what made the originals special.

Jeep Trim Options Compared To Bronco: Customization Galore

Jeep offers plenty of Wrangler choices for 2025. Regular gas models include six trims: Sport, Sport S, Willys, Rubicon, Sahara, and Rubicon X. The 4xe hybrid line features seven trims: Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Willys ’41, Rubicon, Backcountry, and Rubicon X. Each has a distinct character — from the basic Sport to the trail-ready Backcountry to the luxurious Rubicon.

Bronco counters with seven trims: Base, Big Bend, Heritage Edition, Outer Banks, Badlands, Stroppe Edition, and Raptor. The Heritage appeals to your nostalgic side, while the Raptor targets speed seekers. Both vehicles offer packages that transform looks and capabilities, allowing two identical models to become completely different vehicles. Only your budget determines how personalized yours can be.

Interior Layout and Ergonomics: Comfort Meets Functionality

Inside these 2025 models, comfort meets function. Top-trim Wranglers sport nappa leather seats, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and 12-way power seat adjustment. The Bronco counters with leather-trimmed vinyl seats and 10-way power adjustment in higher trims.

The Bronco wins on cargo capacity. Four-door hardtops provide 35.6 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats (77.6 with the rear seats folded), while Wrangler four-doors manage 31.7 and 72.4 cubic feet. Both blend ruggedness with technology and create livable spaces for long adventures, whether you’re rock climbing or road tripping.

Performance and Capability: Unleashing the Power

Look under the hood, and you’ll find serious muscle. The Wrangler offers V-6 Pentastar engines, a hybrid powertrain, and even a punchy V-8 option, while the Bronco counters with three different EcoBoost gasoline engines. Whether saving fuel or tearing up trails, both vehicles have something that’ll work for you.

The Wrangler’s 4xe hybrid offers a remarkable 49 MPGe with an all-electric range of 21 miles. Ford’s Bronco counters with around 20 mpg combined from gas-only engines.

Jeep Engine Specifications: Power and Efficiency

Base Wranglers have a 2.0-liter turbo four with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, plenty of power for your daily drives and weekend adventures. Upgrades include a 3.6-liter V-6 with 285 horsepower, a 4xe hybrid with 375 combined horsepower, or a monster 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 with 470 horsepower in the Rubicon 392.

The Bronco counters with a stronger base 2.3-liter turbo with 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. You can also choose the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 with 330 horsepower or the Raptor’s 3.0-liter EcoBoost with 418 horsepower. Your perfect match depends on whether you prioritize rock-crawling torque, desert running power, or fuel savings.

Jeep Road Performance: Handling and Agility

Because these vehicles spend most of their time on pavement, Ford added comfortable seats, better cargo space, and handling that feels less tractor-like to the Bronco, aiming to improve your daily drive.

The Jeep Wrangler accelerates quickly and has solid reliability ratings. Both vehicles improved road noise for the 2025 model year, but they’re still boxy trucks on chunky tires. Steering is precise but predictable — some prefer the Wrangler’s traditional feel, while others prefer the Bronco’s refinement.

Jeep Off-Road Prowess: Technologies and Features for the Trails

The Trail Rated Jeep Wrangler is backed by a 4:1 Rock-Trac full-time or part-time 4WD system. If you need to go through water, it handles depths of up to 31.5 inches and has 10.8 inches of ground clearance.

Bronco counters with an advanced 4WD system, five G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes, plus front and rear locking differentials. It beats the Wrangler in water fording (36.4 inches) and ground clearance (11.6 inches). Your choice might come down to which features match your favorite trails.

Jeep Suspension Systems: Smooth Rides on Any Terrain

These trucks take different paths to the same goal. Jeep sticks with tradition with solid axles on the front and rear of the Wrangler, giving you outstanding performance over rough terrain and proven durability.

Ford takes a more modern approach with the Bronco, using an independent front suspension with a solid rear differential for better daily drives. Both offer upgraded shocks in higher trims, such as the Rubicon and the Raptor.

Schedule a Test-Drive of a 2025 Jeep Wrangler Today at Chris Nikel CJDRF

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco both excel off-road. The Wrangler offers classic styling, hybrid efficiency, and proven history, edging out the Bronco’s modern design and gas-only powertrains. Drop by Chris Nikel CJDRF for a Jeep Wrangler test-drive, and experience this legendary vehicle for yourself.