Deciding between the 2023 Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler needn't be too complicated. You probably already know these midsize SUVs for their incredible off-road capabilities and convertible roofs. Our comparison guide is here to help you get to know each model a little better. By the end, you’ll be able to make the right choice for your daily drive!
Key Takeaways
- Both the Bronco and the Wrangler were built to travel deep into the wild, with a wide range of trail-friendly upgrades available.
- The Bronco comes standard with more power, though the Wrangler ultimately offers more with its optional V8.
- Choose the Bronco for more standard features, including standard air conditioning.
- Ford’s midsize SUV also offers more in luxury upgrades and a cushier cabin overall.
Off-Road Performance: It’s a Tie!
These midsize SUVs would love nothing more than to take you and your loved ones deep into the wilderness. And both models offer everything you need to get there, including standard four-wheel drive and available upgrades like locking differentials, all-terrain tires, and Fox shocks.
Standard Power: 2023 Ford Bronco
The 2023 Ford Bronco comes with more standard power than the competition. And its base turbocharged engine delivers 300 horsepower. And it’s also available with your choice of a seven-speed manual transmission or 10-speed automatic transmission. If you decide you want more power, you can add the turbocharged V6 to any trim model. And the Raptor-only 3.0-liter V6 delivers the swiftest ride of them all, with 418 horses!
Choose from these 2023 Bronco engines:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 325 lb-ft of torque) with seven-speed manual transmission or optional 10-speed automatic transmission
- Optional turbo 2.7L V6 (330 hp, 415 lb-ft) with 10-speed automatic
- Raptor turbo 3.0L V6 (418 hp, 440 lb-ft) with 10-speed automatic
- Four-wheel drive
Although the Bronco comes standard with more power, the Jeep Wrangler can offer an even stronger drive, compliments of its V8 engine. Available with the Rubicon 392 trim model, this V8 can help you take off-roading performance to the limits with 470 horses. The Wrangler also treats you to the highest EPA ratings, as long as you select the 4xe hybrid powertrain, which earns up to 49 MPGe.
Choose from these 2023 Wrangler engines:
- 3.6L V6 (285 hp, 260 lb-ft) with six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (270 hp, 295 lb-ft) with eight-speed automatic
- Turbo 3.0L diesel V6 (260 hp, 442 lb-ft) (Rubicon Far Out only)
- 6.4L 392 V8 (470 hp, 470 lb-ft) with automatic (Rubicon Unlimited only)
- Plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain (375 hp, 470 lb-ft)
Standard Lineup: 2023 Ford Bronco
Compared to the Wrangler’s standard lineup, which is pretty sparse, the Bronco provides much more of what modern drivers want. For example, every Bronco trim model features power windows, door locks, and air conditioning! The Bronco’s standard lineup also includes LED headlights, a seven-speaker sound system, and Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system (with an 8-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).
In the base Jeep Wrangler, you’ll find crank windows and manual door locks. If you want air conditioning, you need to upgrade either to the Sport S or the Unlimited body style, because the base Sport trim does not include this must-have comfort feature. On the other hand, the base Wrangler does come with a smartphone-savvy infotainment system, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen and the wired versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Luxury Upgrades: 2023 Ford Bronco
In addition to providing the best standard lineup, the Bronco also feels more luxurious overall. There are seven trim models, including the swanky Outer Banks and the Wildtrak, which builds on the Outer Banks’s comfort upgrades with extra off-road gear. With the Mid package, you can add dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and remote start to most Bronco trim models. The Lux package (available with the High package) adds a 10-speaker B&O audio system and a heated steering wheel.
When it comes to stylish upgrades, the Jeep Wrangler is a close second place. Although most trim models are focused more on performance than interior style, there are a few options for anyone who wants a cushier drive. The special-edition Jeep Beach package adds premium leather upholstery and exterior styling, for example.
Your New SUV
Although the 2023 Jeep Wrangler is an off-road all-star, the 2023 Ford Bronco can take it on, no problem. And the Bronco has more of what you want in a daily driver, including standard creature comforts and the latest smartphone integration features. The 2023 Ford Bronco is our first choice, and we think you’ll agree that it’s the best option for your drive, on-road or off!