The 2023 Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler are two very capable off-road-ready midsize SUVs! The one that belongs in your life will hit all your sweet spots. Our buying guide is here to help you figure out exactly which SUV that is.
Key Takeaways
- Compared to the Bronco, the 2023 Wrangler’s engine options can deliver more power or earn greater fuel economy.
- Both of these SUVs were designed to hit the trail, and it shows!
- The Bronco is our first choice for interior comfort. Every trim model is home to coveted creature comforts, including standard air conditioning.
- The Bronco also comes standard with more tech features than the Wrangler, including power accessories and the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Top-Notch Power: 2023 Jeep Wrangler
Depending on which Wrangler engine you select, the Wrangler can give you more overall power. Choose its available V8 for maximum power. Or you can choose the 4xe hybrid powertrain for both impressive output and incredible fuel economy (up to 49 MPGe)!
Choose from these 2023 Wrangler engine options:
- 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)
The 2023 Ford Bronco may not offer as much horsepower as the Wrangler’s V8, but it does provide two very sporty powertrains. And its available upgrade, the turbocharged V6, is widely available across the Bronco’s trim levels. For maximum power, check out the Bronco Raptor, the line’s most off-road-ready model.
Choose from these 2023 Bronco engine options:
- 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
Off-Roading: It’s a Tie!
Both the 2023 Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler were specifically designed to hit the trail. Properly equipped, these midsize SUVs can even forge their own trails!
The Bronco comes standard with Trail Turn Assist, a driver aid that can help you turn around on a narrow trail. And its terrain-friendly G.O.A.T. driving modes can help you really get off the grid. With the Sasquatch package, your Bronco transforms into an off-road-ready beast, with 35-inch mud-terrain tires, beadlock-capable wheels, and a shorter final drive ratio with electronically locking front and rear axles, among other upgrades.
Like the Bronco, every Wrangler comes standard with trail-ready four-wheel drive. And it’s also available with a similar range of rugged upgrades, including four-wheel drive with low-range gearing, electronic locking front and rear differentials, and rock rails.
Fun-Loving Comfort: 2023 Ford Bronco
Both SUVs come standard with a convertible top and removable doors, so you can experience the wind in your hair on a whole new level. However, the Bronco is our first choice for comfort. Not only does this Ford SUV give you more front-seat leg and hip room than the Wrangler, but it also comes standard with coveted features like air conditioning, carpeted flooring, and cloth upholstery. Move up the Bronco’s eight trim levels for more luxury features, such as leather seating and heated seats. Some trim models are designed for a quick clean after a fun day on the trail, with marine-grade vinyl upholstery and a floor drain.
The Jeep Wrangler’s base model is very basic. You need to upgrade to the Sport S or the Unlimited four-door body style to enjoy air conditioning, for example. However, moving up the Wrangler’s many trim models will result in a more comfortable ride. Available upgrades include everything from leather seating to heated front seats!
Technology: 2023 Ford Bronco
The Bronco comes standard with features many modern drivers expect to find, such as power door locks and windows and push-button start. The standard lineup also includes the new SYNC 4 infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen and the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available upgrades include a 10-speaker B&O sound system, wireless smartphone charging pad, and built-in navigation.
The Wrangler’s entry-level tech lineup is pretty sparse, with crank windows and manual door locks. However, you can obtain power accessories by moving up the trim levels. The standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch touchscreen and the wired versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Tech upgrades include integrated navigation and a bigger, 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Your Off-Road-Ready SUV
The 2023 Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler both deliver serious off-road potential! However, only the Bronco delivers retro style, coveted tech features, and a cabin that’s both convertible and completely comfortable.