2025 Ford Bronco

Overview
The 2025 Ford Bronco continues its legacy as a rugged, body-on-frame SUV built for adventure, tracing its roots back to the 1960s and revived in 2021 to compete directly with the Jeep Wrangler. For 2025, Ford introduces subtle updates including new appearance packages like the retro-themed Free Wheeling and the performance-focused Stroppe Edition. The Bronco remains a midsize SUV available in two- and four-door configurations, seating up to five passengers. It offers removable doors and roof panels for open-air driving, reinforcing its off-road ethos. Key competitors include the Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Defender, Rivian R1S, and Toyota Land Cruiser.

The Bronco lineup spans from the Base and Big Bend to Outer Banks, Badlands, Heritage Edition, and the high-performance Raptor. Powertrain options include a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 275 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque (300 hp with premium fuel), and a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 315 hp and 410 lb-ft. The Raptor ups the ante with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 rated at 418 hp and 440 lb-ft. Transmission choices include a 7-speed manual (with crawler gear) and a 10-speed automatic. All models feature standard four-wheel drive. Towing capacity ranges from 3,500 to 4,500 pounds depending on configuration.

Pricing starts at $38,995 for the Base model and climbs to $79,995 for the Raptor. Standard features include a 12-inch digital driver display, footwell ambient lighting, and Ford's G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) drive modes. Optional upgrades include a 12-speaker B&O sound system, HOSS 3.0 suspension, and the FITS modular tether system. Safety tech includes forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a front trail camera. Special editions like the Free Wheeling and Stroppe bring unique styling and off-road enhancements.

Engine Performance
The Bronco's engine lineup offers solid acceleration and trail-ready torque. The 2.3-liter turbo-four hits 0-60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, while the 2.7-liter V6 trims that to 7.0 seconds. The Raptor's 3.0-liter V6 rockets to 60 mph in just under 6 seconds. Passing power is confident across all trims, especially with the V6 options. The 10-speed automatic shifts smoothly, though some downshifts can be abrupt. The 7-speed manual adds enthusiast appeal, especially with its crawler gear for low-speed precision. From a smoothness standpoint, all engines are more gruff than typical passenger vehicles, but that's the norm in this segment and not out of place in a vehicle this rugged.

Fuel Economy
EPA estimates for the 2.3-liter engine are 20 mpg city / 21 mpg highway / 20 mpg combined. The 2.7-liter V6 drops slightly to 18 mpg combined. All models use regular unleaded fuel, with a 20.8-gallon tank yielding a highway range of roughly 400 miles. Real-world fuel economy tends to be lower, especially with off-road tires and accessories, averaging around 17-18 mpg combined in mixed driving with perhaps 22 MPG in relaxed highway cruising.

AWD & Off-Road Systems
Every Bronco comes standard with four-wheel drive and Ford's G.O.A.T. drive modes, which include Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl. The Badlands and Raptor trims add Trail Control (off-road cruise control), front and rear locking differentials, and disconnecting sway bars. The Sasquatch package includes 35-inch tires, high-clearance fender flares, and a twin-clutch rear differential. The new Stroppe Edition is a two-door-only, limited-run tribute to legendary off-road racer and builder Bill Stroppe, whose Baja-conquering Broncos in the 1960s and '70s helped cement Ford's desert racing legacy. This edition replaces the Wildtrak trim and adds a host of upgrades: a retro-inspired paint scheme with color-matched fenders borrowed from the Everglades, the Lux Package with premium tech and comfort features, and the HOSS 3.0 suspension with FOX internal bypass dampers tuned for high-speed off-road control. It also includes push-button sway-bar disconnect for enhanced articulation and swaps in quieter Goodyear Territory Rugged Terrain tires for better on-road refinement.

Ride Quality
Despite its off-road focus, the Bronco rides surprisingly well. The suspension is firm but not punishing, absorbing bumps with composure. The Badlands and Raptor trims feel stiffer due to their trail-tuned setups, while Outer Banks and Big Bend offer a more compliant ride. The HOSS 3.0 suspension improves damping and control, especially on uneven terrain. There's a noticeable difference in ride comfort and control between the shorter 2-door and 4-door models, with the 4-door feeling more composed and comfortable on road.

Handling
Steering is light but accurate, with decent feedback for an SUV of this size. Body roll is present in corners, especially on taller trims with off-road tires, but it's well-managed. Braking performance is adequate, though stopping distances are longer than average-149 feet from 60 mph on dry pavement, and 168 feet in the wet. Pedal feel is firm but not overly sensitive.

Interior Noise
Wind and tire noise are noticeable at highway speeds due to the Bronco's boxy shape and removable roof panels. Compared to rivals like the Land Rover Defender and Rivian R1S, the Bronco is louder inside, though Ford has added more sound insulation for 2025. Sasquatch-equipped models now feature quieter Goodyear Territory tires.

Interior Design
The Bronco's interior blends rugged utility with modern tech. Materials range from durable plastics to soft-touch surfaces, with rubberized controls and washable flooring on trail-focused trims. The dashboard features a horizontal layout with physical buttons for key functions. Storage is ample, with MOLLE straps and modular accessories available. The rotary shift knob and wireless charging pad add convenience.

Tech & Safety
Technology includes Ford's SYNC infotainment system with an 8- or 12-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional navigation. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a front trail camera. The Bronco also offers over-the-air updates and trail mapping software on higher trims.

Seating & Comfort
The 4-door Bronco seats five across two rows. Two-door models seat four. Front seats are spacious and supportive, with available heating and power adjustments. Rear seats offer decent legroom and headroom, though taller passengers may feel cramped on two-door models. Entry and exit are easy thanks to wide door openings and high seating positions.

Cargo & Storage
Cargo space behind the second row measures 35.6 cubic feet in four-door models, expanding to 77.6 cubic feet with seats folded. Two-door models offer less space. Interior storage includes a center console, glovebox, door pockets, and under-floor compartments. USB-A and USB-C ports are standard, with available 110V AC outlets on higher trims.

Bottom Line
The 2025 Ford Bronco remains one of the most capable off-road SUVs in its class, offering unmatched customization, solid powertrain options, and genuine trail performance. It outshines rivals in off-road gear and modularity but lags in fuel economy and cabin quietness. For buyers seeking the best balance of features and value, the Outer Banks trim hits the sweet spot with comfort, tech, and trail capability without the Raptor's price tag.