The sixth-generation Ford Bronco (and Bronco Raptor) has proven its worth in many comparison tests since the rugged SUV debuted for the 2021 model year, having beaten pretty much all of its rivals on multiple occasions – including the Jeep Wrangler and even the relatively new Toyota Land Cruiser. Regardless, the off-road-focused SUV segment continues to grow in terms of popularity and the sheer number of options offered by automakers these days. Thus, Edmunds recently pitted the Ford Bronco against not only the Wrangler once again, but also, the brand new 2025 Toyota 4Runner.
This particular comparison test was conducted largely off the pavement, which is where these SUVs are designed to thrive – even if many owners won’t ever bother to engage in such activities. Regardless, things kick off with a hill climb, in which the 4Runner required the rear differential to be locked to conquer. The Wrangler made it with both axles locked, but the Bronco conquered the hill with only traction control turned off and while in the Mud/Ruts drive mode.
In the zig-zagging rocks, the Wrangler made it the furthest, followed by the Bronco and 4Runner, but the Toyota lacked a bit in terms of underbody protection, which can be concerning in these types of situations. The 4Runner’s approach and departure angles also proved to be a problem in the more traditional rock crawl portion of the test, which the Ford Bronco and Wrangler both handled with no problem – though the Jeep’s PHEV powertrain was a bit “jumpy.” Finally, a higher speed trail ride revealed that the Bronco “was the most fun,” while the Wrangler was a bit uncomfortable and the 4Runner simply ran out of fumes at the top end.
Ultimately, the Ford Bronco came out victorious yet again in this test, as it simply proved to be a better overall vehicle. “Of the three, the one we’d drive home is the Bronco,” Edmunds concluded. “It’s better to drive on the street than the Wrangler and better at tackling off-road obstacles than the 4Runner.” It’s just another solid comparison test win for The Blue Oval, as Edmunds recently chose the Ford F-150 Lightning over the Chevy Silverado EV, too.
Comments
Broncos are super fun until the fuel pump dies in the desert on you. The reliability is right on par with Jeep. I miss my Bronco but don’t like tow truck rides home and the downtime for warranty work was hideous. Bought a 5th gen 4runner, it’s lame, but solid.
What happens if an ABS wire is broken on the Bronco while off road and needing to engage in 4 wheel drive?