Which is right for you, the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport or Jeep Wrangler? Both models are specially designed for adventure, albeit in slightly different ways. Let’s take a closer look at Ford’s sporty new compact crossover versus Jeep’s famous midsize SUV.
Friendliest Price: 2022 Ford Bronco Sport
The 2022 Ford Bronco Sport gives you both a lower price and a longer list of standard features. Ford’s sporty small crossover starts at $28,165. And it comes with features that modern drivers are accustomed to, including power windows and door locks, air conditioning and smartphone-friendly infotainment.
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler’s MSRP starts at $29,995. However, the base model is much more Spartan than most of us are used to. Inside, you’ll find crank windows and manual door locks. And if you want auto-control air conditioning, you need to upgrade to at least the Willys Sport trim model, which starts at $32,350.
Off-Road Prowess: 2022 Jeep Wrangler
As a midsize SUV with a truck-like chassis, the Wrangler is very sturdy indeed. Before Ford reintroduced its Bronco SUV, the Wrangler reigned as king of the off-road. And the Wrangler remains as capable as ever, with standard four-wheel drive and a long list of rugged options, from low-range gearing to electronic locking front and rear differentials.
The Bronco Sport is a small crossover with a car-like, unibody chassis. It’s agile in a tight space — whether that’s a narrow trail or a downtown parking garage — though it’s not as sturdy as the body-on-frame Wrangler.
But the Bronco Sport is pretty rugged compared to other small crossovers, with standard four-wheel drive to help you maintain precision on soft or slick surfaces. You can even upgrade off-road performance with the Badlands trim model, which includes all-terrain tires, upgraded four-wheel drive, and off-road-specific suspension.
If you’re looking for a Ford that can compete with the Wrangler’s off-road capabilities, though, you may be better suited to the regular Bronco, a midsize SUV meant for off-road adventure.
Everyday Driving: 2022 Ford Bronco Sport
While the Bronco Sport’s unibody chassis may keep it from being as rugged as the Wrangler, this same feature will serve you well in everyday driving. On the road, the Bronco Sport feels smooth and controlled, soaking up bumps in the road for a comfortable trip.
The Wrangler’s extra-sporty suspension can chip away at your on-road comfort levels. This SUV feels pretty stiff in everyday traffic, though its powertrain options supply plenty of power for highway merging or passing maneuvers.
Modern Comfort: 2022 Ford Bronco Sport
Like we already mentioned, every Bronco Sport comes standard with the creature comforts modern drivers have come to expect. And its smoother ride contributes to a comfortable everyday drive. Climb the Bronco Sport trim levels for greater interior luxury; available features include heated seats, leather-trimmed upholstery, and dual-zone climate control.
To achieve the same kind of comfort you find in the base Bronco Sport, you’ll need to upgrade your Jeep Wrangler to a more expensive model. The Wrangler’s ride never feels as comfortable, but this Jeep does offer many of the same options, including heated, leather-clad seats.
Choose Your Rugged SUV
It’s true that the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport can’t scale as steep a mountain or ford as deep a river as the 2022 Jeep Wrangler. But, with its trail-ready capabilities and crossover body style, it appeals to drivers who want to combine everyday comfort with a little weekend adventure. Not to mention you get everything the Bronco Sport has to offer at a very friendly price!