For drivers who prefer the road less traveled, a vehicle that can handle the most rugged terrain is essential. While many models claim to be the toughest, off-road enthusiasts typically narrow their search to the two most popular models: the Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler. Both options have a rich history, blazing a trail for other off-road vehicles to follow in their footsteps. However, it’s hard to imitate the originals, which is why these two SUVs have remained so popular.
If you’re considering one of these models, you need an excellent dealership to view your options. Drivers searching for a Ford dealer near Rocklin don’t need to look any further than Future Ford of Sacramento. We can get you behind the wheel of your perfect off-road SUV today. So, when it comes to the 2025 Bronco and the 2025 Wrangler, which model has the capabilities you’re looking for? Let’s find out.
Off-Roading Capabilities
If you’re planning to hit the trails east of Rocklin, the most critical factor when comparing these two models is their off-roading capabilities. After all, that is the common reason they are sought out. Both vehicles are carefully crafted to tackle rugged terrain easily, but how do they compare to each other?
When it comes to the Bronco, this model isn’t all talk. Ford wanted its off-road vehicle to have a report card to prove its claims. That’s why the Bronco was put through extreme “Built Wild” durability testing before becoming available to the public. These assessments include off-road tests through California’s Mojave Desert. These trails are incredibly challenging, so much so that they are also used in the King of Hammer’s off-road competition.
The Bronco features a fully boxed frame, including seven cross members, all made of steel for extra support while you’re tackling rugged terrain. The independent front and five-link rear suspension have been torture tested, so you can feel confident knowing they can withstand the most extreme conditions. To protect your Bronco, you’ll appreciate the included off-road obstacle protection and underbody armor, along with class-leading safety features, ensuring you’re protected just as thoroughly as your SUV. That’s not all, however. The vehicle also features a solid, ground-gripping 4×4 powertrain and a terrain management system, allowing you to easily navigate even the most demanding trails.
The Wrangler also undergoes its own testing, which allows it to proudly wear the Jeep Trail Rated Badge. To earn this badge, vehicles must pass testing for features such as ground clearance, water fording, articulation, traction, and maneuverability, ensuring they can successfully handle challenging terrain.
Both the Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler have their own strengths and deliver impressive capabilities. Each brand ensures its vehicle meets specific requirements by conducting a stringent testing and evaluation process before offering its products to the public. Available off-road experiences for buyers—Jeep’s Adventure Academy and Ford’s Bronco Off-Roadeo—offer shoppers the peace of mind knowing their vehicle, no matter which model they choose, can handle anything they may throw at it.
Extra Features for Improved Off-Roading
When discussing rugged vehicles, both the Bronco and the Wrangler offer a range of performance features. However, when stacked against each other, one model does seem to have an advantage over the other.
The Ford Bronco offers an incredibly powerful standard engine, a 2.0L EcoBoost, which boasts 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. When compared to the Wrangler’s standard engine, a 3.6L Pentastar V6 that only offers 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, it’s easy to see that the Bronco outshines its competition. Bronco’s powertrain also includes an optional seven-speed manual transmission. The seventh gear is an ultra-low gear that helps the Bronco crawl over rocks, steep inclines, and rugged terrain with improved control and traction.
In categories such as ground clearance and water fording, the Bronco also outperforms the Wrangler and comes out on top. The 2025 Bronco offers up to 13.1 inches of ground clearance on its Raptor variant, while the 2025 Wrangler Rubicon trim, even with its optional Xtreme 35-inch Tire Package, can only reach up to 12.9 inches. When crossing a body of water like a stream or puddle, the Wrangler offers 34 inches of water fording ability. However, the Bronco edges it out with an impressive 37 inches.
The inclusion of the Bronco’s GOAT (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes on all available trims further solidifies Ford’s claim that its vehicle can handle even the most difficult roads. This feature offers up to seven different settings, including Normal, Eco, Mud/Ruts, Slippery, Sand, Rock Crawl, and Baja. With so many options, you can easily customize your driving experience to adapt to any type of terrain you are traveling over. The Wrangler only has a single Off-Road+ mode and cannot adapt to different driving challenges in the same way.
Enhanced Suspension for Even Better Performance
The Ford Bronco offers four versions of its unique High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension System (HOSS) as optional add-ons for drivers planning to tackle the most challenging terrain. With available FOX Live Valve semi-active dampers, you will enjoy a smoother off-roading experience that lets you maintain control even at higher speeds. When combined with the Bronco’s more modern suspension architecture, you also won’t sacrifice on-road comfort and handling.
In comparison, the Jeep Wrangler offers a much more basic suspension design. While its solid axles are certainly durable, they do not provide the same level of handling that you will find in the Bronco. Plus, even the top trims of the Wrangler lack the sophisticated shocks available for the Bronco, leading to a softer and less controlled ride.
Although both the 2025 Ford Bronco and the 2025 Jeep Wrangler are among the best in class for off-roading performance, it’s not difficult to see which of these models comes out on top. The Wrangler is no slacker, but it simply can’t compete with the Bronco’s capabilities in essential categories like water fording, ground clearance, and suspension design. For Rocklin drivers who truly want to leave no stone unturned in their adventures, it’s clear the Bronco is the only choice.
Two Off-Road Legends: How Does Each Stack Up?
Regarding off-roading vehicles, it’s undeniable that the Bronco and the Wrangler are legends. Both have extensive histories spanning decades. While the Wrangler has remained largely unchanged throughout its lifetime, the Bronco has been discontinued and redesigned to be exceptional in 2025. Though both models have plenty to offer when compared side by side, it’s easy to see that the Bronco pushes its competitor to the sidelines.
The Bronco edges out the Wrangler in categories like ground clearance, engine power, and handling. This incredible vehicle has impressive capabilities that will allow you to easily take on your next adventure, whether you’re staying close to Rocklin or planning an extended trip. The Bronco is not only built for tough terrain but also includes excellent safety features and advanced technology to make your drive better protected. While all its standard features are fantastic, shoppers can also choose from optional additions to ensure their Bronco has everything they are looking for and more.
It’s no secret the Wrangler is one of the most popular models available for off-roading, but the 2025 Bronco is here to shake things up in this category. Since its re-release in 2021, this incredible model has made up for lost time by offering its drivers the most capable SUV on the market. If you’re torn between a 2025 Ford Bronco and a 2025 Jeep Wrangler, let this guide help you make your final choice. While you’re sure to enjoy either model, the Bronco simply has the most to offer.
