Choosing between the Bronco Badlands and Wildtrak can be tough, especially when you're trying to figure out which one fits your budget and adventure style. Both models offer serious off-road capability, but they cater to slightly different needs. Let's dive into a detailed comparison, focusing on price, features, and performance, to help you make the right decision.

Overview of Bronco Badlands

The Bronco Badlands is designed for the ultimate off-road enthusiast. It comes standard with several features that enhance its performance on rugged terrain. The Badlands trim includes an advanced 4x4 system with a two-speed electromechanical transfer case, heavy-duty suspension with position-sensitive Bilstein shock absorbers, and front and rear locking differentials. These features make it incredibly capable in challenging environments.

Key Features of the Badlands

• Advanced 4x4 System: The Badlands' 4x4 system ensures optimal traction and control in various off-road conditions.
• Bilstein Shock Absorbers: These high-performance shocks provide superior damping and control, improving ride quality and stability on rough terrain.
• Front and Rear Locking Differentials: These differentials can be locked to ensure that both wheels on an axle turn at the same speed, providing maximum traction in extreme situations.
• Rock Crawl Mode: This mode optimizes the vehicle's settings for low-speed rock crawling, providing precise control and torque.
• Removable Sway Bar: The disconnecting front sway bar allows for increased suspension articulation, improving the Bronco's ability to navigate uneven terrain.

The Badlands is perfect for those who prioritize off-road capability above all else. If you're planning on tackling challenging trails and need a vehicle that can handle anything you throw at it, the Badlands is an excellent choice.

Overview of Bronco Wildtrak

The Bronco Wildtrak is built for high-speed off-roading and desert running. It combines impressive off-road features with a more powerful engine and a focus on performance. The Wildtrak comes standard with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which delivers plenty of horsepower and torque for tackling dunes and open trails.

Key Features of the Wildtrak

• 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 Engine: This engine provides plenty of power for high-speed off-roading and towing.
• 10-Speed Automatic Transmission: The 10-speed transmission offers smooth and precise gear changes, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency.
• Advanced 4x4 System: Similar to the Badlands, the Wildtrak features an advanced 4x4 system for optimal traction.
• Position-Sensitive Bilstein Shock Absorbers: These shocks provide improved damping and control, enhancing ride quality and stability.
• Terrain Management System with Baja Mode: This system optimizes the vehicle's settings for high-speed desert running, providing enhanced control and performance.

The Wildtrak is ideal for those who want a powerful and capable off-road vehicle that can handle high-speed adventures. If you enjoy driving fast on open trails and want a Bronco that can keep up, the Wildtrak is a great option.

Price Comparison: Badlands vs. Wildtrak

When comparing the Bronco Badlands and Wildtrak, price is a significant factor for most buyers. The Badlands typically starts at a slightly lower price point than the Wildtrak. However, the final price can vary depending on the options and packages you choose.

Starting MSRP

• Bronco Badlands: The Badlands trim typically starts around $45,000, but this can fluctuate based on the model year and any additional features or packages.
• Bronco Wildtrak: The Wildtrak generally starts around $50,000. The higher price reflects its more powerful engine and additional standard features tailored for high-speed off-roading.

Factors Affecting Price

• Optional Packages: Both models offer a variety of optional packages that can significantly impact the price. These packages may include upgraded technology, convenience features, and additional off-road equipment.
• Engine Options: While the Wildtrak comes standard with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, the Badlands offers a choice between the 2.3-liter EcoBoost and the 2.7-liter EcoBoost, affecting the final price.
• Dealer Markups: Depending on demand and availability, dealer markups can also affect the price of both models.

Keep in mind that these are just starting prices, and the final cost can increase significantly with options and packages. It's always a good idea to get a detailed quote from your local dealer to get an accurate price for the specific configuration you want.

Feature Comparison: What Do You Get for the Money?

Both the Bronco Badlands and Wildtrak come with a range of features designed to enhance their off-road capabilities, but there are some key differences that may sway your decision. Let's break down the feature comparison to see what you get for your money.

Off-Road Features

• Badlands: Standard features include an advanced 4x4 system with a two-speed electromechanical transfer case, heavy-duty suspension with position-sensitive Bilstein shock absorbers, front and rear locking differentials, rock crawl mode, and a disconnecting front sway bar.
• Wildtrak: Comes standard with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, advanced 4x4 system, position-sensitive Bilstein shock absorbers, and a terrain management system with Baja mode.

Interior and Technology

• Badlands: Features a durable and functional interior with marine-grade vinyl seats, rubberized flooring, and an easy-to-clean design. It also includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Ford's SYNC 4, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
• Wildtrak: Offers a more premium interior with available leather upholstery, a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. It also includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

Exterior Features

• Badlands: Features a rugged and utilitarian exterior design with steel bumpers, rock rails, and aggressive tires. It also includes a modular hardtop or soft top, depending on the configuration.
• Wildtrak: Has a more sporty and aggressive exterior design with unique graphics, a black grille, and a standard modular hardtop. It also includes features like LED headlights and taillights.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities. If you value maximum off-road capability and durability, the Badlands is an excellent option. If you prefer a more powerful engine, advanced technology, and a more refined interior, the Wildtrak may be a better fit.

Performance and Capability

When it comes to performance and capability, both the Bronco Badlands and Wildtrak excel in different areas. The Badlands is designed for technical off-roading, while the Wildtrak is built for high-speed desert running.

Engine and Transmission

• Badlands: Offers a choice between the 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 engine (300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque) and the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine (330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque). It comes standard with a 7-speed manual transmission or an available 10-speed automatic transmission.
• Wildtrak: Comes standard with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine (330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque) and a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Off-Road Performance

• Badlands: Excels in technical off-roading thanks to its advanced 4x4 system, locking differentials, and disconnecting front sway bar. It can handle challenging terrain with ease and provides excellent control in low-speed situations.
• Wildtrak: Is designed for high-speed desert running and offers impressive performance on open trails. Its powerful engine and Baja mode allow it to tackle dunes and other challenging terrain with confidence.

Towing Capacity

• Badlands: Has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, depending on the configuration.
• Wildtrak: Also has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.

In summary, the Badlands is better suited for technical off-roading, while the Wildtrak is ideal for high-speed desert running. Consider your primary use case when making your decision.

Pros and Cons of Each Model

To further assist you in making an informed decision, let's outline the pros and cons of each model.

Bronco Badlands

Pros:

• Superior off-road capability for technical terrain
• Standard locking differentials and disconnecting sway bar
• Durable and functional interior
• Lower starting price

Cons:

• Less powerful standard engine
• Fewer premium features
• Not as well-suited for high-speed driving

Bronco Wildtrak

Pros:

• More powerful standard engine
• Advanced technology features
• Sporty and aggressive styling
• Better suited for high-speed off-roading

Cons:

• Higher starting price
• Not as specialized for technical off-roading
• May not be as durable in extreme conditions

Which Bronco is Right for You?

Deciding between the Bronco Badlands and Wildtrak ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here's a quick guide to help you make the right choice:

• Choose the Badlands if: You prioritize maximum off-road capability for technical terrain, want a durable and functional interior, and are on a tighter budget.
• Choose the Wildtrak if: You want a more powerful engine, advanced technology features, sporty styling, and plan to do a lot of high-speed off-roading.

Consider what kind of driving you'll be doing most often and which features are most important to you. Both models are excellent choices, but they cater to different needs and preferences.

By carefully evaluating your priorities and comparing the features and prices of the Bronco Badlands and Wildtrak, you can make an informed decision and choose the best Bronco for your adventures.