Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black - The Ultimate Off-Road Adventure Machine
If you're on the lookout for an SUV that's all about thrills rugged style and performance look no further than the Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black edition. With its commanding appearance and robust off-road capabilities the Bronco Wildtrak stands tall among the top contenders for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you're conquering sand dunes or navigating rocky mountain trails this beast has got your back. In this article we'll take a deep dive into everything that makes the Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black special as well as discuss some potential drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
What Makes the Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black Stand Out?
The Bronco is an icon in the SUV world and when Ford revived it they made sure it lived up to its name. The Wildtrak Black version is tailored for off-roading enthusiasts who want a little more edge. So what's the big deal with this special trim? Let's get into it.
Performance
Power and Engine Specs
Under the hood the Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black houses a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine churning out an impressive 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission this engine is designed to give you the best mix of power efficiency and control. This SUV's turbocharged V6 makes it not just fast on the trails but also smooth on the highways. It's the kind of powertrain that gives you that exhilarating push when you hit the gas — a critical component for any adventure-ready SUV.
Off-Road Performance
The Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black is built to handle all kinds of terrains. With the Sasquatch Package coming as standard on this trim you get 35-inch tires 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels Bilstein shocks and front and rear locking differentials. All of these work together to make sure the Bronco can tackle mud sand rocks and snow with ease.
What really makes the Wildtrak Black edition shine is the G.O.A.T. Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain). This terrain management system lets you switch between seven different driving modes like Baja Sand Slippery Mud/Ruts Rock Crawl Normal and Eco to ensure the best traction control and performance no matter where you're driving.
A Little Drawback: On-Road Comfort
While the off-road performance of the Wildtrak Black is second to none some users might find the on-road ride a bit stiff. The heavy-duty suspension and large tires are perfect for off-roading but this does result in a slightly less refined ride on smoother pavement. It's a small compromise for those who plan on taking this beast on serious adventures but if you're mainly looking for a city cruiser there might be better options.
Exterior Design - The Black-Out Style
Aggressive Look and Feel
The Bronco Wildtrak Black isn't just any Bronco; it boasts a blacked-out exterior that makes it look stealthy and aggressive. With its signature black grille black-painted wheels and Wildtrak graphics it demands attention on and off the road. The raised hood and wide fender flares give it a muscular stance making sure everyone knows this is a machine built for adventure.
Removable Doors and Roof
One of the coolest features of the Ford Bronco lineup is the ability to remove the doors and roof to give you an open-air experience. The Wildtrak Black is no different letting you transform the vehicle into a fully open off-roader. Whether you're cruising down the beach or climbing a mountain this feature gives you the sense of freedom that makes driving a Bronco an adventure in itself.
Interior and Comfort
Modern Rugged Design
Step inside and the Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black offers a mix of ruggedness and modern comfort. The interior features marine-grade vinyl upholstery designed to withstand the elements while still offering comfort and style. The rubberized floor mats with drain plugs make cleaning up after a muddy adventure a breeze. And let’s not forget the heated seats which are perfect for those chilly early-morning drives.
Advanced Technology
Despite its rugged build the Wildtrak Black is packed with tech. The SYNC 4 infotainment system with a large 12-inch touchscreen is standard making it easy to access navigation music and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The off-road navigation system helps you stay on course even when you’re far off the beaten path.
However Alex Collantes a Ford enthusiast and off-road adventurer mentioned “While the tech is impressive some users may find the infotainment system a bit overwhelming at first especially if you're coming from a simpler setup. It’s a small learning curve but once you get the hang of it it's a breeze.”
Cargo and Storage
For those bringing gear along the Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black doesn’t disappoint. The rear cargo area is spacious enough for camping gear surfboards or any equipment you need. However the removable top and doors take up a bit of space when stowed away so it’s something to consider if you're planning a long trip with a lot of luggage.
Driving Experience - How Does It Feel Behind the Wheel?
A Bronco That Can Take You Anywhere
The driving experience in the Wildtrak Black is exhilarating. The steering is responsive and the brakes are solid giving you confidence as you tackle rough terrains. Thanks to the Sasquatch Package's suspension and tire upgrades you can handle dips bumps and obstacles with ease. Even novice off-roaders will feel like pros when driving this vehicle.
Smoothness and Handling
One thing to note is that while the Wildtrak Black is a beast off-road it may not be as smooth on the highway compared to other SUVs in its class. The aggressive tire tread can cause a bit of road noise and the suspension that's designed for off-road performance may feel a tad bouncy on paved roads. Again it’s a minor trade-off but one worth mentioning.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Key Safety Features
Ford made sure that the Bronco Wildtrak Black is not just fun but also safe. Here are some of the key safety features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Makes highway driving easier by automatically adjusting your speed based on traffic.
- Forward-Collision Warning and Automated Emergency Braking: Alerts you to potential collisions and applies the brakes if necessary.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Keeps you aware of vehicles in your blind spots.
- Lane-Keeping Assist: Gently corrects your steering to help keep you in your lane.
Reliability and Warranty
When it comes to reliability Ford has built a solid reputation. The Bronco Wildtrak Black comes with a standard three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Ford's extensive dealership network makes it easy to get service if any issues arise during ownership.
Pricing and Trim Options
The Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black sits near the top of the Bronco lineup making it one of the more premium trims available. Here’s a breakdown:
- Base Model Price: The starting price is around $51,000. However, depending on additional options and packages the price can rise quickly.
- Standard Packages: The Sasquatch Package is included as standard on the Wildtrak Black trim.
- Additional Options: Buyers can add features like leather seats enhanced sound systems and additional safety tech.
Although the price might be a concern for some considering all the standard off-roading features and upgrades it offers great value for those looking for a ready-to-go adventure machine.
Pros and Cons - A Quick Recap
Pros
- Powerful Engine: The 2.7-liter V6 is a powerhouse.
- Impressive Off-Road Capabilities: With the Sasquatch Package it's ready for any terrain.
- Removable Roof and Doors: Open-air driving experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Rugged Yet Comfortable Interior: Built to withstand the elements but still stylish.
- Advanced Tech and Safety Features: SYNC 4 and a suite of driver assistance tools make life easier.
Cons
- Stiffer On-Road Ride: Off-road suspension makes it slightly less comfortable on pavement.
- Learning Curve for Infotainment System: SYNC 4 is powerful but takes time to learn.
- Cargo Space Limitations: Removable doors and roof take up some room when stowed away.
- Price Tag: Premium features come at a cost making it more expensive than some competitors.
Final Verdict - Is the Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black for You?
The Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black is a machine designed for those who live life on the edge — ready to take on mountains trails beaches and more. Its off-road prowess combined with modern tech and a stylish blacked-out appearance make it one of the most compelling choices in the off-road SUV segment. It's not without its quirks but for those who prioritize adventure over comfort this Bronco is an incredible choice.
As Alex Collantes puts it “The Wildtrak Black is for the bold spirited drivers. It’s not for everyone but if you're looking for something that’s more than just a car something that gives you freedom and takes you to places you never thought you could go then this is it. This is the one.”
References:
- Ford Official Website – Ford.com
- MotorTrend – "Ford Bronco Wildtrak Review"
- Car and Driver – "2024 Ford Bronco: What We Know So Far"
- AutoBlog – "Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black – First Drive Review"
I hope you enjoyed this deep dive into the Ford Bronco Wildtrak Black. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or just starting your adventure journey the Wildtrak Black stands ready to meet your needs and take you places you never thought you'd go!