Ford Bronco Wildtrak vs Badlands - The Ultimate Showdown
When it comes to off-roading and rugged adventures Ford Bronco has redefined what it means to be a true off-road king. But the million-dollar question for enthusiasts is choosing between two of its most enticing trims — the Ford Bronco Wildtrak vs Badlands. Both have their own unique features and appeal but how do you decide which one's the best fit for you? This in-depth comparison dives into the details so you can make an informed choice.
Overview of Ford Bronco Wildtrak and Badlands
Bronco Wildtrak Overview
The Ford Bronco Wildtrak was designed for high-speed desert running. It comes with a powerful 2.7L V6 EcoBoost engine standard and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Built with hardcore off-road enthusiasts in mind it features Sasquatch Package as standard which includes 35-inch mud-terrain tires front and rear locking differentials and high-clearance suspension.
Bronco Badlands Overview
On the flip side, the Ford Bronco Badlands focuses on versatility. It comes with a choice of two engines: the base 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 or the optional 2.7L V6 EcoBoost for added power. The highlight of the Badlands is its advanced off-road suspension with Bilstein position-sensitive dampers. It also offers the "rock crawl" mode for those who really like to tackle technical trails.
Performance - Powertrains and Transmission
Power and Torque Comparison
- Wildtrak Engine: 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (Standard)
- 310 hp and 400 lb-ft torque
- Badlands Engine Options:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 - 275 hp and 315 lb-ft torque
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (optional) - 310 hp and 400 lb-ft torque
The Wildtrak is built for speed with its high horsepower and torque which makes it feel very powerful especially on desert trails or high-speed off-roading situations. However Badlands offers the flexibility of engine options allowing buyers to choose more fuel efficiency with the 2.3L or to match the Wildtrak's power by opting for the V6.
Transmission Options
Both trims have 10-speed automatic transmissions but the Badlands adds a 7-speed manual transmission for purists who prefer more control. The Wildtrak does not offer the manual option which might be a drawback for some die-hard manual transmission fans.
Off-Road Capabilities and Driving Modes
G.O.A.T Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain)
One of the highlights of the Bronco series is the G.O.A.T modes. Both trims come with different driving modes to tackle varying terrains:
- Wildtrak G.O.A.T Modes: Sand, Slippery, Sport, Eco, and Baja
- Badlands G.O.A.T Modes: Sand, Mud/Ruts, Slippery, Sport, and Rock Crawl
The inclusion of "Rock Crawl" mode makes the Badlands an obvious choice for someone who wants more technical off-road capability. The Wildtrak's Baja mode however excels at faster-paced desert racing and dunes.
Suspension and Handling
Wildtrak Suspension and Handling
The Sasquatch Package comes standard with the Wildtrak which means you get 35-inch tires locking front and rear differentials and Bilstein position-sensitive dampers. This makes the Wildtrak ideal for high-speed sand runs and long off-road journeys. But the trade-off is that the Wildtrak can feel slightly stiffer on paved roads due to its more aggressive off-road suspension.
Badlands Suspension and Handling
The Badlands trim focuses on versatility and technical off-roading. Its hydraulic sway bar disconnect allows for better articulation on rocks and uneven terrains. The Bilstein dampers provide a balance of on-road comfort and off-road prowess. The suspension is more adaptable which means the Badlands is more comfortable for everyday driving while still offering excellent off-road capabilities.
Alex Collantes says “If you want something that's an everyday driver and also hits the trails like a beast then the Badlands is the way to go.”
Interior and Technology
Comfort and Material Quality
Both the Wildtrak and Badlands feature interiors designed for comfort and rugged use. The interiors of both trims are water-resistant with marine-grade vinyl seats available as an option. The Badlands has a slight edge due to its rubberized washout flooring which makes cleaning up after muddy adventures easier.
Wildtrak Interior Highlights
- Standard leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Optional heated front seats
- Carpeted floor mats
Badlands Interior Highlights
- Marine-grade vinyl seats (standard)
- Rubberized flooring for easy cleaning
- Optional leather-trimmed seats
Infotainment System
The SYNC 4 system is standard in both trims featuring a 12-inch touchscreen on the higher packages. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard along with FordPass connectivity. The user experience is largely the same between the two trims though higher packages can upgrade to a Bang & Olufsen sound system for an improved audio experience.
Exterior Design and Appearance
Aesthetic Differences
- Wildtrak: Has a more aggressive look aimed at desert racing fans. Its blacked-out grille and hood graphic make it stand out on the road.
- Badlands: Focuses on a rugged off-road style. The Badlands logo is subtle but adds to its tough appearance while the modular front bumper provides additional customization.
Color Options
Both trims share many color options but the Wildtrak offers exclusive shades like Cyber Orange and Shadow Black for a sportier look.
Tire and Wheel Packages
Wildtrak Standard Tires
The Wildtrak's Sasquatch Package comes with 35-inch mud-terrain tires which add to its off-road capabilities and aggressive stance.
Badlands Tire Choices
The Badlands trim can be equipped with 33-inch all-terrain tires or upgraded to 35-inch mud-terrain tires with the Sasquatch package. This allows for more flexibility based on your specific off-roading needs.
Pros and Cons of Each Trim
Ford Bronco Wildtrak - Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Engine: The standard 2.7L V6 EcoBoost provides ample power.
- Standard Sasquatch Package: Enhanced off-road capabilities with 35-inch tires and front/rear locking differentials.
- High-Speed Performance: Great for desert driving and sand dunes.
Cons:
- No Manual Transmission: Lack of manual option might turn off traditionalists.
- Stiffer Ride on Roads: Suspension tuned for high-speed off-roading can be firm on paved roads.
- Limited Engine Choice: Only available with the 2.7L V6 engine.
Alex Collantes says "The Wildtrak is built for speed and power. It's a beast but not everyone needs all that power day-to-day."
Ford Bronco Badlands - Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Hydraulic Sway Bar Disconnect: Enhances technical off-road capabilities.
- Engine Options: Choose between the efficient 2.3L I-4 or the powerful 2.7L V6.
- Better Daily Driver: Comfortable suspension for both on-road and off-road use.
Cons:
- Less Focused on Speed: While capable off-road the Badlands is not tuned for high-speed desert runs like the Wildtrak.
- Tire Upgrade Needed for Extreme Off-Road: The base tires are 33-inch all-terrain and may need upgrading for serious off-roading.
- Cost of Upgrades: Adding packages like the Sasquatch can quickly increase the price.
Alex Collantes says “The Badlands trim is the more versatile option. It's good on the road great on the trail and still gives you the ability to add what you need.”
Pricing and Value
Wildtrak Pricing
The Wildtrak starts around $50,000 but adding options and packages can push it into the mid $60,000 range. It’s more expensive out of the gate but includes high-end off-road features like the Sasquatch package as standard.
Badlands Pricing
The Badlands is more affordable starting around $45,000. While it lacks some of the high-speed off-road tuning of the Wildtrak it offers great value for those who want a balance of off-road prowess and daily driving comfort. Adding the Sasquatch package and other upgrades can push the price into the $55,000 range.
Which One Offers Better Value?
If you’re someone who wants high-speed off-roading or prefers to have off-road upgrades included in the base price then the Wildtrak might offer better value for your money. However, if you prioritize versatility want to customize your build and desire a more comfortable everyday ride then the Badlands delivers more value for your needs.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
While neither trim is particularly focused on fuel economy it's important to note that the 2.3L engine in the Badlands does offer a slight fuel efficiency advantage over the 2.7L V6. Expect about 20 mpg combined for the 2.3L while the V6 drops to around 17-18 mpg.
Conclusion: Which Trim Should You Choose?
If your goal is to have a high-performance off-road vehicle that feels at home on fast trails dunes and desert landscapes then the Ford Bronco Wildtrak is your go-to choice. It’s powerful rugged and comes ready for extreme adventures straight from the dealership.
On the other hand if you want a more versatile daily driver that still has incredible off-road capabilities then the Badlands will suit you best. Its ability to handle a variety of terrains comfortable ride and customizable options make it a great all-around choice.
Alex Collantes sums it up best “Both trims are amazing and do their job really well. It all boils down to what you want - speed and power for the Wildtrak or versatility and comfort for the Badlands.”
References
While this comparison has been put together to help you choose the perfect Ford Bronco trim you may want to check out the official Ford website for the most up-to-date pricing and specs. Additionally numerous automotive review sites like MotorTrend and Car and Driver offer in-depth road tests and real-world feedback on both trims.
This comparison is designed to give you a real look at both vehicles’ pros and cons helping you choose the best trim for your needs whether you’re looking for high-speed desert fun or rock-crawling adventures!