Ford Bronco vs Land Rover Defender - Rugged Off-Road SUV Comparison

Introduction

The new Ford Bronco and the Land Rover Defender are two of the most anticipated SUVs to hit the market in years. Both vehicles deliver classic off-road capability and rugged styling, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts seeking a capable yet stylish 4x4. But which one is better? Let's take a detailed look at how the revived Ford Bronco stacks up against the iconic Land Rover Defender.

History

The Ford Bronco has an illustrious history stretching back to the 1960s, serving as a sporty and youthful alternative to larger trucks. The original Bronco was a compact two-door off-roader, which grew larger over successive generations. The Bronco went out of production in 1996, leaving Ford without a proper Jeep Wrangler competitor. Following years of consumer demand, the Bronco is back for 2021 and poised to battle the Wrangler like never before.

The Land Rover Defender dates back even further, to 1948, and is one of Land Rover's most recognizable nameplates. It earned a reputation for capability and durability, undergoing continual improvements over its long production run. Safety and emissions regulations forced Land Rover to stop producing the classic Defender in 2016. An all-new model debuted for 2020, retaining the Defender's iconic boxy shape and off-road aptitude while modernizing the driving experience.

The Bronco Delivers Retro Styling, The Defender A Modern Interpretation

Both SUVs incorporate heritage-inspired design cues, but their styling approaches differ. The new Bronco is essentially a modern interpretation of the original, with its boxy proportions, short overhangs and round headlights. Two and four-door versions are offered, along with removeable roof panels and doors on certain trims. The Defender adopts a more evolutional approach, keeping iconic elements like the short front and rear overhangs, upright windshield and side-hinged rear door while incorporating modern styling touches.

Similar Capabilities, Different Execution

Underneath, both SUVs utilize body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent suspension for maximum off-road performance. The Defender offers a standard two-speed transfer case, central tire inflation and up to 11.5-inches of ground clearance on air suspension models. The Bronco gets up to 11.6-inches of clearance plus available front and rear locking differentials and 35-inch off-road tires. While capability is similar, the Defender leans more luxury while the Bronco emphasizes its go-anywhere attitude.

Powertrains - Potent and Efficient

The new Defender offers turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, producing 296 horsepower and 395 horsepower respectively. An efficient plug-in hybrid model is coming soon too. The Bronco gets Ford's turbo 2.3L and 2.7L EcoBoost engines, with up to 310 horsepower on tap. While both SUVs offer compelling powertrain options, the Defender PHEV will appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

Performance - Advantage Defender

When equipped with the powerful six-cylinder engine, the Defender can sprint to 60mph in around 5.7 seconds - quite quick for a boxy 4x4. The Bronco's acceleration trails slightly behind. In terms of top speed, the Defender also wins out with its 119mph maximum versus the Bronco's projected 107-110mph limit. Off the line, the Defender looks to be a bit quicker but both cruise comfortably on-highway. Off-road, with abundant torque and short gearing, both trucks can crawl over rough terrain with ease.

Fuel Economy and Range

Given its more efficient powertrains, the Defender has an edge in fuel economy over the Bronco's turbo engines. The four-cylinder Defender is EPA rated at 21mpg combined versus an estimated 20mpg for the Bronco four-cylinder. At 19mpg combined, the powerful Defender six-cylinder still beats the Bronco's six-cylinder fuel economy. The Defender's optional diesel should also surpass the Bronco's mpg figures. Until the plug-in hybrid arrives, the Bronco will have an advantage in terms of driving range thanks to its larger fuel tank.

Interior Comfort and Design

Both the Defender and Bronco interiors reflect the overall vibes of their exteriors - more rough around the edges in the Bronco while the Defender leans upscale. The Bronco sticks to a relatively straightforward layout with large physical buttons and water-resistant marine-grade vinyl on the seats and textured rubber flooring. The available 12-inch touchscreen with Ford's SYNC 4 software adds modern tech. The Defender goes for a premium feel with leather seats, digital displays and the latest Land Rover tech like available touchscreens up to 11.4-inches large.

Comfort and Space

The Defender has an edge in interior comfort and refinement. Road and wind noise are better suppressed and material quality is higher. The Defender also offers more front and rear legroom than the Bronco, especially in the four-door variants. Rear cargo space is close but the Defender squeezes out a bit more room. Both SUVs provide excellent outward visibility courtesy of short front ends and boxy shapes. The Defender's rear window is larger while the Bronco has neatly removable roof panels for an open-air feel.

Technology and Connectivity

Ford's latest SYNC 4 infotainment software on higher Bronco trims stacks up nicely against Land Rover's excellent Touch Pro Duo interface on the Defender. Both systems are fast and intuitive with full smartphone integration. The Bronco gets points for including a nifty removable Bluetooth speaker that travelers can take on off-road excursions. But the Defender counters with available adaptive cruise control, more advanced driver assists and an Activity Key wristband that locks and unlocks the doors.

Off-Road Performance

This is where the rubber meets the dirt. As authentic 4x4s, both the Defender and Bronco are engineered for incredible off-road performance. Equipped with the Sasquatch package and available locking differentials, the Bronco can crawl over rocky terrain, charge up steep grades and conquer deep ruts. The short wheelbase two-door configuration also provides excellent breakover and departure angles. The Defender uses sophisticated traction aids and ride height adjustments to provide outstanding articulation off-road.

The Bronco Is More Hardcore, The Defender Delivers Luxury

The Bronco ultimately edges out the Defender in terms of outright rock crawling capability. Available 35-inch mud terrain tires, heavy-duty Bilstein dampers and shorter overhangs provide an advantage in ultra-tough terrain. But the Defender offers greater ride comfort on and off-road, thanks to adaptive air suspension. Its nicely trimmed interior also stays cleaner than the Bronco's. For the ultimate in capability, the Bronco wins while the Defender is best for those who want capability paired with luxury.

Customization and Accessories Galore

One area where both SUVs shine is the huge range of factory accessories and customization options. The Bronco offers more than 200 accessories enabling owners to easily personalize their vehicle. The available Sasquatch package also transforms the Bronco into an off-road beast. The Defender pushes into luxury territory with options like Carpathian Edition models and posh SVAutobiography trims. Individual options like roof racks, brush guards, towing packages and all-terrain tires are available for both vehicles too.

Verdict - Two New Off-Road Icons

The revived Ford Bronco and latest Land Rover Defender both impress in their own ways. The Bronco leans more heavily into rugged off-road performance and customization, delivering a fun 4x4 experience with retro style. The Defender goes upscale with refined on-road manners and a high-tech interior to go with its stellar off-road skills. Pricing is similar, starting in the mid $40,000s and ranging over $60,000 for the top trims.

For shoppers who prioritize hard-core capability, the Bronco comes out ahead. Its shorter wheelbase, beefy off-road hardware and tough styling play perfectly into trail driving. Adventure seekers will appreciate the Bronco's talents. But buyers wanting both luxury and competence get the ideal blend in the Defender. Its tech, comfort and refinement create a more well-rounded 4x4 that still conquers the rough stuff with ease.

Either model is an excellent choice. The Bronco recaptures Ford's off-road glory while the Defender ushers in an exciting new chapter for a Land Rover legend. For new life breathed into two iconic SUVs, the winners are 4x4 fans seeking rugged and stylish adventure vehicles.

FAQs

Which SUV has more off-road capability?

The Ford Bronco edges out the Defender when it comes to hardcore rock crawling and off-road performance. Its shorter wheelbase, locking differentials, and 35-inch tire option make it a beast over rough terrain. But the Defender is no slouch off-road either with its sophisticated traction aids and adjustable air suspension.

Which one has a nicer interior and on-road manners?

The Land Rover Defender clearly provides a more upscale and refined interior experience compared to the Bronco. It uses higher quality materials, has better noise insulation, and offers the latest tech and driver assists. The Defender also delivers better on-road handling and a more comfortable ride.

Which is less expensive?

Base pricing is similar for both the base Ford Bronco and Land Rover Defender - starting in the mid $40,000 range. Higher trims can quickly push the price over $60,000 for either SUV. The Bronco has a slight edge for value since its capabilities rival the Defender at a lower cost. But the Defender adds more luxury features andrefinements to justify its pricing.