2025 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Ford Bronco

The 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in its two-door variant. The Sasquatch Package enhanced its rugged appearance with a suspension lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires, giving it a wide, purposeful stance. Without this package, the Bronco appeared somewhat awkward due to its factory tires. The interior featured an 8-inch digital display and a 12-inch touchscreen, with a design nodding to the original Bronco's metal dashboard. Despite its rugged charm, the Bronco's marine-grade upholstery was less breathable, making it uncomfortable in hot conditions.

In contrast, the 2025 Ford Explorer showcased a sleeker, more modern design with a refreshed front end and new LED taillights. The interior improvements were significant, offering a more competitive and appealing environment. The Explorer reduced its trim levels to four, including the new base Active trim and the sporty ST-Line. The ST-Line featured a comfortable interior with heated seats and a Premium Package that added luxury touches. The Explorer's design and features made it a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment.

The 2024 Ford Bronco offered a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional 2.7-liter V6 delivered 330 hp and 415 lb-ft, while the Raptor model boasted a 3.0-liter V6 with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft. The Bronco's off-road capabilities were enhanced by technologies like Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist. However, its fuel efficiency was lacking, with an average of 16.9 mpg during testing.

The 2025 Ford Explorer provided two engine options: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 hp and 310 lb-ft, and a 3.0-liter V6 with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft for the ST model. All Explorers featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and optional 4WD. The ST-Line's performance was enhanced by larger wheels and a Street Package, offering a delightful driving experience. The Explorer's fuel economy was more favorable, with the ST-Line averaging 23.8 mpg.

The 2024 Ford Bronco's interior was spacious, especially in the four-door model, which offered more room than its Jeep Wrangler rival. The Bronco's cargo space varied with the roof configuration, providing up to 83 cubic feet in the four-door model. The removable roof and doors allowed for a customizable open-air experience, though the marine-grade upholstery was less comfortable in humid conditions.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line's interior featured comfortable seats with breathable fabric, and the Premium Package added luxury touches like ambient lighting and massage seats. Cargo space was competitive, with up to 85.8 cubic feet available. The Explorer's interior design prioritized comfort and practicality.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came with a 12-inch touchscreen featuring Sync 4, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, users experienced connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and inconsistent voice recognition. The Bronco Trail App offered trail maps and information, enhancing its off-road appeal.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, Google Built-in, and Amazon Alexa. The system was user-friendly, with Google Maps and app downloads available. The Explorer offered B&O sound systems, with the ST-Line featuring a 10-speaker setup. The technology package was comprehensive and easy to use.

The 2024 Ford Bronco included standard safety features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, enhancing safety and maneuverability. The Bronco received favorable IIHS ratings, except for its headlight performance.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. The ST-Line and higher trims included BlueCruise, Ford’s hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings from NHTSA.