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The 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades is an off-road SUV that's designed to take on the toughest terrain. It has a number of features that make it perfect for off-roading, such as a high ground clearance, 35-inch tires, and a winch. The interior is also designed for off-road use, with features like rubber floor mats and drain plugs in the seats.
The Ford Bronco is arguably the most exciting off-roader since the Jeep Wrangler. It does everything the Wrangler can, and more! Both offer removable doors for open-air thrills, but only the Bronco keeps your mirrors attached. While both conquer mud with gusto, the Bronco tackles highways between puddles with significantly less noise. Plus, it boasts more base horsepower, with options ranging from a peppy 300-hp turbo-four to a muscular 330-hp twin-turbo V6. And if that's not enough, feast your eyes on the monstrous 418-hp Bronco Raptor, a beast in its own right.
What's New for 2023
In 2023, Ford pays homage to the golden era of the Bronco by introducing the special Bronco Heritage Edition, available for both two- and four-door models, which meticulously resurrects the iconic look of the 1960s. Rooted in the Big Bend trim and enhanced with the Sasquatch package, the Bronco Heritage Edition comes with a robust 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter engine, offering drivers the choice between a seven-speed manual transmission or an available 10-speed automatic transmission. Embracing a nostalgic aesthetic, the Heritage Edition features throwback elements, including a pristine white grille, matching roof, and a distinct set of 1960s-inspired wheels, creating a striking visual tribute to the Bronco's historic roots.
Additionally, Ford introduces a more opulent Heritage Limited Edition, built upon the Badlands trim level, elevating the experience with exclusive details such as metal Bronco-script fender badging, sumptuous leather-trimmed plaid seats, and the distinguished Heritage Limited badging adorning the center console. These enhancements not only capture the essence of the past but also infuse the 2023 Ford Bronco with a unique blend of vintage charm and contemporary performance.
What's New In Bronco for 2024
While major updates might be taking a backseat for the 2024 Bronco, it's not entirely standing still. Here's a quick rundown of what's new:
Tech Upgrade: Say goodbye to the smaller screens! The 12.0-inch infotainment system is now standard across all Bronco trims, bringing a modern and convenient tech boost to your off-road adventures.
Badlands Gets Tougher: The Bronco Badlands, known for its off-road prowess, is getting even more rugged. A heavy-duty bumper is now part of its standard equipment, further bolstering its ability to tackle challenging terrain with confidence.
Streamlined Lineup: Ford has streamlined the Bronco lineup by dropping the base trim. This means you'll have a more focused selection of trims to choose from, each packed with features tailored for specific needs.
The 2023 Ford Bronc is comes in nine trims: Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Heritage Edition, Badlands, Everglades, Wildtrak, and Heritage Limited Edition. The 2023 Ford Bronco starts at $36,785 and goes up to $71, 340. Torque News this time test drove the Everglades trim, which is offered at $56,540.
Power and Performance
Under the hood of the 2023 Ford Bronco lies the choice between two capable, but contrasting, powertrains. For those who thrive on efficiency and agility, the standard 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder roars to life. Paired with the seven-speed manual transmission, it transforms the Bronco into a thrilling off-road companion, offering a visceral connection to the terrain through direct gear changes and spirited engine feedback. However, if raw power is your game, the optional 330-hp twin-turbo 2.7-liter V-6 is ready to unleash its muscle. While mated to the smooth 10-speed automatic, it catapults the Bronco forward with ferocious gusto, especially appreciated when tackling steep inclines or hauling heavier loads.
But the Bronco's engine choices are just the beginning. To truly unleash its off-road beast, a buffet of options awaits. For those who dare to conquer the deepest mud pits, 35-inch mud-terrain tires offer unmatched grip, while beadlock-capable wheels ensure a secure hold even when the pressure drops. For maximum traction in any situation, electronic locking front and rear differentials come to the party, sending power precisely where it's needed most. And when the terrain demands maximum articulation, the optional sway-bar-disconnect feature lets the axles move independently, tackling obstacles with ease.
Note that the Bronco Everglades has some wind noise due to the removable roof and doors. Additionally, it doesn't have a sway bar disconnect, which could limit its off-road performance compared to Broncos with this feature. Overall, the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades is a capable and fun off-road SUV that's perfect for people who want to explore the unbeaten path. However, it's important to be aware of the higher price tag and some wind noise before making a decision.
The Bronco's Monroney states that the Everglade trim's fuel economy is 18 MPG and 18/17 city/highway respectively. Watch my review of the MPG of the 2023 Ford Bronco at the Torque News Youtube channel discussing why I didn't get this mileage and what I changed to progressively improve my MPG.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Ford Bronco Everglade is an off-road warrior ready to tackle the muddiest, sloppiest terrains, and its exterior design speaks volumes about its capabilities. Here's a breakdown of its rugged and functional features:
Ruggedness Reigns Supreme:
- High ground clearance: With elevated fenders and undercarriage, the Everglade effortlessly conquers obstacles and wades through deep water (up to 32.5 inches with the snorkel!).
- Aggressive tires: 35-inch all-terrain tires with chunky tread provide exceptional grip and stability on even the most challenging terrain.
- Protective armor: Rock rails shield the undercarriage from rocks and debris, while fender flares keep mud and spray contained.
- Functional features: A Ford Performance by WARN® winch is seamlessly integrated into the front bumper, ready to pull you out of any sticky situation. Removable grab handles on the A-pillars and roof ensure easy entry and exit when conquering muddy slopes.
A Splash of Color:
- Seashell Gray exterior: This unique color palette is reminiscent of wet rocks and sandy beaches, perfectly blending with the Everglade's adventurous spirit.
- Contrasting accents: Black accents on the grille, mirrors, and door handles add a touch of boldness and highlight the vehicle's ruggedness.
- Optional graphics: Choose from eye-catching graphics like the "Bronco Everglades" hood decal or the "Bronco H2O" rear tailgate decal to personalize your off-road machine.
Built for Function and Convenience:
- Modular bumper: The removable modular bumper allows for easy customization and accessory installation, tailoring the Everglade to your specific needs.
- Removable roof and doors: Embrace the elements and enjoy open-air freedom with the removable roof and doors. Drainage features in the interior make cleanup a breeze after messy adventures.
- Washable interior: Marine-grade vinyl seating and rubberized flooring stand up to mud, water, and whatever else your adventures throw at you. Simply hose it down for a quick and easy clean-up.
The 2023 Ford Bronco Everglade's exterior design is more than just aesthetics; it's a testament to its off-road capability and functionality. From its imposing stance and bold accents to its practical features and removable elements, the Everglade is a true mud-loving beast ready to take on any challenge with style and confidence.
Ready to Tackle Anything, with Comfort and Tech: The 2023 Ford Bronco Everglade's Interior
The 2023 Ford Bronco Everglade isn't just about brawn; it's also about brains and practicality inside. Imagine this: you've waded through muddy trenches, climbed slippery slopes, and emerged victorious.
Now, stepping into the Everglade's cabin feels like entering a welcoming oasis. Marine-grade vinyl seats and rubberized floors shrug off dirt and water, while removable doors and roof let you bask in the post-conquest breeze. Need to capture the action? A clever dashboard rack holds your GoPro or smartphone, ready to document your adventures.
But the Everglade isn't just about roughhousing. Ford's Sync 4 infotainment system, housed on an 8.0- or 12.0-inch touchscreen, puts technology at your fingertips. Stay connected with over-the-air updates, cloud connectivity, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. If you think you may want to dim or increase the brightness of the Bronco's touchscreen, see my review of how to dim or reset the 2023 Bronco's touchscreen brightness below.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep your music and navigation flowing seamlessly. Want to blast epic tunes after conquering a particularly nasty trail? Upgrade to the B&O stereo and immerse yourself in sound.
The backseat is pretty spacious too.
Sure, some might find the plastic interior on higher trims a bit jarring compared to the rugged exterior. But hey, when you're washing mud off your shoes and planning your next off-road escapade, that's a minor detail. The Everglade's interior is built for function and fun, ready to accommodate every adventure, from the muddy to the triumphant. So, crank up the tunes, navigate the next challenge, and let the Everglade's interior be your comfortable hub for outdoor victories.
The Drive
The Bronco's prowess isn't limited to the rough stuff. My first driving impressions revealed a surprising on-road refinement. Gone are the days of clumsy off-roaders lumbering on the highway.
The Bronco's steering is surprisingly precise, a welcome departure from the Jeep Wrangler's more sluggish response. Its independent front suspension delivers a comfortable and controlled ride, making it a genuine contender for daily driving duties.
Sure, larger tires and soft suspension induce some brake dive, and the body-on-frame construction isn't exactly whispering luxury. But the Bronco's charm lies in its versatility. It tackles the toughest trails with undeniable confidence, yet transforms into a surprisingly capable and comfortable companion on the open road. So, whether you're a weekend adventurer or a seasoned off-road warrior, the 2023 Ford Bronco's engine and transmission options, coupled with its impressive array of terrain-taming features, make it a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the beaten path.
And at the end of this review, I want to leave with you a few questions about the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades and invite you to discuss them in the comments section below.
Do you prefer the open-air possibilities of the 2023 Ford Bronco to the Jeep Wrangler's similar offerings? Why or why not? Are there any unique features of the Bronco's interior that sway your opinion?
How do you feel about the trade-offs in the Bronco's interior materials, with some trims featuring more plastic than others? Does the focus on practicality and weather resistance outweigh the potential aesthetic downside?
Which infotainment features of the 2023 Bronco Everglade seem most appealing to you for your off-road adventures? Do you think the available upgrades, like the B&O stereo and navigation, are worth the extra cost?
By the way, look how easy it is to update or reset the software in this Ford Bronco by using the touchscreen. It literally takes about 5 seconds.
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.
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