Bronco Wildtrak vs Badlands
Last Updated August 15, 2024 | Nate MoonisThe Badlands and Wildtrak trims are 2 of the 8 released for the 2021/2022 Ford Bronco. Both are highly capable off-roaders that you can take almost anywhere in their stock configurations.
However, what do you really get with the extra $6,000 between the Badlands and Wildtrak? In this article, we'll discuss the differences between the Badlands and Wildtrak trim levels to help you make the right choice.
| Spec | Bronco Wildtrak | Bronco Badlands |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 2-Door: $60,225 4-Door: $60,765 |
2-Door: $50,095 4-Door: $51,385 |
| Engine | 2.7L EcoBoost | 2.3L EcoBoost Optional: 2.7L EcoBoost |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic with Trail Control | 7-Speed Manual with Crawler Gear Optional: 10-Speed Automatic with Trail Control |
| G.O.A.T. Modes | Normal, ECO, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Mud/Ruts, and Baja | Normal, ECO, Slippery, Sand, Mud/Ruts, Rock Crawl, and Baja |
| Wheels and Tires | 17" black-painted aluminum beadlock-capable wheels 35" LT315/70R17 BSW Mud-Terrain tires | 17-inch Carbonized Gray-painted machined face aluminum wheels 33-inch LT285/70R17 all-terrain tires |
| 4WD System | Advanced 4x4 with automatic on-demand engagement | Advanced 4x4 with automatic on-demand engagement |
Bronco Wildtrak
High-Speed Off-Roading
The Wildtrak is the range-topper. It comes with the Sasquatch Package, standard. This means 35-inch tires wrapped around 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels. If that's not enough, the front and rear diffs and Bilstein shocks are also standard. Plus, the engine is the twin-turbo 2.7 EcoBoost with 10-speed automatic.
With a black hardtop, wheels, and grille (plus unique hood graphic), it's sure to stand out. Technically the Bronco Raptor trim is above the Wildtrak, but in terms of dollars to value the Wildtrak is king. The Raptor does come equipped with a few extra off-road upgrades, including 37-inch tires.
Bronco Badlands
Extreme Off-Roading
The Badlands trim comes off-road ready straight from the dealership.
7 G.O.A.T modes, front stabilizer bar disconnect, advanced 4x4 with automatic on-demand engagement, and a locking front and rear diff are all awesome off-road features. If you want to do some serious off-roading, many consider this a step up from the Black Diamond trim level.
Even though this is a serious, off-road ready machine, you don't miss out on some important interior upgrades. You get an 8" SYNC 4 touchscreen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto as standard, along with rubberized flooring and carpeted floor mats.
If you're really serious about off-roading, this is a great investment with plenty of room to grow.
Bronco Wildtrak vs Badlands: Which Should You Buy?
Both of these trim levels are great for someone looking for a great off-roader that's sure to perform.
The Wildtrak's biggest advantage over the Badlands is the addition of the Sasquatch package as standard. The larger tires with beadlock-capable wheels is a dealbreaker for many veteran enthusiasts. You also get the more powerful 2.7L EcoBoost without having to upgrade.
The Badlands, on the other hand, has the optional 7-speed manual for added precision when tackling tough obstacles on the trail. The nearly $6,000 difference between the two means that you'll have plenty of room for supportive mods like light bars and recovery gear in your budget.
Still not sure if either of these trims is right for you? See how they stack up to these other popular Bronco trim options:
