**2022 Ford Bronco Raptor Review: A Car That Conquers All**
The 2022 Ford Bronco SUV is positioned as a modern-retro alternative to the Jeep Wrangler, offering unique advantages. This off-road SUV is equipped with standard 4×4 capability on a sturdy pickup truck frame. Available in either two-door or four-door options with soft-top or hard-top configurations, the Bronco aims to challenge the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon’s dominance in the off-road segment.
In 2022, the Bronco Raptor model has made its entrance into the market. Ford has hinted at an Everglades model featuring a winch and a snorkel, but the release date is yet to be confirmed. The color and off-road options have been expanded for 2022, and now the Sasquatch package can be combined with the 7-speed manual transmission.
The 2022 Ford Bronco brings a sense of enjoyment akin to a real-life Lego set. The Bronco perfectly blends retro elements with modern features, making a notable return after a 25-year absence in an SUV-dominated market. In the sea of SUVs, the boxy Bronco distinguishes itself by paying homage to its flat-sided predecessor while offering a new level of customization.
The Bronco sports the iconic Bronco name on its broad grille and incorporates round headlights. While the smaller Bronco Sport shares a similar front profile, the distinction between the two is clear. Notable features of the Bronco include rock rails at the bottom, twin trail sights on the hood, and a rear swing gate that opens wide, serving as cargo space or an outdoor seat. Additionally, the Bronco allows for customizable options such as removable fender flares, modular heavy-duty bumpers, and new colors for 2022, including the eye-catching Eruption Green. Raptors come with detachable body components, enhancing their imposing presence in parking lots but presenting challenges when off-roading due to their wide stance.
The 2022 Ford Bronco prioritizes excitement over leisure. While speed is not its primary focus, the available 2.7-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine can accelerate to 60 mph in under seven seconds. The standard engine is a 2.3-liter turbo-4 producing 275 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque (or 300 hp and 325 lb-ft with premium fuel), shared with the Ranger pickup and Mustang coupe. The more potent 2.7-liter twin-turbo V-6, borrowed from the F-150, powers the Badlands and Wildtrak trims, generating 315 hp and 410 lb-ft (or 330 hp and 415 lb-ft with premium fuel). With either engine, the Bronco can tow up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped.
The 7-speed manual transmission is exclusive to the 2.3-liter engine and features a low “crawler” setting with a 94.75:1 gear ratio. Alternatively, the 2.7-liter engine comes paired with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission. The Bronco offers up to seven drive modes for varied driving dynamics, such as Sport mode, which enhances throttle response and steering feedback.
The Bronco’s steering adjusts to three settings and maintains centering without frequent corrections. Despite its weight of 4,500 lbs, the Bronco feels secure on the road, resisting wind impacts despite its non-aerodynamic design. Noise levels, both from wind and road, are notable in hard-top models at highway speeds.
Standard four-wheel drive with shift-on-the-fly capability or a rugged 2-speed transfer case is available, requiring a stop in neutral to engage 4L. The Bronco’s appeal lies in its accessibility for off-road newcomers and capabilities for seasoned off-road enthusiasts. With an independent front suspension, coil-over shocks at the rear, and electric-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, the Bronco offers a comfortable on-road ride. However, its off-road prowess shines through at higher speeds, demonstrating its primary focus. Various features such as skid plates and a robust 4×4 system with lockers bolster its off-road capabilities.
The Sasquatch off-road package, now compatible with the manual transmission, includes Bilstein position-sensitive shocks, 35-inch all-terrain tires, and advanced four-wheel drive. The Bronco performs admirably on challenging trails, handling steep rock inclines, deep water fords, muddy terrain, and utilizing the Baja mode for dynamic off-road maneuvers. Additional features like torque inhibitors, hill descent/ascent control, and a disconnecting sway bar contribute to its off-road prowess.
The top-tier Bronco Raptor model impresses with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine pumping out 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. Engineered for extreme off-road adventures, the Raptor boasts enhanced features like performance dual exhausts, a 2-speed transfer case with a 3.06 4Lo ratio, Dana 50 and Dana 44 axles, and wider bolt-on fenders accommodating 37-inch tires. With 13.1 inches of ground clearance, the Raptor effortlessly traverses challenging terrains, supported by Fox semi-active shocks and the ability to tow up to 4,500 lbs.
Despite its formidable turbo engines, the Bronco’s boxy design impacts its fuel efficiency ratings. Fuel economy ranges from 17 mpg combined for Badlands models to a top rating of 20 mpg combined with the 2.3-liter turbo-4 engine paired with a 7-speed manual or automatic transmission. The 2.7-liter V-6 engine, only available with the 10-speed automatic, achieves 19/20/19 mpg combined. Off-road models like the Black Diamond or Sasquatch versions achieve 18 mpg combined, while the Raptor model records the lowest fuel efficiency at 15/16/15 mpg combined.
In terms of safety, the NHTSA awards the Bronco a 4-star frontal crash and a 3-star rollover rating, with no overall score provided. The IIHS has noted issues with the head restraints but commended its performance in other crash tests. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, hill descent control, and automatic high beams. Additional safety technologies such as active lane control, blind-spot monitors, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist come as optional extras.
The Ford Bronco offers flexibility with two-door or four-door configurations, available in hard-top or soft-top options. The two-door Bronco accommodates four occupants, while the four-door model can seat up to five individuals with ample head and shoulder space. The four-door variant incurs an additional cost over the base two-door model but provides more cargo space and rear legroom. Two-door models come equipped with a segmented hard top that can be replaced with retractable soft-top options for on-the-go convertibility. Four-door models offer a quieter cloth soft top or optional hard-top configurations.The folding soft top of the Ford Bronco takes less than a minute to open and close, making it convenient for drivers. On the other hand, the hard tops require more effort to remove but can be managed by one person. The four-door hard-top roof consists of four panels that can be stowed in the back, but either the roof panels or the four doors can be stored, not both. The two-door model follows a similar pattern with the option to secure two roof panels or two doors in the back.
Removing the doors involves loosening two bolts on each door, disconnecting the electrical plug, and sliding the storage bag over them before stacking them vertically in the cargo area. The front doors weigh different amounts depending on the model, and lifting them properly is advised to avoid strain. Unlike the Wrangler, the Bronco’s side mirrors are mounted on the cowl and A-pillar, remaining in place even when the doors are off.
Inside, the Bronco features a horizontal dash with grab handles, a prominent Bronco name and badge, and modern tech touches like touchscreen displays. The cabin design reflects adventure and durability, with standard cloth upholstery and options for leather or vinyl seats for added protection. The interior is designed for easy cleaning and maintenance, featuring rubberized flooring and drain plugs for wading through water without worry.
The 2022 Ford Bronco offers various configurations and trim levels, starting from the base model with essential features like four-wheel drive and manual transmission. The different grades offer a range of mechanical and off-road components, with packages like Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, and Badlands catering to specific preferences and needs. From off-road enthusiasts to those seeking on-road comfort, there’s a Bronco model for everyone.
With its impressive off-road capabilities, flexible design, and advanced technology, the Ford Bronco stands out as a top choice for those looking to venture into the world of off-roading. Ford’s attention to detail and commitment to delivering a stellar driving experience make the Bronco a formidable contender in the market. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or a newcomer looking for a fresh adventure, the Bronco offers a compelling option worth considering.
