Thinking about buying a Bronco… is it worth it?

Hi everyone, I’ve been thinking about getting a Bronco, maybe the Black Diamond or Outer Banks trim. I’m 40 and have never bought something really fun for myself before. My current car is great on gas (I get about 31 mpg), but it’s just not comfortable or enjoyable to drive.

I live in the Midwest where winters can be rough, and a Bronco would make driving in the snow so much easier. My commute is about 32 miles each way, and I’ve seen that the Bronco only gets about 17 mpg, which worries me a bit. Still, it seems like such a cool vehicle to have. What do you think? Is it worth it to trade comfort and style for worse mileage?

I absolutely love my manual 4-door Badlands. It’s such a joy to drive. Life’s too short not to enjoy the ride. Plant a tree or do something else to offset your carbon footprint if it helps you feel better about it.

@Terry
Couldn’t agree more. Well said!

@Terry
Manual 4-door Badlands crew here too! It’s my first new car, and it’s so special to me. I took it out in 9 inches of snow last winter, and it handled like a champ. Hope you enjoy yours as much as I enjoy mine!

If you don’t turn around to look at your car after you park it, you bought the wrong car.

Cortland said:
If you don’t turn around to look at your car after you park it, you bought the wrong car.

Haha, I do this all the time. Glad I’m not the only one.

I’m in Wisconsin and my 2-door Black Diamond with snow tires is amazing in the snow. I’m pretty frugal too, so I went for the Black Diamond because it’s the cheapest trim that comes with heated seats, which are a must for winter. You’ll love how it handles snowy roads.

@Poe
You can get heated seats in the Big Bend too, which is a bit cheaper.

Eli said:
@Poe
You can get heated seats in the Big Bend too, which is a bit cheaper.

You’re right! The Big Bend is definitely a good option, especially if the price difference matters.

For what it’s worth, I have a Black Diamond with the 2.3L engine, and I’m averaging about 21 mpg.

Indigo said:
For what it’s worth, I have a Black Diamond with the 2.3L engine, and I’m averaging about 21 mpg.

Do you mostly drive on the highway or in the city?

Tobi said:

Indigo said:
For what it’s worth, I have a Black Diamond with the 2.3L engine, and I’m averaging about 21 mpg.

Do you mostly drive on the highway or in the city?

Mostly suburban roads, around 50 mph.

You spend a lot of time in your car—might as well enjoy it. If the Bronco makes you happy, go for it. Life’s too short to drive something you don’t love.

Treat yourself! You can’t take money with you when you’re gone, and driving a Bronco is sure to make your day better. Are you leaning towards those trims because you plan to off-road?

Neve said:
Treat yourself! You can’t take money with you when you’re gone, and driving a Bronco is sure to make your day better. Are you leaning towards those trims because you plan to off-road?

Thanks for the encouragement! Nope, I have no plans for off-roading—it’ll just be my daily driver. I liked those trims because they’re the ones I’ve seen around town. Any advice on which would suit me best?

@Kaius
If you’re not off-roading, go for the Outer Banks or Big Bend. They’re more focused on comfort and come with heated seats if you get the mid-package. The Black Diamond is more for trail use.

What do you need from your Bronco? Black Diamond is better for trails, while Outer Banks offers more comfort features like a bigger screen and heated seats. Something to think about.

Clay said:
What do you need from your Bronco? Black Diamond is better for trails, while Outer Banks offers more comfort features like a bigger screen and heated seats. Something to think about.

I want something that handles snow well and has a good infotainment system. Heated seats are a must too.

@Kaius
Sounds like Outer Banks might be your best bet. It’s great for snow and has the comfort features you want.

Go for it! I switched from a Hyundai Elantra to a Bronco, and it’s been a game-changer. It’s fun to drive and perfect for Midwest winters. You’ll love it.