The Ford Bronco Sasquatch Isn’t the Best Setup For Off-Roading
Hold on to the reigns. It’s time for a Ford Bronco Sasquatch suspension deep dive. While the 2021 Ford Bronco Sasquatch may be the most attractive horse in the barn, the Badlands setup may actually be better for off-roading.
The Ford Bronco Sasquatch might not be the best for off-roading
The Ford Bronco Sasquatch package costs about $4,995 and is seen as the most capable option for off-roading. But you have to get it with the 10-speed automatic transmission, which costs about $1,595, and the Advanced 4×4 package for $795. This brings the total to $7,385.
However, with 2022 models, the Sasquatch package can be paired with the seven-speed manual transmission on each trim. Without any extras added, the Bronco base model with the Sasquatch package could come out to about $37,300. At least that’s under $40,000. The package is standard with the Wildtrak, and First Edition trims.
The Sasquatch package comes with 35-inch tires with deadlock-capable wheels, 17-inch bead-lock capable wheels, upgraded locking axles, an electromechanical transfer case, a shorter 4.7 drive ratio, and the Bilstein Monotube shocks from the Badlands trim.
Potential Bronco Sasquatch issues
According to Autoblog, because the Ford Bronco Sasquatch comes with 35-inch tires, it could be less capable. The larger tires stuff the wheel wells more. This can impact the flex and articulation.
During a flex test, the 35s earned a 648-point maxim Flex index score, which is good. But the Badlands without the Sasquatch package sits on 33-inch tires, and it would probably earn an even better score.
Also, we’re familiar with Jeep Wrangler fans constantly mentioning that solid front axles flex more. This is true. They might be more durable as well. But the Bronco’s independent front suspension provides a smoother ride.
The suspension on the Bronco actually comes from the Ford Ranger Raptor that’s sold in Australia. It’s a lot beefier than the Ranger we have here. It provides a wide-track, long-travel independent front suspension that the Ford Bronco Raptor is expected to build upon.
Also, the two-door Bronco seems to be missing a rear stabilizer bar. The 12-blot bead lock rings add about 89 pounds to the tire assembly weight, so don’t lift with your back.
You might want to wait for the 2022 Bronco
Getting a 2021 Ford Bronco Sasquatch and other trims have been challenging this year due to production delays and equipment shortages. But the more capable Bronco Raptor could be more capable than the Sasquatch.
For 2022 the Bronco is gaining three new colors, including Eruption Green, Hot Pepper Red Metallic, and Cyber Orange. Antimatter Blue, Lightning Blue Metallic, and Rapid Red will no longer be available.
Upcoming special editions include the Bronco Raptor and Bronco Everglades. Pricing is increasing by about $400 to $800 on each trim. However, with how high dealers are marking up the MSRPs, paying more shouldn’t be a surprise.
The interior remains the same. While the Ford Bronco has an exceptional suspension, the Jeep Wrangler can do a little more in extreme conditions. We’ll keep an eye out for updates about the upcoming Raptor.