Only 1 Ford SUV Managed to Defeat the Jeep Wrangler
It’s not easy to beat the Jeep Wrangler. This robust SUV has an ionic nameplate that stretches back to World War II. However, being known for having unmatched off-roading skills, being durable, and having excellent resale value didn’t stop buyers from picking a popular Ford SUV over the 2022 Jeep Wrangler. Surprise, it’s not the Bronco, but we beat some of y’all wish it was!
This Ford SUV outsold the 2022 Jeep Wrangler
Only one Ford SUV managed to beat the 2022 Jeep Wrangler with more sales. But it might not be the option that you think. We know that the 2022 Ford Bronco is an enticing Wranlger rival, but it fell short.
Car and Driver shared that the 2022 Jeep Wrangler sold about 181,409 units this year, while the 2022 Ford Bronco moved about 117,057 models. That gives the Wrangler a 64,352 sales advantage over the Bronco. Sorry pony bros.
However, the 2022 Ford Explorer crushed them both by selling 207,673 units. That places it ahead of the Wrangler by 26,264 models. The Explorer actually experienced a six percent decrease in sales compared to 2021 but still managed to be on the list of the top 25 best-selling vehicles.
The Wrangler experienced an 11% drop compared to 2021, and the Bronco could be responsible for taking some of its sales. Also, the Ford Bronco didn’t make it on the list of best-selling options for 2022. Fans might be waiting for the refreshed 2024 Wrangler as well.
But of course, the ongoing semiconductor chip shortage and other supply chain constraints may be responsible for limiting production and sales.
Is the 2022 Ford Explorer better than the Wrangler?
The 2022 Ford Explorer and 2022 Jeep Wrangler don’t exactly compare apples to apples. For example, the Explorer has an advantage by offering a third row. You have to at least upgrade to the Jeep Grand Cherokee L for three rows in a Jeep.
But the Jeep Wrangler can turn into a convertible and has unmatched off-roading capabilities. Even though the Explorer Timberline has more off-roading chops, it won’t keep up with the Wrangler on more difficult trails. Meet the Wrangler in Utah before you start really bragging, Explorer.
The Explorer is a bit more athletic, mainly thanks to the ST-Line model. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 in under six seconds, while the Wrangler gets there in about 5.2 seconds. Also, it may have a smoother ride and more responsive handling due to its unibody design.
The 2022 Wrangler has a traditional body-on-frame build to increase suspension travel. But that results in a bumpier ride. However, both SUVs are criticized for having too much wind and road noise.
Towing is another Explorer advantage to consider. It can pull up to 5,600 lbs when properly equipped. The 2022 Wrangler maxes out at 3,500 lbs.
Does the Wrangler or Explorer have better features?
The 2022 Ford Explorer has an underwhelming interior quality with hard plastics and cheap materials unless you move up to more expensive trim levels. The 2022 Jeep Wrangler is a bit more modern and refined with durable materials.
Also, the Jeep Wrangler has more modern and innovative tech. The 10.1-inch touchscreen in the Explorer has an awkward vertical layout for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But the Explorer does have more standard safety features.
It seems like the 2022 Ford Explorer beat the 2022 Jeep Wrangler because it’s a little more practical. It could be more comfortable, can tow more, and offers a third row.
Perhaps in 2023, the Ford Bronco will make a comeback against both options. We can’t wait to see the new refresher 2024 Ford Explorer model. It should have a better interior quality with updated tech.
