2021 Audi Q3 vs 2022 Ford Bronco

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a postmodern automotive styling with its massive corporate grille, which complemented its stout and chunky design. This design suggested utility and dynamic handling, though it primarily delivered on the latter. Inside, the Q3's cabin mirrored this modern aesthetic, with a dash design that highlighted the center touchscreen. When the Q3's interior debuted in 2019, it was a standout, but by 2021, Volkswagen's similar designs had somewhat diminished its uniqueness. Despite this, the Q3's interior remained modern and refined, though not as exclusive as before.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Bronco boasted attractive retro styling and a go-anywhere attitude, making it highly sought after. The Bronco's design was unapologetically utilitarian, with features like large recovery hooks, removable fender flares, and a full-size spare tire. Its modular construction allowed for easy customization, appealing to its enthusiastic fan base. Inside, the Bronco continued its utilitarian theme with features like sealed switches, marine-grade vinyl upholstery, and drain plugs, allowing for easy cleaning after off-road adventures. Despite its rugged appearance, the Bronco incorporated technology like G.O.A.T. modes and a digital instrument panel, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. The S-Line trim offered a more powerful version of the same engine, delivering 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This optional power unit was previously standard, but Audi lowered the base MSRP by $2,000, making the 228-hp engine a $2,000 option. The Q3's handling was nimble, providing a comfortable ride without compromising on engagement, thanks to Audi's Drive Select with various modes.

The 2022 Ford Bronco featured a base turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. An optional 2.7-liter V6 engine offered 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The four-cylinder engine came with a seven-speed manual transmission, notable for its crawl gear, while the V6 had a mandatory 10-speed automatic. All Broncos had four-wheel drive and an electronic two-speed transfer case. The Bronco excelled off-road, with models like the Everglades conquering challenging terrains effortlessly. On pavement, the Bronco impressed with its smooth ride and precise steering, outperforming rivals like the Jeep Wrangler.

The 2021 Audi Q3 offered 48 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the space behind the seats was decent for a subcompact luxury SUV, the overall cargo capacity was subpar for the class. However, the Q3 compensated with ample passenger space, providing comfortable seating for four adults on road trips, though packing light was advisable.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design contributed to its spacious interior, offering generous headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Cargo capacity varied by model and roof type, with the two-door hard-top accommodating up to 22.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 52.3 cubic feet with them folded. The four-door hard-top increased capacity to 35.6 cubic feet behind and 77.6 cubic feet with seats folded. Clever storage solutions and accessories, like stowable doors and removable fender flares, enhanced the Bronco's utility.

The 2021 Audi Q3 featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Audi's MMI system, offering logical menu navigation, standard Android Auto, and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with features like wireless device charging and a Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit replaced the conventional instrument cluster with a customizable digital display.

The 2022 Ford Bronco smartly integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities. G.O.A.T. modes provided off-road confidence, while a forward-looking trail camera helped navigate challenging terrains. The Bronco's Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses, sharp graphics, and off-road apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complementing the available wireless charging pad.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Lane-departure warning was also standard. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition. Additional options included a 360-degree camera system and self-parking assist.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered standard safety features like hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features like frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA awarded the four-door Bronco four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection. The IIHS rated the Bronco "Good" in most tests, with an "Acceptable" score for head restraints and seats.