2023 Ford Bronco vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2023 Ford Bronco was a standout with its retro-cool styling and modern engineering, offered in nine distinct trim levels. Its blocky, upright shape, wide horizontal grille, and big round headlights were unmistakable, even from afar. The Base trim had a primitive charm with steel wheels and minimal adornment, while the Raptor trim showcased its top-tier status with a wide stance, elevated height, and massive fender flares. The Heritage trim added a nostalgic touch with a white grille, roof, and wheels, along with unique plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's design was not just for aesthetics; functional elements like cleats above the headlights and raised "fins" aided in cargo securing and obstacle navigation. Inside, the rugged theme continued with a broad dash, sealed switches, and waterproof materials, making it easy to clean after off-road adventures. The interior materials prioritized durability over luxury, with a reassuring heft and some creaking over bumps, yet it remained quieter than a Jeep Wrangler.

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, though the M Sport treatment was less favored, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels with staggered-width summer tires, enhancing its look. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a turbo-six PHEV, and a turbocharged V8, with the high-performance X5 M Competition variant. The xDrive50e M Sport specification came with Brooklyn Grey paint, optional wheels, and every available equipment package, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a styling refresh, aligning it with other BMW models, and introduced the BMW Curved Display for instrumentation and infotainment, modernizing the interior. Despite reduced physical controls, the quality of materials and construction remained a nod to BMW's heritage.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices, starting with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, available with a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 engine increased power to 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired only with the automatic transmission. The top-tier Bronco Raptor featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 delivering 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. All models came with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. The base engine was adequate for most on- and off-road adventures, while the 2.7-liter V6 suited the heavier four-door model. The Raptor's EcoBoost engine provided exhilarating power, though not necessary for most drivers. The Bronco excelled in off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road manners, offering a quieter ride than the Jeep Wrangler. However, its high-riding dimensions required careful handling on curving roads, though it felt more confident than expected.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced new mild-hybrid six-cylinder and V8 engines, with the xDrive50e PHEV offering a substantial upgrade in electric range and power output. It featured a more powerful electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, doubling the maximum AC charging rate to 7.4 kW. The xDrive50e provided 38 miles of electric-only driving, with a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg. It delivered 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was favored for its balance of performance and efficiency, though a Level 2 home charging station was recommended for maximizing electric driving. The adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, and the 21-inch wheels maintained ride quality. The X5 excelled in handling, with quick steering and robust suspension, making it a delight to drive, especially in Sport mode on challenging roads.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape provided ample interior space, with abundant room in both the front and back. The four-door model was recommended for those regularly shuttling more than one passenger, as accessing the rear seats in the two-door required some effort. Up front, there were numerous storage options, including netted door pockets and a rubberized tray for securing phones. The two-door Bronco offered up to 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 52.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, while the four-door model provided 35.6 cubic feet, increasing to 77.6 cubic feet. However, the rear seats didn't fold flat, creating a step-up that hindered sliding longer cargo. The Bronco's design allowed for easy removal of fenders and doors, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e functioned well as a midsize luxury SUV, accommodating five people in two rows. The cargo area offered 33.1 cubic feet, expanding to 71.2 cubic feet with the 40/20/40-split back seat folded. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to reach deep cargo. The test vehicle featured BMW's Sensafin artificial leather, which felt like genuine leather. Standard sport seats and the Climate Comfort Package added 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, four-zone automatic climate control, and heated rear seats. Rear passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof, though a third-row seat was no longer available, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2023 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, featuring G.O.A.T. drive modes that optimized engine and suspension settings for various terrains. Novices could easily conquer challenging terrain, while seasoned off-roaders could manually select features. Numerous camera views aided in tight confines, and the Trail Turn Assist feature allowed for sharp turns. The Bronco also offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Ford’s SYNC 4 as standard. Most models came with an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12-inch display available for improved usability.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Running BMW Operating System 8.5, it included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and over-the-air software updates. The system was intuitive, with numerous apps available, including Zoom calls. The optional Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition, often misinterpreting requests. The available head-up display effectively conveyed data, and the augmented video function for navigation was useful, though reliant on accurate directions from the assistant.

The 2023 Ford Bronco received partial crash test results from the NHTSA, with the four-door model earning four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it a "Good" rating in most crashworthiness tests, except for head restraints and seats, which received an "Acceptable" rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, hill-start assist, and more. The Mid package added enhanced driver assistance features, while the High and Luxe packages offered additional safety technologies. Compared to conventional SUVs, the Bronco's test scores and feature availability were lacking, though the systems functioned without false alarms.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, requiring deliberate activation. It performed well in dense or light traffic but could behave unexpectedly in moderate traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, though occasional errant braking occurred. The X5's driver aids operated subtly, encouraging use. The IIHS gave the X5 high ratings, though lower headlight ratings prevented a safety award. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall crash-test rating.