GMC Yukon vs Ford Bronco

The 2022 GMC Yukon captivated consumers with its bold use of chrome, creating a premium appearance even at the base SLE trim level. As one ascended the trim ladder, particularly reaching the Denali, chrome became a defining feature. The front of the Denali showcased a vast, multi-dimensional grille that commanded attention, flanked by GMC's signature C-shaped headlights. The optional Ultimate package on the Denali added 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels, which stood out against the deep Redwood Metallic paint, emphasizing the luxury SUV's grandeur.

On the other hand, the 2023 Ford Bronco was admired for its distinct retro-cool styling combined with modern engineering. All nine trims, from the base model with steel wheels to the top-tier Raptor with its massive fender flares and elevated height, boasted unmistakable features such as a wide horizontal grille and large round headlights. The new Heritage trim further enhanced its appeal with a nostalgic touch, including a white grille, roof, and unique plaid seat upholstery.

Inside the Yukon, the cabin was spacious and crafted with premium materials. The Denali offered four exclusive interior designs, with the Teak/Light Shale combo being particularly impressive. Comfort was a given in all three rows, even for taller passengers. The AT4 version presented a Jet Black interior with distinctive Brandy accents, while both the AT4 and Denali came with heated and cooled front seats.

Conversely, the Bronco's interior emphasized durability over luxury, reflecting its rugged exterior. It featured sealed switches for easy cleaning after off-road adventures and drain plugs in the floor. The simple, utilitarian design included mesh seat back storage and replaceable handholds. Although interior materials were rugged, they earned praise for their toughness and practicality.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engine choices, giving consumers a variety of performance options. The base 5.3-liter V8 delivered 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, while the Denali's 6.2-liter V8 upped the ante to 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking better fuel economy, the new 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine, producing 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, was a great option. This engine's nickname, "Baby Duramax," highlighted its exceptional torque and efficiency.

All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with a choice of rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. However, the off-road-focused AT4 trim only came with four-wheel drive, featuring a unique front skid plate and a nearly 32-degree approach angle. The Yukon's towing capacity maxed out at 8,400 pounds with the right configuration, while the air ride adaptive suspension provided a smoother ride and improved handling over various terrains.

The 2023 Ford Bronco also boasted three engine options. The base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine produced 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, while the optional twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 increased output to 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. For those craving power, the Bronco Raptor's 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 offered 418 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque. All engines came with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case.

The Bronco excelled off-road, with its G.O.A.T. drive modes automatically optimizing settings for different terrains. It was more controlled and quieter on the highway than its direct competitor, the Jeep Wrangler, although it did exhibit some bounce due to its high-riding stance and big all-terrain tires. Maneuvering the four-door model was easier than expected, thanks to several onboard cameras.

The 2022 GMC Yukon impressed with its improved third-row space. The redesign brought an increase in legroom from 24.8 inches to 34.9 inches, addressing previous complaints about cramped conditions. Cargo space behind the third row grew to 25.5 cubic feet from 15.3 cubic feet, with a nearly five-inch wheelbase stretch playing a key role. The power-folding second and third rows enhanced convenience and versatility, while the power-sliding center console revealed additional hidden storage.

In the 2023 Ford Bronco, the boxy design translated into a spacious interior, but the configuration depended on the model. The two-door Bronco had 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 52.3 cubic feet when folded. The four-door model offered 35.6 cubic feet, expanding to 77.6 cubic feet with the seats down. However, the rear seats didn't fold flat, creating a step-up that deterred easy loading of long items and in-car sleeping.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came well-equipped with technology. A 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center, a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, and a 15-inch head-up display provided drivers with critical data and controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, wireless phone charging, and a WiFi hotspot were also standard or available, depending on the trim. However, the Bose 14-speaker audio system didn’t quite meet the high expectations usually associated with the brand.

The 2023 Ford Bronco integrated technology to boost its off-road prowess. The G.O.A.T. drive modes automated complex settings for various terrains, while multiple camera views assisted in tight off-road situations. The Trail Turn Assist feature helped navigate sharp turns by braking the inside rear wheel. For everyday functionality, the Bronco included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and Ford's SYNC 4 system. Despite an eight-inch touchscreen being standard, the optional 12-inch display was recommended for better usability.

The 2022 GMC Yukon included the GMC Pro Safety suite, featuring automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. The Pro Safety Plus added lane-change alert, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. An adjustable rear camera mirror and Safety Alert Seat were also available. In NHTSA tests, the Yukon received four out of five stars overall, excelling in side crash protection but scoring lower for rollover resistance. The IIHS had not tested the latest Yukon at the time.

The 2023 Ford Bronco earned mixed results in crash tests. NHTSA awarded it four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover, while IIHS rated it "Good" in most categories but "Acceptable" for head restraints and seats. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, hill-start assist, and hill-descent control. The Mid package added blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams, enhancing the Bronco's safety credentials.