Which off-road SUV is right for your adventures, the 2025 Ford Bronco Outer Banks or Badlands? While both Bronco trim models have plenty to offer, they take you down two completely different paths. Let’s take a closer look!
Key Takeaways
- While both Broncos are trail-ready, the Badlands takes rugged performance to new heights.
- When it comes to pure power, these Bronco trim models offer the same options — including a 330-horsepower turbocharged V6!
- Looking for the best daily driver? The Outer Banks is the most luxurious choice!
- Drive a luxurious 2025 Bronco Outer Banks starting at $47,490*. Or pay slightly more for the extra-rugged 2025 Bronco Badlands, starting at $49,585*!
Off-Road Capabilities
When it comes to off-road adventure, which Bronco trim fits more drivers: Outer Banks or Badlands? Both rugged SUVs can handle themselves on the trail, but the Badlands is the best option for drivers who want to take on especially difficult terrain. So if you spend a lot of time rock-crawling at Twisted Trails or navigating the swampy terrain of Big Cypress, the Badlands has the edge!
Outer Banks Off-Road Performance Features
- Five G.O.A.T. Modes: Normal, ECO, Sport, Slippery, and Sand
- 32-inch all-terrain tires
- Optional Sasquatch Package (including advanced four-wheel drive, electronic-locking front and rear axles, and high-clearance suspension)
Badlands Off-Road Performance Features
- Advanced four-wheel drive with automatic on-demand engagement
- HOSS 2.0 with Bilstein position-sensitive dampers
- Front stabilizer bar disconnect
- Seven G.O.A.T. Modes: Normal, ECO, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl, and Baja
- Two-door or four-door body style
- Rock rails
- Powder-coated steel bumpers
- 33-inch all-terrain tires
- Optional Sasquatch Package (including advanced four-wheel drive, electronic-locking front and rear axles, and high-clearance suspension)
Powertrain Options
Which SUV supplies maximum horsepower? As it turns out, these Bronco trim models share the same turbocharged engine options. Whether you choose the 300-horsepower base engine or the 330-horsepower V6, you can expect plenty of low-end torque to help you navigate tough terrain.
However, for those who like to shift their own gears, there’s only one option. The Badlands comes standard with a seven-speed manual transmission, while the more luxurious Outer Banks is only available with the 10-speed automatic. Then again, the automatic transmission has major appeal for drivers who prefer a smooth, easygoing ride around town.
Outer Banks vs. Badlands Powertrain Specs
- Turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 325 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional turbo 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (330 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- Standard for Badlands: Seven-speed manual transmission
- Standard for Outer Banks, optional for Badlands: 10-speed automatic transmission
- Four-wheel drive
Comfort & Tech Features
Looking for the comfiest daily driver? You’re going to love the Outer Banks upgrades. This Bronco adds to the Big Bend lineup with luxuries like leather-trimmed seats and dual-zone automatic climate control, making your everyday grind all the more enjoyable.
Meanwhile, the Bronco Badlands caters to your trail adventures, inside and out. After a day in the Florida wilderness, marine-grade vinyl seating and washout-capable floors with drains make it easy to clear away sand and debris. Of course, the Badlands has a few comfort features of its own — like roomy, supportive seating and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Outer Banks Highlights
- 18-inch bright machined Black high-gloss wheels
- Leather-trimmed upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Carpeted flooring and floor mats
- Black grille with White BRONCO lettering
- Body-color door handles and fender flares
- LED headlamps, LED signature lighting, and LED tail lamps
- LED fog lights
- Four-door body style
- Mid Package contents (including ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control)
- Ford Co-Pilot360 safety aids (including blind-spot alert, lane-keeping system, and pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking)
Badlands Highlights
- Marine-grade vinyl upholstery
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Front and rear grab handles
- Washout-capable rubberized flooring with drain plugs
- LED headlamps and LED tail lamps
- LED fog lamps
- Carbonized Gray bumper with White BRONCO lettering
MSRP
While these 2025 Ford Bronco trim models are different in many ways, they’re relatively similar when it comes to pricing. The Outer Banks starts at $47,490*, while the Badlands will only set you back a little more, with an MSRP of $49,585*. Either way, though, the final price of your SUV will vary according to options and local fees!
*MSRP as of 11/19/25.
Your New 2025 Ford Bronco
Now that you know which of these handsomely equipped trim models is more your speed, visit us at Alan Jay Ford in Wauchula, FL, to give your chosen off-road SUV a test-drive. (And if you’re not sure, feel free to test-drive both Broncos!)