2023 Ford Bronco Everglades: Full Review & Off-Road Test

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2023 Ford Bronco Everglades: Full Review & Off-Road Test

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades. This isn't your everyday Bronco; it's been specially engineered for serious off-road adventures, particularly those that involve a bit of mud and water. So, buckle up as we explore everything this rugged beast has to offer, from its unique features to its performance on the trails. We’ll cover the design elements that set it apart, the interior comforts and tech, and most importantly, how it handles in challenging conditions.

What Makes the Everglades Special?

Okay, so what exactly makes the Everglades trim so special? The most obvious difference is the factory-installed snorkel. Ford calls it an “air induction snorkel,” and it's designed to provide cleaner air to the engine when you're tackling dusty trails or wading through water. This snorkel extends the Bronco Everglades' water-fording capability to an impressive 36.4 inches. That's serious business for anyone who enjoys playing in the mud! Beyond the snorkel, the Everglades also comes standard with a heavy-duty modular front bumper with a WARN winch capable of pulling up to 10,000 pounds. This winch is incredibly useful if you get stuck, or if you need to help out a fellow off-roader. To accommodate the extra equipment and the more demanding terrain it's designed for, the Everglades also features a unique suspension setup with increased ground clearance. This allows it to clear obstacles that might stop other SUVs in their tracks. The unique graphics and badging also set the Everglades apart visually, making it clear that this is not your average Bronco. All these features combine to make the Everglades a formidable off-road machine, ready to tackle some of the toughest trails you can find.

Design and Exterior Features

The design of the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades is all about functionality and rugged appeal. The snorkel, as we mentioned, is the most distinctive feature. It’s not just a bolt-on accessory; it's integrated seamlessly into the Bronco's design. The heavy-duty front bumper isn't just for looks either. It provides excellent protection for the front of the vehicle and houses the WARN winch. The standard rock rails protect the sides of the Bronco from damage when navigating rocky terrain. These are essential for serious off-roading. The Everglades also features squared wheel arches, which provide extra clearance for the large 35-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires. These tires offer excellent grip on loose surfaces, further enhancing the Bronco's off-road capability. The unique Everglades graphics on the front quarter panels and the hood add to its distinctive appearance, making it stand out from other Bronco models. The overall design is a perfect blend of form and function, creating a vehicle that looks as capable as it is. Ford really nailed the aesthetic, ensuring that the Everglades looks ready for anything you throw at it.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the Bronco Everglades, you'll find a cabin that blends rugged durability with modern technology. The interior is designed to be both functional and comfortable, with easy-to-clean surfaces and durable materials. The marine-grade vinyl seats are water-resistant, making them perfect for those muddy adventures. The rubberized flooring with drain plugs allows you to easily wash out the interior after a day on the trails. No more worrying about getting the carpets dirty! The Everglades comes standard with Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system, which features a 12-inch touchscreen display. This system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, so you can easily connect your smartphone. The navigation system is also top-notch, providing detailed maps and off-road trail information. A rearview camera with trail view is standard, making it easier to navigate tight spots and avoid obstacles. While the interior is certainly functional, it's also surprisingly comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers and gear. The combination of technology and durable materials makes the Bronco Everglades a great place to spend time, whether you're on the highway or tackling a challenging trail. Ford has done a great job of creating an interior that can withstand the elements while still providing the features and comfort that modern drivers expect.

Performance and Off-Road Capabilities

When it comes to performance, the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades is built to impress. It's powered by Ford's 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which produces 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides plenty of power for both on-road driving and off-road adventures. The Everglades comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth and responsive shifting. The advanced 4x4 system with automatic on-demand engagement ensures that you have traction when you need it. The Bronco's independent front suspension and solid rear axle provide excellent articulation and stability on uneven terrain. The electronic locking front and rear differentials allow you to lock the wheels together for maximum traction in challenging situations. The Everglades also features Ford's Trail Control system, which acts like cruise control for off-roading, allowing you to focus on steering while the vehicle manages the throttle and brakes. The combination of these features makes the Bronco Everglades a true off-road champion, capable of tackling some of the toughest trails you can find. Whether you're rock crawling, mudding, or simply exploring the great outdoors, the Everglades is up to the task. Ford has engineered this vehicle to be a true off-road beast, and it shows in its performance.

On-Road Driving Experience

While the Bronco Everglades is primarily designed for off-road adventures, it's also important to consider its on-road driving experience. Surprisingly, the Everglades is quite comfortable and refined on the pavement. The independent front suspension provides a smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivers plenty of power for merging onto the highway and passing other vehicles. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, providing good fuel economy. Of course, the Everglades is still a body-on-frame SUV with large off-road tires, so it's not going to handle like a sports car. There is some body roll in corners, and the tires can be a bit noisy at highway speeds. However, overall, the Bronco Everglades provides a surprisingly pleasant on-road driving experience. It's certainly not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, but it's comfortable enough for daily driving and long road trips. Ford has done a good job of balancing off-road capability with on-road comfort, making the Everglades a versatile vehicle that can handle both the daily commute and weekend adventures.

Pros and Cons of the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades

Let's break down the pros and cons of the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades to give you a clear picture:

Pros:

  • Unmatched Off-Road Capability: The snorkel, winch, and other off-road features make it incredibly capable. Seriously, it can handle almost anything..
  • Unique and Rugged Design: The Everglades stands out from other Broncos with its distinctive styling.
  • Comfortable Interior: The marine-grade vinyl seats and rubberized flooring are both durable and comfortable.
  • Advanced Technology: The SYNC 4 infotainment system and other tech features are user-friendly and convenient.

Cons:

  • Fuel Economy: Not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market.
  • Price: The Everglades is one of the more expensive Bronco trims.
  • Availability: Limited production may make it difficult to find one.
  • On-Road Noise: The off-road tires can be a bit noisy at highway speeds.

Is the Everglades Right for You?

So, is the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades the right vehicle for you? If you're a serious off-roader who loves to explore challenging terrain, then the answer is likely yes. The Everglades is specifically designed for those who want a Bronco that's ready for anything, right out of the box. The snorkel, winch, and other off-road features make it incredibly capable, and the unique design sets it apart from other Broncos. However, if you're primarily looking for a comfortable and fuel-efficient daily driver, there may be better options. The Everglades is not the most practical choice for commuting or running errands around town. It's also one of the more expensive Bronco trims, so you'll need to be prepared to pay a premium for its capabilities. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you value off-road performance above all else, then the Bronco Everglades is definitely worth considering. But if you're looking for a more versatile and affordable SUV, you may want to explore other options.

Final Verdict

The 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades is a specialized off-road machine that's built for adventure. Its unique features, such as the snorkel and winch, make it incredibly capable in challenging conditions. While it may not be the most practical choice for everyday driving, it's a great option for those who want a Bronco that's ready for anything. If you're a serious off-roader who's looking for a vehicle that can handle the toughest trails, then the Everglades is definitely worth a look. Ford has created a truly impressive off-road vehicle that's sure to turn heads wherever it goes. Just be prepared to pay a premium for its capabilities and limited availability. Overall, the Bronco Everglades is a fantastic addition to the Bronco lineup and a testament to Ford's commitment to building capable and exciting off-road vehicles.