Which Ford Bronco Offers a Removable Top?

Standard features tailored for off-roading aren’t the only reasons why vehicles like the Ford Bronco are highly sought after. Adventure enthusiasts also enjoy the immersive experience of driving with open air as they conquer challenging trails. This is why the Jeep Wrangler has been offering a removable top and doors for many years. However, the Ford Bronco is not to be outdone, as it also provides the option of a removable hard or soft roof. But which one should you choose to get the best deal?

All about the new Ford Bronco

Image: Ford Bronco | Getty Images

The Ford Bronco, available in both two-door and four-door configurations, offers plenty of room for customization. The two-door model, with its shorter wheelbase, allows for easier maneuverability on trails. On the other hand, the four-door model provides a spacious interior, making it more suitable for families.

Regardless of the number of doors, both versions come equipped with a standard 2.3-liter 300-hp turbo-four engine. This engine is paired with a seven-speed manual transmission and offers part-time 4WD. Full-time 4WD is available as an optional upgrade. If you’re looking for more power, you can opt for the twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 engine, which delivers 330 hp and is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission.

The Ford Bronco boasts excellent traction with its 30-inch tires fitted on 16-inch wheels. It also features the G.O.A.T drive mode system, providing various options for different terrains such as slippery and sandy surfaces. Higher trim levels even offer additional drive modes specifically designed for rock crawling and muddy terrains.

For true off-roading enthusiasts, the Sasquatch package is worth considering. This package includes beefy 35-inch tires, locking differentials on both ends, and Bilstein shocks. Some higher-priced trims, like the Bronco Wildtrak, come standard with this equipment.

Starting from the Black Diamond trim, the Ford Bronco comes with rubberized floor mats that have drain plugs, making it easier to clean and maintain. The Everglades model includes a snorkel and a standard hard-top. It’s worth mentioning that both the Everglades and Raptor trims are exclusively available in the four-door configuration.

Which Ford Bronco features a removable top?

According to Forbes, every two-door Ford Bronco is equipped with a removable hard-top roof. On the other hand, the four-door models come standard with a retractable soft-top roof that can also be removed.

If you prefer a hard-top for your four-door Bronco, you have the option to add it for an additional $695. The hard-top can be either made of plastic or painted metal. Unfortunately, the retractable soft-top is not available for the two-door Broncos.

The hard roof is divided into three panels that cover the vehicle’s cabin, rear row, and cabin portions. This design allows rear passengers to enjoy an open-air ride while the cabin remains enclosed, or vice versa.

Both models come with removable doors. Thanks to the placement of the rearview cameras on the cowl, you don’t have to worry about compromising safety and visibility when driving with the doors off. Ford has also made the door removal process as simple as possible, and all four panels can be neatly stored in the Bronco’s trunk.

However, it’s worth noting that each door panel and the cabin portion panel of the plastic roof can be quite heavy. According to The Drive, each door panel weighs 48 pounds, while the cabin portion’s panel of the plastic roof, along with the attached rear glass, weighs 65 pounds.

In terms of pricing, choosing the two-door Ford Bronco is the more affordable way to get a vehicle with a removable hard-top, as it has an MSRP of $30,800. With the hard-top premium added, the four-door Bronco Base costs $35,345.

Is the Ford Bronco a reliable choice?

While the removable top is undoubtedly an attractive feature, it’s essential to consider the overall reliability of the Ford Bronco. Recently, there have been reports of engine failure in low-mileage 2.7-liter V6 engines, primarily due to dropped valves. Ford is aware of this issue and has committed to modifying the engine to address the problem.

Another challenge faced by the Ford Bronco is production delays for the metal hard-top roof, which has been notoriously difficult to obtain. Although the plastic hard-top is more readily available, some units have been prone to water leakage. Ford promptly issued a recall to address this problem. Additionally, there have been complaints regarding poor finishing and peeling headliners. Ford has taken action by announcing that all roofs on Broncos that have yet to be built will be replaced. However, it’s important to note that these actions may result in delays for those who have reserved a Bronco.

In conclusion, the Ford Bronco offers the choice of a removable top, providing an exhilarating open-air experience during your off-road adventures. However, it’s crucial to consider the reported issues and delays associated with certain features to make an informed decision.

To learn more about the Ford Bronco and explore your options, visit Ratingperson.