I’ve been doing a lot of research on which SUV to get, and I’ve narrowed it down to one I want for both daily commuting and off-roading on long trips.
I rented a 2-door Bronco Wildtrak when I was at Joshua Tree and really enjoyed it. The only problems I had were the road noise (which I got used to) and the fact that it was a bit cramped as a 2-door. So, I definitely want a 4-door.
I need something dependable (my other car is an Alfa, so I’m not expecting Toyota-level reliability), practical for high-mileage driving, and capable on most trails. I don’t need anything too extreme, so I think the Raptor and maybe even the Wildtrak are more than I need. I’d also like some comfort features like leather seats, heated steering wheel, and heated seats. Beyond that, I’m not too picky.
Right now, I’m looking at the 4-door Advanced Badlands with the Sasquatch package, but I’d love to hear any advice.
RayCharles said:
Man, Ford really made the trim levels and options super confusing.
This is totally a Ford thing.
I have a Fusion Hybrid SEL with a random set of features. Ford’s option packages seem like they’re made by accountants—it feels like they want to push you to the highest trim to get what you want. It’s the same strategy as BMW and Mercedes. They design the best version and strip features to make cheaper models.
For example, the Outer Banks doesn’t have a V6 option, which is typical of Ford. They seem to want everyone in a Wildtrak or Raptor instead.
RayCharles said:
Man, Ford really made the trim levels and options super confusing.
This is totally a Ford thing.
I have a Fusion Hybrid SEL with a random set of features. Ford’s option packages seem like they’re made by accountants—it feels like they want to push you to the highest trim to get what you want. It’s the same strategy as BMW and Mercedes. They design the best version and strip features to make cheaper models.
For example, the Outer Banks doesn’t have a V6 option, which is typical of Ford. They seem to want everyone in a Wildtrak or Raptor instead.
The Outer Banks used to have the V6 until this past April, right around when the new Ranger was released. So maybe Ford did this to make sure they had enough engines for the Ranger. We’ll have to wait for the 2025 models to know if this change sticks.
RayCharles said:
Man, Ford really made the trim levels and options super confusing.
This is totally a Ford thing.
I have a Fusion Hybrid SEL with a random set of features. Ford’s option packages seem like they’re made by accountants—it feels like they want to push you to the highest trim to get what you want. It’s the same strategy as BMW and Mercedes. They design the best version and strip features to make cheaper models.
For example, the Outer Banks doesn’t have a V6 option, which is typical of Ford. They seem to want everyone in a Wildtrak or Raptor instead.
I have a Fusion Hybrid SEL with a random set of features. Ford’s option packages seem like they’re made by accountants—it feels like they want to push you to the highest trim to get what you want. It’s the same strategy as BMW and Mercedes. They design the best version and strip features to make cheaper models.
For example, the Outer Banks doesn’t have a V6 option, which is typical of Ford. They seem to want everyone in a Wildtrak or Raptor instead.
Well, I love my Wildtrak
It’s definitely the best trim, in my opinion. It looks awesome right out of the dealership and performs well beyond what most people will use it for.
Washington said:
If you’re not doing serious off-roading, the Sasquatch package is overkill.
I disagree. Having front and rear lockers adds value even if you’re not off-roading much, but that’s just me.
You don’t need the Sasquatch package for a rear locker, and some trims have the front locker too. But I get it, having more features is always better for resale value. Though, if you’re buying new, I wouldn’t worry too much about that.
green said: Washington said:
If you’re not doing serious off-roading, the Sasquatch package is overkill.
I disagree. Having front and rear lockers adds value even if you’re not off-roading much, but that’s just me.
You don’t need the Sasquatch package for a rear locker, and some trims have the front locker too. But I get it, having more features is always better for resale value. Though, if you’re buying new, I wouldn’t worry too much about that.
With the Sasquatch package, you get both front and rear lockers, plus a factory lift that’s covered under warranty. It used to be a great value, but the price has gone up, so it’s debatable now.
I don’t buy cars with resale value in mind either, just for long-term use.
Barbara said:
I love my Wildtrak with the Lux package.
Same here! But just know that good gas mileage and off-roading don’t really go together. With all the gear I’ve added, I’m only getting about 15-16 MPG.
The road noise is pretty much a given with the removable top.
I love my Wildtrak for fast off-roading—there’s nothing like flying down a trail. But I do more rock crawling than fast off-roading, so I’m planning to add my own sway-bar disconnect soon. That way, I’ll get the best of both worlds.
willisjones said:
I’ve been doing a lot of research on which SUV to get, and I’ve narrowed it down to one I want for both daily commuting and off-roading on long trips.
I rented a 2-door Bronco Wildtrak when I was at Joshua Tree and really enjoyed it. The only problems I had were the road noise (which I got used to) and the fact that it was a bit cramped as a 2-door. So, I definitely want a 4-door.
I need something dependable (my other car is an Alfa, so I’m not expecting Toyota-level reliability), practical for high-mileage driving, and capable on most trails. I don’t need anything too extreme, so I think the Raptor and maybe even the Wildtrak are more than I need. I’d also like some comfort features like leather seats, heated steering wheel, and heated seats. Beyond that, I’m not too picky.
Right now, I’m looking at the 4-door Advanced Badlands with the Sasquatch package, but I’d love to hear any advice.
I had the same concerns as you, and my non-Sasquatch Badlands has been perfect. It’s a 4-door hardtop with Lux package and leather. It’s a great off-roader but still comfortable with carpeting, a good stereo (the B&O is fine, haters can hate), and adaptive cruise.
It’s also my daily driver, and I have no problems making hour-long work trips, even taking calls at 70 mph.
willisjones said:
I’ve been doing a lot of research on which SUV to get, and I’ve narrowed it down to one I want for both daily commuting and off-roading on long trips.
I rented a 2-door Bronco Wildtrak when I was at Joshua Tree and really enjoyed it. The only problems I had were the road noise (which I got used to) and the fact that it was a bit cramped as a 2-door. So, I definitely want a 4-door.
I need something dependable (my other car is an Alfa, so I’m not expecting Toyota-level reliability), practical for high-mileage driving, and capable on most trails. I don’t need anything too extreme, so I think the Raptor and maybe even the Wildtrak are more than I need. I’d also like some comfort features like leather seats, heated steering wheel, and heated seats. Beyond that, I’m not too picky.
Right now, I’m looking at the 4-door Advanced Badlands with the Sasquatch package, but I’d love to hear any advice.
Thanks for asking this question! I think about this every day. No matter how much research I do or how many test drives I take, I keep changing my mind.
willisjones said:
I’ve been doing a lot of research on which SUV to get, and I’ve narrowed it down to one I want for both daily commuting and off-roading on long trips.
I rented a 2-door Bronco Wildtrak when I was at Joshua Tree and really enjoyed it. The only problems I had were the road noise (which I got used to) and the fact that it was a bit cramped as a 2-door. So, I definitely want a 4-door.
I need something dependable (my other car is an Alfa, so I’m not expecting Toyota-level reliability), practical for high-mileage driving, and capable on most trails. I don’t need anything too extreme, so I think the Raptor and maybe even the Wildtrak are more than I need. I’d also like some comfort features like leather seats, heated steering wheel, and heated seats. Beyond that, I’m not too picky.
Right now, I’m looking at the 4-door Advanced Badlands with the Sasquatch package, but I’d love to hear any advice.
A non-Sasquatch Badlands with the high or lux package will give you everything you need, plus washout floors. You can add sport mode using FORSCAN if that’s a dealbreaker.
