staff@slashgear.com (Eli Becht)
2024-05-24 08:45:51
www.slashgear.com
In an effort to justify its high price tag, the Raptor prides itself in being the best in its class for off-roading. Ford equipped this iteration with the HOSS 4.0 system that automatically adjusts the vehicle’s suspension and shock rates actively, depending on the terrain. All of this is done to make off-roading as smooth as possible. The big 37-inch tires also make all terrains a breeze to handle, so if you’re looking for the best off-road performance a Bronco offers, you can’t go wrong with the Raptor.
That said, just because the Raptor is the best Ford offers in that category doesn’t mean the Heritage Limited Edition is a dud. It still handles off-roading well, and comes with competitive 35-inch tires, but it downgrades to the HOSS 2.0 system. While not the cutting edge top-of-the-line system, the HOSS 2.0 package still improves handling for your Bronco and provides a very good off-road experience with Bilstein dampers and position-sensitive shocks. It’s largely outclassed compared to the Raptor, but for $20,000 less, that’s to be expected.
Both Broncos are equipped with an EcoBoost V6 engine, but only the Raptor comes with the powerful 3.0L option. The Heritage is built with the 2.7L V6, which is still a fine choice, but hardcore off-roaders will benefit from the extra strength found in the Raptor.