Everglades Or Badlands?

[CitrusBronco]

As an Everglades owner I agree with OP's review/assessment.
A note about using it in Moab, most production vehicles that have been used to date rock crawling have had less HP & Torque than this I4.
No one should have any issues in Moab due to this engines power levels. (I am talking about production vehicles and not the specialized trailer rock buggies.)
The break technology has been used for years and should be fine for any on or off road situation. It does feel more like breaks of old when it comes to pedal travel.

Sounds like the V6 is a must have for the OP. I would have taken a V6 if available, who would not want that extra power if available.
I am happy with my purchase and the performance of the I4.

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[rdg04578]

An Everglades owner, that is NOT my own experience. I am extremely happy.
All Broncos are designed for off-road, though some more than others. I might argue the Badlands, with its disconnecting front swaybar (which I don't miss), is designed for one kind of more serious off-road than the Everglades.
I'm thrilled with the 2.3L, and the SAS Goodyear rubber (best factory rubber yet).

Not saying that I am not totally happy as well--but the OP was discussing some luxury items just not part of the package--and if they are important to him he may not be as happy as you or I are--we know what we have and what we got. True the Badlands is designed for direct completion with the Jeep Rubicon --thus the Rubicon trail where a disconnection sway bar is a must have. In the 13 years I have had my Rubicon there is only a handful of times where I found it beneficial -- since northern maine does not have a "rubicon trail". The 2.3 is fine in most cases off road but in deep mud with Cooper STT Pros on at low RPM the 2.3 does lack the bottom end ummph. Up here the stock goodyears are good for a cuple of trips on the slate and shale logging roads before they are cut to pieces and 2 ply sidewall is just not gonna cut it -- we have a saying up here if you have 2 ply sidewalls you better carry a couple of spares with you.

 

[BricknoseBronco]

Oh yeah the brakes on my 2.7 were more responsive. I had few “close calls” with me 2.3 brakes they’re just very squishy

I sure wish there was some kind of aftermarket fix for these. Could totally see this being an issue in an emergency stop based on my driving experience as well. Wonder if the Ranger crowd came up with any ways to improve it?

 

[BricknoseBronco]

Not saying that I am not totally happy as well--but the OP was discussing some luxury items just not part of the package--and if they are important to him he may not be as happy as you or I are--we know what we have and what we got. True the Badlands is designed for direct completion with the Jeep Rubicon --thus the Rubicon trail where a disconnection sway bar is a must have. In the 13 years I have had my Rubicon there is only a handful of times where I found it beneficial -- since northern maine does not have a "rubicon trail". The 2.3 is fine in most cases off road but in deep mud with Cooper STT Pros on at low RPM the 2.3 does lack the bottom end ummph. Up here the stock goodyears are good for a cuple of trips on the slate and shale logging roads before they are cut to pieces and 2 ply sidewall is just not gonna cut it -- we have a saying up here if you have 2 ply sidewalls you better carry a couple of spares with you.

Only reason I was discussing the lux package items was because that was what was on our order for the Badlands. As i mentioned before, they are great features to have, but also do not believe they are must haves in order to make the purchase. I think in todays world we get spoiled with all this cool tech thats on these Broncos. But some of the best times I've ever had out on trails was riding around in old 90s Broncos, with a 190 HP, and not one piece of tech to be found other than a good radio and power windows. Sometimes all the tech actually takes away from the actual driving experience of off-roading. Call me crazy, but not seeing over the top of every hill with a front camera can actually make for some fun days out on the trail.

And are you mentioning putting 37x12.50 Cooper STT Pros on the Everglades? All I know is those are my favorite tires and will definitely be going on the Bronco. Just whether they will be 35x12.50 or 37x12.50s.

 

[userdude]

I sure did. Heres my thoughts with some comparison to my 2.7 Badlands I had (warning long post):

Exterior: I know there's been a lot of talk about the snorkel. I will honestly say, it looks really good in person. The best snorkel set up I've seen installed on a vehicle. Do I NEED a snorkel, probably not. You never know though. But it really does give the Everglades a super unique look. Also, I hated the graphics on the side in the pictures. But in person they really are not bad looking at all. Helps to make the whole package stand out seeing one on the road. The more squared fenders REALLY make the Everglades look amazing, and again look a lot better even still in person. Overall I think the Everglades may be one of the best overall looking Broncos made to date (for a 4 door). I believe visually the Everglades wins out against the Badlands by a little.

Interior: Nothing too crazy here in comparison to a Badlands with washout floors. The two tone gray and black also really isn't that bad. I'd prefer just the black seats that are in the Badlands, but the gray definitely looks good and works. Who knows, maybe stays cooler in the sun with teh top off. One thing that kind've surprised me was the stereo. It has the standard 7 speaker including subwoofer system. Much like the B&O it leaves plenty to be desired. With that said, I was surprised at how close I felt like the two systems were. I expected the B&O to be way above the standard with the sub, but it honestly didnt seem that way. By no means is the stereo amazing, but definitely not terrible. The slide out tailgate is awesome. Not much more to say on that. Overall, there definitely isnt enough in the interior side of things that should make someone pick one or the other. They felt pretty much the same inside to be honest.

We all know the differences between Lux and mid packages, so no need to hash that out. You either have to have those things or can live without. I dont believe the 360 cameras or adaptive cruise are mandatory, but definitely nice features to have. I've wheeled a lot of old trucks/suvs and none of them had 360 cameras on the trail so not a must have. I still think for the price of any of these (Everglades or Badlands), they all should come standard with those features. But thats another topic all together.

Performance: Now is where it gets interesting. To everyone that said there is enough power to taking off roading, I would agree. Do I think the 2.3 would do well in the dunes somewhere? Im not too sure about that and would definitely have the pedal buried the whole day without feeling like it was doing much. I do think it would have enough power for trails in the midwest, northeast and the south eastern trails. Should be fine at crawling in the trails. I'm not sure how it would do out in Moab with the slickrock out there and some of the harder longer climbs but would love to try it. With that being said, I feel the power of the 2.3 (without a tune) is mediocre and just OK. Definitely lacking low end grunt and seat of the pants punch. Which the 2.7 has both things. Anyone who says the 2.3 is stout or has a ton of power is just crazy. I feel like the 2.3 overall would work, but I dont think it would be too happy with 37s if we wanted to add them down the road. My 2.7 I had didnt seem to mind the 37s when I added them and still was peppy with good amount of punch. Overall, I would say the 2.3 would get the job done, but would leave you wanting more. At least for me.

Now here is by far my biggest complaint. The brakes. Without a doubt was the worst part of the driving experience. I had read multiple people mention this to be an issue, but didnt think it would quite be as bad as it was. The brakes on the 2.3 definitely require a lot of travel and push compared to the 2.7. So much so, it almost felt like a set of worn out brakes or a set of brakes that someone didnt properly bleed all the air out. It honestly surprised me. Did they work? Sure did. But required a lot more input and force than I thought it would. I've worked on cars and trucks my whole life. It just surprised me that a new vehicle had brakes that felt that way. Was a weird experience. I just wonder how they would handle on a super steep hill in the Smoky Mountains. I also really would be worried about putting some 37s with this brake set up. Overall, this was I would say the worst part of the 2.3 experience. 2.7/Badlands wins in this department all day without question.

Overall, without a doubt I feel the Everglades is the best overall value for all the things you get and how good it looks in person. I would be very happy to own it and am sure anyone who does own one loves it. I know if I had never owned a 2.7 Badlands, the decision would be very easy. Buy it, love it and enjoy it! As its one hell of a total package for the price.

Being I have owned a 2.7 Badlands though, its making me question buying it and just waiting for my build. I told the dealer we would let them know in the morning what the decision is. I still have not settled on a final answer. Maybe some sleep will bring some clarity.

Also thank you everyone for your opinions and help! I think its been a fun discussion. With the high cost of everything these days, Im sure more people are considering saving some money on their next Bronco purchase. Of course everyone would love a 2.7 fully loaded lux Badlands. But at almost $70k, this Everglades sure is a great value and catches the eye.

Nice review. The brakes are a thing, not having the e-boost. At least the WT I've driven is a more fan-friendly experience. It's just the $12k premium is an ouch. Totally get it being difficult.

To wit, my 23 I got 21 pricing and having everything but 2.7 and lux on a 2dr BL, paid $51k pre-tax. If I had added the 2.7, it would've been around $53k. That's how wild these prices have gotten. Thank god I had a price lock and they gave it to me.

 

[rdg04578]

Only reason I was discussing the lux package items was because that was what was on our order for the Badlands. As i mentioned before, they are great features to have, but also do not believe they are must haves in order to make the purchase. I think in todays world we get spoiled with all this cool tech thats on these Broncos. But some of the best times I've ever had out on trails was riding around in old 90s Broncos, with a 190 HP, and not one piece of tech to be found other than a good radio and power windows. Sometimes all the tech actually takes away from the actual driving experience of off-roading. Call me crazy, but not seeing over the top of every hill with a front camera can actually make for some fun days out on the trail.

And are you mentioning putting 37x12.50 Cooper STT Pros on the Everglades? All I know is those are my favorite tires and will definitely be going on the Bronco. Just whether they will be 35x12.50 or 37x12.50s.

went with the 315X70X17's which are the 35X12.50X17 old school numbers. Given the traction on the 35's there are times in deep thick mud the 2.3 works a bit--going bigger could be done I'm sure but for me this set up works fine. If you do not like stones and or small cat size hunks of mud thrown up on the vehicle these are not the tires for you--lol see photo this is

about as clean as it gets

 

[BricknoseBronco]

I can appreciate that the Heritage is not for you but calling somebody else ride ugly is poor form in my opinion. I have to allow extra time when I go out because people have to come talk to me about mine. I get overwhelmingly positive comments almost every time I take her out. the only issue I have is people keep asking what year it is.

So are we not allowed to have opinions on what vehicle designs or packages are ugly anymore? If I give a review of vehicle and think its performance sucks, am I not allowed to do that cause its poor form to someone who likes it? Man, people are so damn sensitive today. I find the Heritage ugly, as do others. You obviously do not as you own one. Also as you mentioned others also like it as people come to talk to you about it. I would NEVER own one and think Fords take on it is cheesy, tacky, and overall ugly. And thats cool. Everyone can like what they want or not like what they want. Just like the ugly fender flares on the Raptor. Some love it, some dont. Its ok to have a different opinions on vehicle designs.

Since the dawn of vehicles, people have opinions on the designs of all kinds of vehicles. Some ugly, some ok and some designs amazing. I was not coming after Heritage owners personally saying they are all crazy for liking it or anything. Your money, your choice. Im glad you love your Heritage! Thats all that matters at the end of the day. Enjoy your ride!

 

[userdude]

So are we not allowed to have opinions on what vehicle designs or packages are ugly anymore? If I give a review of vehicle and think its performance sucks, am I not allowed to do that cause its poor form to someone who likes it? Man, people are so damn sensitive today. I find the Heritage ugly, as do others. You obviously do not as you own one. Also as you mentioned others also like it as people come to talk to you about it. I would NEVER own one and think Fords take on it is cheesy, tacky, and overall ugly. And thats cool. Everyone can like what they want or not like what they want. Just like the ugly fender flares on the Raptor. Some love it, some dont. Its ok to have a different opinions on vehicle designs.

Since the dawn of vehicles, people have opinions on the designs of all kinds of vehicles. Some ugly, some ok and some designs amazing. I was not coming after Heritage owners personally saying they are all crazy for liking it or anything. Your money, your choice. Im glad you love your Heritage! Thats all that matters at the end of the day. Enjoy your ride!

I think it can be a little shocking to really love something, get a lot of positive feedback, then have someone casually "diss" it. It's taken me awhile to like the Heritage look (not a big fan), but I'm liking it more than I did. I still think some of the design choices don't fit the body that well. But I found out with portals that not everyone's a fan, no matter how much I may like something. C'est la vie!

 

[BricknoseBronco]

I think it can be a little shocking to really love something, get a lot of positive feedback, then have someone casually "diss" it. It's taken me awhile to like the Heritage look (not a big fan), but I'm liking it more than I did. I still think some of the design choices don't fit the body that well. But I found out with portals that not everyone's a fan, no matter how much I may like something. C'est la vie!

Its not really all that shocking. I mean, that's life. Not everyone has to share the same tastes in vehicles and allowed to say good things and bad things about them. That's the beauty of automotive enthusiast. There is not one perfect vehicle out there that everyone will like. I dont like the Heritage, and you do. Love what you drive regardless of what anyone else says or thinks. Hope you love your portals and your Heritage!

 

[BricknoseBronco]

Yeah same I’m real invested now! This is the closest I’ve ever gotten to understanding the reality TV shows my girlfriend watches

Haha glad you're enjoying the thread! All things considering, I think its been a productive discussion overall and should help some future buyers if they feel like reading through it all with some fresh popcorn.

 

[userdude]

Its not really all that shocking. I mean, that's life. Not everyone has to share the same tastes in vehicles and allowed to say good things and bad things about them. That's the beauty of automotive enthusiast. There is not one perfect vehicle out there that everyone will like. I dont like the Heritage, and you do. Love what you drive regardless of what anyone else says or thinks. Hope you love your portals and your Heritage!

I don't have portals and I don't have a Heritage; I said it's grown a bit on me, but like YOU, I don't really like it for me personally. Just commenting on the "why would someone reply like the other poster" thing. Sometimes we get edgy when things come at us we aren't primed to expect and can take it personally, if briefly hopefully. We all have our moments. You seem like you get it, so no worries.

 

[BricknoseBronco]

Well, the verdict is in.

I chose to wait for the Badlands order.....My wife chose the Everglades....

We are getting the Everglades tomorrow After all, it is her Bronco.

Thank you everyone for the opinions and discussion! We will still keep the Badlands order just incase. Or at least thats still my plan. Who knows how long it will take to be built. One thing is for certain, I will be putting this Everglades and 2.3 to the test here in TN at some point. And if it sucks, Ill be sure to let my wife know (very politely of course). She will be daily driving it, so she will also be putting it to the test. Just in other ways that do not need further discussion.

Next stop, online order for the Ford Performance tuner to hopefully wake that dog up.

 

[CitrusBronco]

Congrats on making a decision and I hope she enjoys it.

My wife also digs the Everglades package over the Badlands and Heritage. Although it is my vehicle and I am the primary driver, its a plus that she thinks its the coolest of the bunch.

 

[userdude]

Well, the verdict is in.

I chose to wait for the Badlands order.....My wife chose the Everglades....

We are getting the Everglades tomorrow After all, it is her Bronco.

Thank you everyone for the opinions and discussion! We will still keep the Badlands order just incase. Or at least thats still my plan. Who knows how long it will take to be built. One thing is for certain, I will be putting this Everglades and 2.3 to the test here in TN at some point. And if it sucks, Ill be sure to let my wife know (very politely of course). She will be daily driving it, so she will also be putting it to the test. Just in other ways that do not need further discussion.

Next stop, online order for the Ford Performance tuner to hopefully wake that dog up.

The performance tune definitely helps with the shift points. Enjoy!

 

[BricknoseBronco]

Congrats on making a decision and I hope she enjoys it.

My wife also digs the Everglades package over the Badlands and Heritage. Although it is my vehicle and I am the primary driver, its a plus that she thinks its the coolest of the bunch.

Yeah, she really likes the overall Everglades package. As do I for that matter. I do feel the Everglades is without a doubt the best bang for the buck. And much easier pill to swallow to spend in the mid 50s vs almost 70. So she may be onto something by making this decision. The price and value is the exact reason I started this thread, and ultimately why we settled on going with it.

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