Upgrade from Early-2021 to 2025 Bronco: First Impressions

[redone17]

I honestly hate the electric brake booster. Wife's F-150 has one and it's so sensitive I feel like I am constantly being thrown into the windshield.

Interesting. I never felt like I could stop fast enough with the vacuum. I carried a decent amount of weight and even upgrading to the PowerStop kit didn’t make it that much better.

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[mr_suaz]

Auto Hi-Beams is standard on my '21 BL.

 

[Oilbrnr]

Thanks for the detailed write up.

(nervous Land Cruiser guy here waiting on his '25 being built here in a couple weeks)

 

[Kevin Scarbel]

Not sure if this is the correct section of the forum to post this - but, it seemed right…

I wanted to take a moment to jot down my first impressions of upgrading from an early 2021 Black Diamond with the Manual Transmission and Standard Package to a 2025 Big Bend with Black Diamond also with the 7MT.

I figure there are a lot of people considering a new vehicle or trade up now that the 2026 order guide has been released - so, I hope this information and some of my opinions are helpful to some of you.

First, I’ll start by saying that I had zero intention or means to upgrade so soon. Unfortunately, my 2021 was deemed a total loss after an unfortunate and pretty traumatic boating incident - but, we’ll save that story for another day. I’ll just say - fuck electric e-brakes.

Speaking of electric e-brakes - when the hell did they decide to flip the handle/pull to engage down instead of up? That’s really screwing with me.

Here are a list of features that have changed since 2021 that really stood out to me. Some are widely discussed - some not so much. I’m not 100% certain when some of these upgrades became available - but, I figured I’d just include everything that’s putting a smile on my face that I didn’t know or expect as well as the details that essentially made me seek out a 2025 vs a used 2021-2024.

First and foremost the MAIN reason I scoured the entire Ford inventory across the continental 48 was because if I was going to spend a few extra bucks after insurance I wanted a 7MT Black Diamond with MID Package. That is an option that wasn’t available until 2025. That in of itself is worth the upgrade alone. I don’t need to go into detail on what you gain with the MID package - but, I really appreciate the BLIS, rear facing sensors, heated seats and dual HVAC. Having the 112v plug in the rear will come in handy too.

I have to say I was pretty bummed they dropped Iconic Silver at first. My original order was for Shadow Black and after ending up in the silver I really fell for it. I don’t like flashy colored vehicles and I haven’t really been a fan of the flat color paints that are all the rage…but, I’m 100% on-board with Marsh Gray. Once I saw it in person I knew it was what I wanted. I found an incredibly rare specimen. This combination didn’t exist anywhere in the US on any lot - except Valenti Ford in Mystic, CT. Thankful for them. They made me an incredible offer with an outstanding wrap warranty.

The other major reason I gravitated towards the 2025 is the new gauge cluster. It really is a nice upgrade. Especially for the 7MT. There are still some flaws (I really wish there were actual temp readouts on the gauges and why aren’t there numbers around the speedometer???) - overall it’s much more pleasant to look at and provides a lot more information (oil temp!). Navigation is integrated and interactive, there’s a decent amount of customization and a slew of additional features. A small complaint is that Sport mode is now orange themed instead of red - but, I can’t stand orange in general and red was more pleasant to my eyes.

Also, not exactly cluster related - but, for some reason they changed the order of GOAT modes and Sport is now 3rd instead of first. I guess putting slippery first is a safety concern? I gotta see if I can remove ECO so that it’s only two clicks over.

I know Sport mode always turned on 4A if equipped - but, I don’t get that. I need to read more into why and if there is any downside to immediately switching it to 2H. Why utilize 4A in dry conditions? Seems like wasteful wear to the components.

The new blinker noise is very pleasant to me. Small but, significant upgrade there IMO.

I don’t know when this feature came into play and haven’t seen it mentioned before but the Auto High Beams fading on and off instead of abrupt is incredible. That has to be editable in Forscan, no? So pleasant and modern feeling.

I must say that there is a noticeable difference in (or lack there of) cabin noise (and in turn the audio system sounds incredible - more on that later). I don’t know if it’s a combination of the SoundScreen windshield and better seals and locks on roof panels or what. Speaking of - did the locks change? These have an audible click when closed. I got the MIC for my 2021 from someone in February of 2023 - so it was a late 2022 build. I believe the stamp said October 2022. It certainly didn’t click or feel as secure/tight.

The fact that Manual transmission didn’t gain the rear vents in the console was a bummer. I didn’t realize that until I picked up. Not the end of the world. The HVAC system overall seems to have had some improvements made outside of that. I don’t remember the massive insulated vent tubes pointing towards the feet of driver and passenger from behind the dash. Between that and the heated seats, no complaints here. Rarely have a rear passenger anyhow.

I’m psyched to gain little things that were added as early as 2022 like roll bar mounts and rear sway bar mounts that I always felt I missed out on by being an early adopter. Those will both come in handy. I already have sway parts headed my way. I carry a log of cargo. I’m looking forward to feeling a bit more planted.

Other creature comforts - I don’t know what they did to make such a difference or when this changed - but the doors and tailgate latches and how they close is so much more premium. They almost have soft close drawer feel. The doors don’t feel like hollow tin cans. What changed exactly???

It’s hard for me to compare the new 2.3L since I spent the last 2 years with the Ford Tune - but out of the gate the motor and trans just seem to be talking to each other better. Does that make any sense? MPG gains seem negligible. Obviously psyched about the injection portion - but, I need to nerd out on the engine a bit more. There’s a TON of extra space in the bay. Incredible amounts on both sides. You can access the oil filter from above. The catalytic converter has full access for an upgraded downpipe…

The electric brake system is light years better than the vacuum system. Super responsive and I just feel safer knowing they’re so sensitive.

The inverted threads on the antenna threw me off. I really liked running the CravenSpeed Untenna, but that’s no longer possible. I had to get their Stubby Jr.

Onto the stereo system - and let me start by saying I’m a huge music nerd, but I’m not a professional audiophile or anything. The original stereo in the 2021 as we all know was atrocious. There are threads upon threads about upgrades and changes people have made. I was pretty happy where I ended up for $1000 or so. That being said - I would love to learn more about the current 7 speaker system. Has it been the same components since 2023 when they introduced it? Or have there been improvements? All I’ve done is drop in the Infinity REF along with 300hz bass blockers in the dash and I’m honestly extremely happy with the soundscape at the moment. I have four 6.5” Memphis for the kickers and rear pods and I don’t even know if it will be worth it. Zero need for the Kicker Key 200.4 at the moment. Would that change with the 6.5s installed? Who knows? Bass is full and physical. No rattles. Highs and mids are clear and pleasant. I listen to a large range of music and it’s all sounded pretty damn good. Especially R&B & New Wave. I haven’t thumped any deep dub yet - but, that’s my next test. I guess the bit of metal and punk I’ve tested could use a bit of EQ adjustment. I’m really curious of 2025 system is different than the previous years just like the B&O system received upgrades. My wife’s 2020 Ranger has B&O and I gotta say the 7 speaker system in my 2025 Bronco isn’t THAT far off.

That’s all for now. I’m sure I will come across more. I’m really enjoying the new truck. I haven’t taken it off-road at all yet or done much of anything fun out it. But it’s been a pleasure to drive. I don’t wish to relive the experience that led me to this - but, it’s literally the first insurance claim I’ve had in 30 years of driving. Utica National Insurance was supportive and even though it was a bit of a rollercoaster getting to a final agreement - I’m happy with the final numbers. I only pay a small amount for extra $10k aftermarket coverage and they gave me every penny I spent without depreciation on everything I couldn’t unbolt or remove once it was deemed a total loss.

So, I certainly hope your decision into a 2025 or 2026 wasn’t forced like mine and that these tidbits are helpful in your choice to upgrade or not.

It’s going through a major makeover during the next few weeks.. It’s nice to re-install some parts and modifications a second time taking what I learned the first time around. I’m making tasteful decisions and breaking less clips. Haha.

Pics to come.

Cheers,
Chris

Funny that you mention the blinker noise. I like the sound of my 2024s over that of my 2025. The 2025 has a cheaper sound to my ears.

 

[redone17]

Auto Hi-Beams is standard on my '21 BL.

Not the fade on/off.

 

[Bronco Toad]

My 22 Badlands Auto headlights fade in/out

 

[redone17]

My 22 Badlands Auto headlights fade in/out

Huh…interesting. I wonder what packages offered that or when they updated that. I’ve never seen anyone mention it before. How is that not something discussed in the Forscan threads? It must be adjustable…it’s certainly not hardware related.

It was very much flash on/off on my 2021.

 

[thesocalexplorer]

Huh…interesting. I wonder what packages offered that or when they updated that. I’ve never seen anyone mention it before. How is that not something discussed in the Forscan threads? It must be adjustable…it’s certainly not hardware related.

It was very much flash on/off on my 2021.

My '22 signature lights have a straight on/off, no fading whatsoever.

 

[tock13]

Man, sorry to hear about your Bronco but glad all are well!!

I agree with your take on 2025 Bronco. I rented a '25 Big Bend that we took from Salt lake city down to St George then up through the 5 national parks, visited national monuments, state parks, misc dirt roads then over to Moab for OffRoadeo. I was absolutely shocked by how smooth and quiet it was, plenty of power even with the crazy Utah interstate speedlimits. I did feel the wind noise is a lot louder than mine but then the tire noise is non existant on the rental so maybe the tire noise is masking the wind on mine.

Crazy good MPGs. I filled it up when we got to St George then again when we left Bryce, though I bet I could have made it way farther before filling up...24.7 MPG average for the entire trip, it was crazy. I did not take it easy in that thing either, 80 mph freeway and a ton of pulling pretty big hills all at high altitudes. Filled it up and it always said I had 500+ miles to empty, cripes. We had the Bronco 7 days and drove a crap load of miles and filled it twice and then the mandatory fill from 3/4 tank for the rental return. It was like a damn Prius, my Big Bend is averaging 20.8 mpg hand calculated and I feel like I am always getting gas. I drive mine like Mr. Rogers on valium but this rental Bronco I drove without worrying about MPG and it was a hell of a lot of fun to finally find out what a Bronco can do.

-Getting in at the airport I first noticed the guage cluster difference...thought I needed that thing bad in my '24 Bronco but by the end of the trip it wasn't that big a deal and I feel like it my atari looking cluster tells me more with the actual values displayed in the Guages screen...plus its such a weird and poorly designed cluster that I have grown to love its quirkyness.

-I agree on the Brakes, good Lord....I can't count how many times I about put us through the window by applying the brakes like I do in my Bronco. These are night and day different with the electronic booster. barely pres the pedal and they are grabbing, It is kind of hard to deal with after driving with the vacuum brakes! There is absolutely no guessing if you are gonna stop when you need to stop. Nice upgrade for sure.

-Cloth seats, uuugh....I want them in my Bronco BAD. Could I get away with renting another Bronco and swapping my MGV seats for Thriftys cloth seats...would they notice???? Damn, they are so comfortable and they breathe. No back sweat even after 12 hours at a time in the seat. Even my partner who has a '22 Black Diamond was commenting on how bad she wanted cloth now. Bummer I couldn't get it in my Big Bend.

A stock Big Bend is a blast to drive, we took the back way into the Arches on Salt Valley road and it was awesome, threw it in 4H and the truck did great through the deep sand and the rocky sections and the suspension handled the washboard sections fine with the stock tires.

The rental was Marsh Gray and I love that color, I would definitely consider that one.

super fun time in that thing.

 

[redone17]

I hate to ask. Accidentally dunk it at the ramp?

Oh, I forgot to mention. I have no idea where it stands at the moment - but was pretty heated early on because of course insurance wants to avoid as much responsibility as possible. I just had PowerStop Brake Kit installed a few hundred miles prior (also reimbursed for, didn’t expect that!) and they needed service reports and details from the dealer on install to make sure THEY didn’t screw something up to cause the e-brake failure. They found a few codes before the module was fried - one being a front disc slip. Speculation is that the soft gravel/dirt ramp caused some sort of rolling motion that disengaged the brakes as if my foot was on the gas? Seems questionable. Then I had to sign a release document that allowed them to dig into the “black box” so they could investigate further and point blame on Ford. But, it’s out of my hands now. As mentioned, thankful for a solid privately owned insurance company. That’s for sure.

 

[Andrew Bynum]

I think many of the differences you are noticing come from the simple fact that your first Bronco was stripped down and now you’re forced into a Mid Package.

 

[redone17]

I think many of the differences you are noticing come from the simple fact that your first Bronco was stripped down and now you’re forced into a Mid Package.

That’s not true at all. I specifically mentioned the few MID package perks that I appreciate and also stated that’s why I sought out a 2025 because prior to then you couldn’t get a Black Diamond with MID. Many of my points have nothing to do with the 222A. This is what you get with MID:

• • 2-Door Intelligent Access with Lock/Unlock
• • Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (DEATC) – Includes Air Conditioning
• • Front Row Heated Seats
• • Illuminated Sliding Visor Vanity Mirrors (Driver and Front Passenger)
• • Power Outlet - Back side of Center Floor Console
• • Remote Start System (Available only with Automatic Transmission)
• • Rear Parking Sensors
• • Ford Co-Pilot360®
• • Connected Navigation with 1-Year Subscription included, Pinch-to-Zoom Capability, Live Traffic, Predictive Destinations and Route Guidance, and One Box Search

 

[GPPBronco]

Thanks for the detailed write up.

(nervous Land Cruiser guy here waiting on his '25 being built here in a couple weeks)

I’d be nervous too. Unless the off road capability out of the box is your main consideration, you’re going to miss almost everything else about your Land Cruiser.

 

[timhood]

Not the fade on/off.

That fade up/down definitely appeared on the ‘22s. When I first saw it in action, I was impressed with that attention to detail that engineers had. It’s so good that you might not realize it is switching between low and high beam if you aren’t paying attention to it.

 

[redone17]

That fade up/down definitely appeared on the ‘22s. When I first saw it in action, I was impressed with that attention to detail that engineers had. It’s so good that you might not realize it is switching between low and high beam if you aren’t paying attention to it.

I didn’t even know it was a thing! I thought I screwed something up after turning on Bambi mode. I was wondering why the auto-high beams weren’t engaging even though the blue marker was on the cluster.

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