Everglades Or Badlands?

[TXBronco1313]

Personally, I just feel like you'd have to really pack your rig down and/or do some really tough lines to even see a difference e.g. getting through the obstacle. I haven't yet found a place where my 2.3 can't go without issue, but it's not like I'm doing Slick Rock or Fordyce. Full disclosure, 2dr, maybe that does make a difference but a guy I go out with hasn't had an issue either.

I feel ya I personally have a 2.3 (traded my 2.7 for it) and I barely noticed any difference but I don’t do hard core off roading or anything. From what I understood from OP’s post is that he was looking to go rock climbing so I recommended the bigger engine so they wouldn’t notice underpower down the line and wish they went with the bigger engine. Apparently to some ppl what I said made me the enemy of the state

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[FreddieLee]

I've owned an Everglades and a Wildtrak (currently own the Wildtrak).

I can say that the Everglades is the best value, most capable Bronco off the showroom floor, hands down, bar none. The 2.3L engine is perfectly capable as-is, and nothing short of outstanding with the Ford Performance tune.

My one and only gripe with the 2.3L was not with the engine itself, but the vacuum boosted brakes.

At the end of the day, use-case is the most important thing to consider. Pay more attention to the posts from folks that have owned both. Pay less attention to the posts from the 2-door purists, displacement heads, and spec-sheet warriors.

 

[mpeugeot]

As a 2-door purist, displacement head, and spec-sheet warrior, I prefer the 2.7 for myself, but there is nothing wrong with the 2.3 and in some ways it offers some advantages; but don't listen to me.

The difference between the two is only 400cc's of displacement (24.4 cubic inches) which is not exactly the difference between a 289 small block and a 429 big block.

The 2.3 engine has less parts to break, fewer turbos, more room under the hood, better transmission cooler location, and a better alternator location.

The 2.7 does have a boatload more low end torque because it has two small turbos and does have more overall power potential just because of the displacement edge and greater cylinder count. The 2.7 has additional frame bracing and electronic assisted vacuum brakes that the 2.3 does not have.

The gearing of the Bronco is more than adequate to take advantage of either motor, and if the 2.3 doesn't have enough bottom end torque, get a set of portals.

As a stock daily driver, I prefer the 2.7 in the Bronco, but I wouldn't avoid a 2.3 at the right price, and for some people the 2.3 is the best choice.

 

[Twister22]

No arguments there, of course the Everglades with the stupid snorkel and decal is no beauty queen either (at least the sticker can be quickly removed). I was simply saying hands down the HE is best value Sas Bronco (non-sas BL), looks aside. And you aren't limited to the 4 banger.

I will never get past that snorkel either!!

 

[CitrusBronco]

Did OP ever get back from his test drive?
How did it go, what did you decide?

 

[TXBronco1313]

I've owned an Everglades and a Wildtrak (currently own the Wildtrak).

I can say that the Everglades is the best value, most capable Bronco off the showroom floor, hands down, bar none. The 2.3L engine is perfectly capable as-is, and nothing short of outstanding with the Ford Performance tune.

My one and only gripe with the 2.3L was not with the engine itself, but the vacuum boosted brakes.

At the end of the day, use-case is the most important thing to consider. Pay more attention to the posts from folks that have owned both. Pay less attention to the posts from the 2-door purists, displacement heads, and spec-sheet warriors.

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

 

[Red Squatch]

Sure, I could build one. But 1) Heritage edition is ugly and looks tacky to me 2)color options suck 3) interior is ugly. I feel like Ford dropped the ball on that model. Either way, appreciate the recommendation. Just know the heritage edition is not for us.

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.

 

[BricknoseBronco]

Did OP ever get back from his test drive?
How did it go, what did you decide?

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.

 

[TheWaterBronco]

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.

Let us all know what you decide, we’re invested now!

 

[TXBronco1313]

Let us all know what you decide, we’re invested now!

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

 

[Rivers90]

I've owned an Everglades and a Wildtrak (currently own the Wildtrak).

I can say that the Everglades is the best value, most capable Bronco off the showroom floor, hands down, bar none. The 2.3L engine is perfectly capable as-is, and nothing short of outstanding with the Ford Performance tune.

My one and only gripe with the 2.3L was not with the engine itself, but the vacuum boosted brakes.

At the end of the day, use-case is the most important thing to consider. Pay more attention to the posts from folks that have owned both. Pay less attention to the posts from the 2-door purists, displacement heads, and spec-sheet warriors.

I vote for the everglades.

 

[KT_bronco]

Is voting closed?? is it too late to give my 2 cents?

Everglades, just love me some square fenders.

 

[rdg04578]

no one ever said "I wish I had a smaller motor with less power" that being said if there is any doubt about the power of the 2.3 you will always think I wish I got.................. question has been answered.

 

[Kevin Scarbel]

The everglades is designed with off road in mind first--so if your not spending the majority of your time on dirt or offroad with it your not going to be happy. Off road the lux package, front camera is all bling and not too useful. It's nice going through tall grass and brush and not having all kinds of alarms going of--pain in the ass to back up in tall brush and grass because the sensors are in panic mode. the snorkel is loud with the passenger window down. The 2.3 feels a little winded in deep mud and highway speeds as compared to the 2.7. Ditch the crappy stock good years for tire with aggressive tread and it is more noticeable when you need instant wheel spin. So after reading through this --you should not even consider the everglades--because you will be disappointed. For me the everglades was the only choice since I do not rock crawl and about 80% of my miles involves no pavement

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).

 

[Kevin Scarbel]

no one ever said "I wish I had a smaller motor with less power" that being said if there is any doubt about the power of the 2.3 you will always think I wish I got.................. question has been answered.

I have said "I wish I had a smaller motor with less power", because American vehicles are frequently overpowered. Those who have lived abroad know what I mean.
The 2.3L will send a Bronco briskly down the road and up the trail, but with some degree of fuel economy. The 2.7L is purely excessive power with reduced fuel economy. When gasoline rises back to $4 a gallon, and it will, this discussion will be remembered.

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