Question on what trim to start with

[junkjon0814]

I am looking to buy a bronco to start building on. I am considering both used and new but was wondering is there a good trim level to start with for a build? I like the idea of a Badlands with the Sasquatch package, but also as the Sasquatch is available on others is there one better than the other in reality don’t want tons of fancy luxury add on just want to build a reliable fun wheeler.

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[KillerPenz]

Start with a Base. I don't know what can be done to a Base on a 2026, but still good place to start.

I got a BaseSquatch back in 2021 when you could get the V6 in it. I've seen plenty of people liking the 2.3l though, and my kid has a '24 Big Bend with the 2.3l. The normal 3.73 gears and it turns his 35's without issues.

I'm like you, I don't need fancy shit. That's why I went Base. I'm fine with the convex/concave (whichever it is) mirrors.

 

[not on the rug]

Depends on what you want to do with it, what you want out of a vehicle and what you're willing/able to add on and modify.

 

[CalvinT]

You can start with a Badlands and add on, but only if you're willing to keep most of the factory equipment. Otherwise you're wasting your money.

If you're the type that doesn't like factory equipment just out of principle, buy a base and add on.

 

[MNBigfoot]

I am looking to buy a bronco to start building on. I am considering both used and new but was wondering is there a good trim level to start with for a build? I like the idea of a Badlands with the Sasquatch package, but also as the Sasquatch is available on others is there one better than the other in reality don’t want tons of fancy luxury add on just want to build a reliable fun wheeler.

Adding Sas to a Badlands is gerenally a waste of money, especially if getting the manual transmission.
A couple might argue different, they are wrong.

 

[Brian_B]

It generally costs more to add stuff after the fact than to get it from the factory - so I would consider that. Especially lockers.

The only things that really haven't been commonly added/changed afterward has been switching between the part time and full time transfer cases, the auto and manual trans, and the 2.3 vs 2.7

 

[GulfCoastBronco]

If you go used my rec is a Black Diamond. 4.46 gearing rear locker, vinyl wash out floor, steel bumpers, an aux switches. Front axle locking diff can be added easier on this trim as badlands auto uses 4.46 on non sas. If lockers/gearing isn’t important and you want to build, go base unless you need dual climate control.

 

[615_Bronco]

BaseSquatch, 2 door, 7 speed if you can build that spec nowadays

 

[Dr Dan]

My two cents, if it's even worth that, is that the Sasquatch package is worth it. It comes with upgraded differentials, which are beneficial for offroading, if that's your goal.

 

[michelle227]

Look at prior year Order Guides as models have been decontented through the years.

Real axle ratio can be anywhere from 3.73 to 4.70 depending on model. On my 2dr Badlands, the 7sp manual got me 4.70 without SAS. I added the electronic front disconnect.

If the upfitter switches are important, model matters on new orders. In the beginning, I believe they could even be had with the Base either as part of SAS or as stand-alone option.

Much of what you want will depend on your intentions and checkbook balance. Some NEEDS can be obtained by careful selection...

 

[michelle227]

BaseSquatch, 2 door, 7 speed if you can build that spec nowadays

Yep, can be done. One was in Pampa last week.

 

[GnormalGnome]

What is your end goal?
What do you mean by 'build'?

All Broncos are very capable off road, but your needs will vary depending on what type of trails/obstacles you aim for. Balance that with how much work you want to do vs. already having some of the most desirable upgrades.

Badlands is the best equipped non-sasquatch trim. Call it the 'already built' trim. Incredibly capable out of the box with dual lockers. No add-ons needed to take on moderately difficult trails. Mostly just limited due to the smaller non-sas tires.

Any other trim w/ sasquatch added gets you the dual lockers and larger tires, so potentially a step up from BL non-sas.

If no frills or luxury items is also the goal, base w/ sas checks that box. Drop the sas package if you really want to do the work yourself, but your wallet will thank you later if you just get sas now.

 

[DALOLA]

Just based on your own your limited info, I would go with a BaseSquatch in your choice of doors & color, and build from there. If you want more Lux stuff, jump trims until you get a better starting point.

 

[Oldhippie]

Everyone has different needs/wants…if you are going for a street ride don’t waste money on Sasquatch…if ya want to do some actual off roading the Sasquatch is a valuable option….if ya are really serious about a 4x4 bronco the Sasquatch package is a waste of money because you will be replacing all of it with better/stronger options…off road capability is the same for all Sasquatch trims (sway bar disconnect on badlands) and later years have better suspension and steering rack….good luck!

 

[HalfmuleFarmer]

I am looking to buy a bronco to start building on. I am considering both used and new but was wondering is there a good trim level to start with for a build? I like the idea of a Badlands with the Sasquatch package, but also as the Sasquatch is available on others is there one better than the other in reality don’t want tons of fancy luxury add on just want to build a reliable fun wheeler.

Don’t worry you won’t be getting “tons of fancy luxury” no matter what trim you buy.

If you want to buy everything after market then go Base. You’ll save $20K, but then you’ll spend that (or more, most likely) on 3rd party upgrades. If you want the most capable machine straight out of the box, go Badlands-Sas.

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