Want a Bronco as a daily driver (new to the forum). Think the Outer Banks is the best bet for me... Am I right?

Motorcobra
Nov 17, 2024

Rank 0

Nov 17, 2024

Hi all,

Thanks in advance for any and all insight provided! I have been driving a 2004 Element for over a decade. A great car for my needs, and she is still chugging along. Still, the Broncos kept catching my eye, so now I've decided to order a 2025. At first I was looking at the Bronco Sport, but I think some of my weekly gear-lugging duties might be a little too much for the Sport (I am a guitar player that has to carry a half-stack, two guitars in cases, various other stuff). Also, the Sport just doesn't look as fun as the full-sized Bronco.

I am thinking the 4-door Outer Banks is going to be the best fit for my priorities?
  • Daily driver (want at least 20 mpg)
    • Seems that only the 2025 Base and Outer Banks fit this need due to tire size?
  • Want at least the Mid package, but looks like you have to go Luxe to get the upgraded stereo?
  • Would like an option for less noise, so was looking at the two-top package.

I won't be doing much off-roading, so it looks like I wouldn't benefit/need any of the rear axle/rear locking differential upgrades?

If there are any exterior/interior upgrades you think are worthwhile---please suggest?

I was also looking at the Toyota Land Cruiser, but they are too large, expensive, and also just a little "blah", don't seem to have the fun on tap the Bronco has.

Thanks for your help!
Chief Ron

Don’t Let the Hard Days Win!

Nov 17, 2024

#1
Hi all,

Thanks in advance for any and all insight provided! I have been driving a 2004 Element for over a decade. A great car for my needs, and she is still chugging along. Still, the Broncos kept catching my eye, so now I've decided to order a 2025. At first I was looking at the Bronco Sport, but I think some of my weekly gear-lugging duties might be a little too much for the Sport (I am a guitar player that has to carry a half-stack, two guitars in cases, various other stuff). Also, the Sport just doesn't look as fun as the full-sized Bronco.

I am thinking the 4-door Outer Banks is going to be the best fit for my priorities?
  • Daily driver (want at least 20 mpg)
    • Seems that only the 2025 Base and Outer Banks fit this need due to tire size?
  • Want at least the Mid package, but looks like you have to go Luxe to get the upgraded stereo?
  • Would like an option for less noise, so was looking at the two-top package.

I won't be doing much off-roading, so it looks like I wouldn't benefit/need any of the rear axle/rear locking differential upgrades?

If there are any exterior/interior upgrades you think are worthwhile---please suggest?

I was also looking at the Toyota Land Cruiser, but they are too large, expensive, and also just a little "blah", don't seem to have the fun on tap the Bronco has.

Thanks for your help!
Outer banks with 2.3 should meet your needs
Riding OB1, 23 4- door Outer Banks, SAS, MOD, MIC, Lux, Ordered 10/20/22, delivered 1/13/23
Motorcobra

Rank 0

Nov 17, 2024

#2
Outer banks with 2.3 should meet your needs

Thanks!

Rank IV

Nov 17, 2024

#3
Agreed. Hopefully those with that setup will chime in.
The hard top with noise carpet will help, but I must admit, it's still noisy on a trip.

While I went for more off road capable I find it fun to drive. My daily driver is a 1 ton crew cab dually. When I hop in the Bronco it's like going from boots to sneakers. Just plane ol fun.
Motorcobra, PSUTE

Gladesmen

Nov 17, 2024

#4
My wife daily drives what I thought was my Bronco, and she came from a Chevy Suburban LTZ to a Mid package Bronco, and the drive is on Par if not better than the suburban. No we don’t have all the creature comforts but it has everything we need. We have one of the heaviest stock broncos with Sas and the 2.3l and we are averaging in the high 19’ MPG with a lot of low speed driving through the hills on a dirt road- not good for MPGs. So I think an OBX will work nicely. Also the better stereo is not worth going to the lux package for ( if that is all you want from the lux) you would be way better served upgrading the speakers and amp aftermarket. Also the ride might be a tad bit louder that your current ride but being able to take the top off on a vehicle that can pack all of your gear is pretty cool. I am about to throw the bikini top on the Bronco now that we finally have some top off weather here.
Bronco Nation 1100. Everglades, Desert Sand
Res: 7/30/20 ordered 1/22/21 reorder 10/15/21 changed to Everglades 3/9/22 schedule 8/29/22 bumped to 9/5; 9/7/22 blend, 9/9 Mods, 9/26/22 completed, 10/7 shipped, 11/3/22 delivery
Motorcobra, PSUTE
Moderator

Life is a Highway

Nov 17, 2024

#5
You my not get the 20 MPG with any of the full sized Bronco’s
Motorcobra, Deano Bronc

Gladesmen

Nov 18, 2024

#6
You my not get the 20 MPG with any of the full sized Bronco’s

I agree with this if the MPGs are important I would expect 17-18 ish and if you do better that is a bonus. If you need the MPGs you might look at the sports again. I think you will be surprised by the cargo capacity and if you go Sasquatch package you will get a pretty rugged vehicle.if you want looks even a lifted big bend is cool. But if you are willing to give up a few MPGs and want the ability to remove the top then you would be hard pressed to beat a full-size OBX.
Bronco Nation 1100. Everglades, Desert Sand
Res: 7/30/20 ordered 1/22/21 reorder 10/15/21 changed to Everglades 3/9/22 schedule 8/29/22 bumped to 9/5; 9/7/22 blend, 9/9 Mods, 9/26/22 completed, 10/7 shipped, 11/3/22 delivery
Motorcobra, TK1215

Rank 0

Nov 18, 2024

#7
Thanks to all of you for getting back with me, reading your replies is just making me want to go out and buy one tomorrow hahaha. @Jakob1972 thanks for the intel on the stereo---that really is the main reason I'd be going for that and many of the other features I really don't think I need.
Jakob1972

🇨🇦 Never 51 🇨🇦

Nov 18, 2024

#8
I Have an Outerbanks Lux(high) with the 2.3 and carpet lined Hardtop; it has accomplished everything you want as laid out when kept most exclusivley in Eco mode. I do however have a 2 door which is no longer available for the Outerbanks. The 4 door will take a slight dip in fuel economy but will better accommodate your band equipment. The 4 door also has a larger fuel tank which will allow longer periods without fueling up. The Lux gets you a better stereo and internal materials in addition to:
  • 360-Degree Camera
  • ● Additional Sound Deadening
  • ● Adaptive Cruise Control
  • ● B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®, 10 Speakers including Subwoofer
  • ● Evasive Steering Assist
  • ● Front Parking Sensors
  • ● Heated Steering Wheel
  • ● Information on Demand Panel (included in SYNC® 4 with Enhanced Voice Recognition
I don't tend to like nanies but the cameras are really useful. The only regret I have is not getting Saquatch but that's purely from a visual standpoint, not sure why but the SAS just sits and looks better.
Supreme Leader of the Wandering but NOT Lost
2022 OBX Cyber Orange Metallic with random acutriments.
Motorcobra, Bluestreak57

Rank VI

Nov 18, 2024

#9
You my not get the 20 MPG with any of the full sized Bronco’s

Seems you can IF you drive like a granny!
My 2.7 gets me around 18 over the summer (summer blend), but I'm typically doing 80 down the highway. My kid's 2.3 was getting 19, but he's got a slight leadfoot as well. I've seen people claim 20+ so who knows, must be possible.

As for everyone wanting mid package, that's up to you. But personally that blind spot light on the mirrors sucks in my opinion. I drove a Bronco with it years ago, couldn't stand it. I prefer the little blind spot mirror.
2021 Broncos - BaseSquatch 4dr. Rapid Red V6 Soft Top
Big Bed 4dr. AMB V6 Soft Top Tow (BIL's)
Nitto tires SUCK! You've been warned.
Motorcobra, Jakob1972

Rank IV

Nov 18, 2024

#10
Hi all,

Thanks in advance for any and all insight provided! I have been driving a 2004 Element for over a decade. A great car for my needs, and she is still chugging along. Still, the Broncos kept catching my eye, so now I've decided to order a 2025. At first I was looking at the Bronco Sport, but I think some of my weekly gear-lugging duties might be a little too much for the Sport (I am a guitar player that has to carry a half-stack, two guitars in cases, various other stuff). Also, the Sport just doesn't look as fun as the full-sized Bronco.

I am thinking the 4-door Outer Banks is going to be the best fit for my priorities?
  • Daily driver (want at least 20 mpg)
    • Seems that only the 2025 Base and Outer Banks fit this need due to tire size?
  • Want at least the Mid package, but looks like you have to go Luxe to get the upgraded stereo?
  • Would like an option for less noise, so was looking at the two-top package.

I won't be doing much off-roading, so it looks like I wouldn't benefit/need any of the rear axle/rear locking differential upgrades?

If there are any exterior/interior upgrades you think are worthwhile---please suggest?

I was also looking at the Toyota Land Cruiser, but they are too large, expensive, and also just a little "blah", don't seem to have the fun on tap the Bronco has.

Thanks for your help!

Check out this article first.

https://www.roadandtrack.com/reviews/a61612994/2024-ford-bronco-big-bend-review/
Speed is The Freedom of The Soul !!!
Motorcobra

Don’t Let the Hard Days Win!

Nov 18, 2024

#11
I have a 2023 Outer Banks Sasquatch 4door 2.7 with Lux package. I ran regular fuel in it for the first 10000 miles or so, and have since switched to premium… I run in ECO mode mostly, and generally hover in everyday driving at about 20 mpg… on a recent trip to Moab (some of it on 80 mph freeways) I got about 19.4 mpg with regular fuel.

The noise level in all the Broncos at highway speed will make the stereo selection a bit of a moot point, although I find for me the stereo quality (B&O) is very acceptable (full disclosure, I have never blown a speaker out). For me the 360 camera and the cloth seats (no longer available) really make the rig great if you’re going to use it as a daily driver… leveling the interior back end with a flat floor (back seats down) will give you more than enough room for your band equipment.

I would definitely splurge again for the Sasquatch package, if for no other reason than the visual vs. standard. When I ordered my Bronco a couple years ago my salesguy (for about 20 years) wouldn’t let me order a standard OB but insisted I order a Sasquatch, saying “you’re going to want to sell it someday, and the resale difference will be large… we’ll see…

Good Luck! IMG_1472.jpeg
Riding OB1, 23 4- door Outer Banks, SAS, MOD, MIC, Lux, Ordered 10/20/22, delivered 1/13/23
Motorcobra, PSUTE

Rank 0

Nov 18, 2024

#12
I have the 2.7 and run right about 20mpg going to work and running around town. Hit almost 24 mpg on a drive to Tennessee last week for the Bronco Off Roadeo. MPG varies depending on your driving habits tho.
‘24 Carbonized Gray Outer Banks 4dr, 2.7L
Motorcobra, PSUTE

🇨🇦 Never 51 🇨🇦

Nov 18, 2024

#13
I have a 2023 Outer Banks Sasquatch 4door 2.7 with Lux package. I ran regular fuel in it for the first 10000 miles or so, and have since switched to premium… I run in ECO mode mostly, and generally hover in everyday driving at about 20 mpg… on a recent trip to Moab (some of it on 80 mph freeways) I got about 19.4 mpg with regular fuel.

The noise level in all the Broncos at highway speed will make the stereo selection a bit of a moot point, although I find for me the stereo quality (B&O) is very acceptable (full disclosure, I have never blown a speaker out). For me the 360 camera and the cloth seats (no longer available) really make the rig great if you’re going to use it as a daily driver… leveling the interior back end with a flat floor (back seats down) will give you more than enough room for your band equipment.

I would definitely splurge again for the Sasquatch package, if for no other reason than the visual vs. standard. When I ordered my Bronco a couple years ago my salesguy (for about 20 years) wouldn’t let me order a standard OB but insisted I order a Sasquatch, saying “you’re going to want to sell it someday, and the resale difference will be large… we’ll see…

Good Luck! IMG_1472.jpeg
I agree the SAS looks far superior. The cabin is noisy BUT I only notice it with the stereo off. I have the B&O and the sound is far superior then the lower stereo. When needed it DOES drown out the strong winds outside the cabin. I've driven through some windstorms and monsoons and the stereo is good for it.
Supreme Leader of the Wandering but NOT Lost
2022 OBX Cyber Orange Metallic with random acutriments.
Motorcobra, Bluestreak57

Rank 0

Nov 18, 2024

#14
I Have an Outerbanks Lux(high) with the 2.3 and carpet lined Hardtop; it has accomplished everything you want as laid out when kept most exclusivley in Eco mode. I do however have a 2 door which is no longer available for the Outerbanks. The 4 door will take a slight dip in fuel economy but will better accommodate your band equipment. The 4 door also has a larger fuel tank which will allow longer periods without fueling up. The Lux gets you a better stereo and internal materials in addition to:
  • 360-Degree Camera
  • ● Additional Sound Deadening
  • ● Adaptive Cruise Control
  • ● B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®, 10 Speakers including Subwoofer
  • ● Evasive Steering Assist
  • ● Front Parking Sensors
  • ● Heated Steering Wheel
  • ● Information on Demand Panel (included in SYNC® 4 with Enhanced Voice Recognition
I don't tend to like nanies but the cameras are really useful. The only regret I have is not getting Saquatch but that's purely from a visual standpoint, not sure why but the SAS just sits and looks better.

Thanks for this thorough intel @OrangecrushBronco !
OrangecrushBronco

Rank 0

Nov 18, 2024

#15

This is awesome @JAD67428! Thanks for posting this.
JAD67428

Rank 0

Nov 19, 2024

#16
I have a 2023 Outer Banks Sasquatch 4door 2.7 with Lux package. I ran regular fuel in it for the first 10000 miles or so, and have since switched to premium… I run in ECO mode mostly, and generally hover in everyday driving at about 20 mpg… on a recent trip to Moab (some of it on 80 mph freeways) I got about 19.4 mpg with regular fuel.

The noise level in all the Broncos at highway speed will make the stereo selection a bit of a moot point, although I find for me the stereo quality (B&O) is very acceptable (full disclosure, I have never blown a speaker out). For me the 360 camera and the cloth seats (no longer available) really make the rig great if you’re going to use it as a daily driver… leveling the interior back end with a flat floor (back seats down) will give you more than enough room for your band equipment.

I would definitely splurge again for the Sasquatch package, if for no other reason than the visual vs. standard. When I ordered my Bronco a couple years ago my salesguy (for about 20 years) wouldn’t let me order a standard OB but insisted I order a Sasquatch, saying “you’re going to want to sell it someday, and the resale difference will be large… we’ll see…

Good Luck! IMG_1472.jpegThanks for posting @Bluestreak57, this is a great help!
Bluestreak57

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