Bash plates - options.. what's the difference?

The "Front Steel Bash Plates" only protect the front end, while "Bash Plates" include underbody protection. The descriptions on B&P are woefully inadequate.

If you click on the (i) icon you get these descriptions:
Bash Plates: "Standard on Black Diamond, Badlands, and First Edition. Available with Heavy Duty Modular Front Bumper."
Front Steel Bash Plates: "Available on all Bronco Models. Requires Heavy Duty Modular Front Bumper."

Breakdown clipped from the "Bronco Lineup" pdf Ford published in July:


Base, Big Bend, & Outer Banks: "Front Steel Bash Plates" is included with the modular front bumper for $825.

Black Diamond, Badlands, & FE: "Bash Plates" is included as standard equipment.

Wildtrak:

• "Front Steel Bash Plates" is included with the modular front bumper for $825.
• If you don't select the modular bumper first and then select "Bash Plates" it requires adding the modular bumper and charges $1220 total.
• If you select the "Front Steel Bash Plates" it requires adding the modular bumper and charges $825 total.

Yet another reason for me to reconsider my plans to go with the Base model.

TorgSurv

Yet another reason for me to reconsider my plans to go with the Base model.

Thanks so much for breaking it down for me!! The description on B&P is terrible... so, when I add on the bash plates/bumper onto the Wildtrak, and equip it with leather interior, it is more expensive than a similarly equipped Badlands (with MGV) .. that helps me confirm my decision!

Here's a little better description of the HD underbody protection standard on BD, BL, & FE, and available on WT (from the July 13 press release):

Bronco’s strategically placed steel shields protect critical hardware. Higher-capability models get an available front bash plate, plus shields for the engine, transmission, transfer case and fuel tank. For those taking on the roughest rocky terrain, Bronco’s available side rock rails are strong enough to support the weight of each side of the vehicle.

If you look on the website, it looks like it's incorrect. Here, it says the OB model comes standard with full underbody bash plates and rock rails: https://shop.ford.com/configure/bronco/model/customize/base

However, if you look at the (seemingly more accurate) .pdf, it says that it's only the front bash plate that's optional. https://www.ford.com/cmslibs/conten.../suvs/bronco/2021/pdf/21_Bronco_lineup_HR.pdf

It's kind of odd that the 2dr doesn't get a fuel skid plate.

Buckin Bronco

It's kind of odd that the 2dr doesn't get a fuel skid plate.

Could it be because it’s closer to the axel and tires with the shorter wheel base which offers natural protection? Also, its a 2 door nobody wants them. :p:ROFLMAO:

Kidding truly. I really wanted a 2d, but the wife/accountant told me I can get my dream car, as long as its 4 door. So I compromised and got an FE 4door. :ROFLMAO: Come on August delivery!

Shadowblade

Buckin Bronco

It's kind of odd that the 2dr doesn't get a fuel skid plate.

Could it be because it’s closer to the axel and tires with the shorter wheel base which offers natural protection? Also, its a 2 door nobody wants them. :p:ROFLMAO:

Kidding truly. I really wanted a 2d, but the wife/accountant told me I can get my dream car, as long as its 4 door. So I compromised and got an FE 4door. :ROFLMAO: Come on August delivery!

I certainly hope it will be protected properly. Maybe the AM will come up with something if the tank needs more protection.

Calgecko

I'm finding myself still undecided between a 4 door Wildtrack with High trim package and Leather interior, OR 4D Badlands with Sasquatch, 2.7 and hardtop roof... price between the two comes out VERY close ... one thing I'm unclear on though, is the two different 'bash plate' options ... One says "steel" bash plates, but the other just says "bash plates" with no description (leaving me to think they are not steel, but something else)?


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Several aftermarket sets of plating are/will be available from Ford and other supplier's. I dont like Ford's modular bumper, so will decide on plates later . . . And wait for a different modular bumper . . . If i get one. This full armor plating is heavy, and for me, unnecessary overkill since I primarily drive on sand! But if I start going near big rocks, i might change my mind, and add some plating..