The Ford Bronco and the Ford Bronco Raptor have quickly become two of the most popular off-road vehicles on the market. They are well-known for their rugged design, off-road capability, and powerful performance. But what many people don’t realize is that these vehicles also make fantastic daily drivers, combining the best of both worlds: on-road comfort and off-road versatility. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or heading out for a weekend adventure, the Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Raptor are more than capable of handling it all.
Let’s break down why these vehicles are such great options for daily driving and how upgrading them with Bestop Skyrider or Bestop Sunrider accessories can make your daily drive even more fun and enjoyable.
Built for Comfort and Adventure
While the Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Raptor are known for their off-road prowess, Ford has made sure that these vehicles are comfortable enough for everyday use. Whether you’re driving on a paved highway or taking on some rugged terrain, you can expect a smooth, comfortable ride. The Ford Bronco comes with a range of suspension options, including Bilstein shock absorbers and a HOSS (High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension) system, ensuring that every ride is stable and comfortable.
The Bronco Raptor takes things even further. Designed to dominate extreme off-road environments, the Raptor is fitted with Fox Racing shocks and a reinforced suspension system that can handle high speeds on rough terrain without sacrificing comfort on the pavement. Despite its off-road focus, the Bronco Raptor provides a remarkably composed ride for city commutes, thanks to its adaptive suspension system that automatically adjusts based on road conditions.
For many people, one of the most important factors when choosing a daily driver is cargo space and interior room. Both the Bronco and Bronco Raptor deliver in this area. The spacious interior can comfortably seat up to five adults, with ample room for cargo in the back. Whether you’re hauling groceries, camping gear, or your dog, you’ll have plenty of space.
Modern Tech for Convenience and Safety
Ford has packed the Bronco and Bronco Raptor with the latest technology to make your daily drive as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Features like Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system provide seamless integration with your smartphone, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and use navigation apps all without taking your eyes off the road. The system’s 12-inch touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, making it perfect for those who rely on tech during their commute.
In terms of safety, both the Bronco and Bronco Raptor are equipped with advanced driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. These features make highway driving safer and less stressful, which is essential for daily drivers.
Another often-overlooked feature is the removable roof and doors, which bring a level of versatility that few vehicles can offer. While they’re perfect for weekend adventures, they can also bring a sense of freedom to your daily drive. Imagine commuting to work with the roof off, feeling the wind in your hair, and soaking in the sun.
Fuel Efficiency (Really!) and Power
While large SUVs and trucks are often criticized for poor fuel efficiency, the Ford Bronco strikes a reasonable balance between power and efficiency. The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine offers 300 horsepower while delivering a respectable 20-22 miles per gallon. If you want more power, the 2.7-liter V6 engine kicks things up a notch with 330 horsepower while maintaining similar fuel economy numbers.
The Bronco Raptor, being a more performance-oriented vehicle, comes with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 418 horsepower. Though its fuel efficiency takes a hit due to its high-performance capabilities, it’s still a viable option for a daily driver, especially if you value power and off-road performance.
The Bestop Skyrider and Sunrider: Taking the Fun Factor to a New Level
One of the standout features of both the Ford Bronco and Bronco Raptor is their open-air design. Ford allows you to easily remove the roof and doors for a truly immersive driving experience. However, constantly removing and replacing the hardtop can be time-consuming and cumbersome. That’s where Bestop’s Skyrider and Sunrider come into play.
Bestop Skyrider for Hardtop (2021-2024 Ford Bronco 4-Door)
The Bestop Skyrider is an exciting addition for those who own a 2021-2024 Ford Bronco 4-door with a hardtop. The Skyrider allows you to quickly and easily convert your Bronco into an open-air vehicle without having to remove the entire hardtop. The Skyrider is a soft top that replaces the hard top’s front two panels, allowing you to enjoy the open sky whenever you want. It’s perfect for those days when the weather is too nice to keep the roof on but you don’t want to deal with the hassle of removing heavy panels.
The Skyrider’s durable fabric and sleek design ensure that it blends seamlessly with your Bronco’s hardtop. With the Skyrider installed, you can open or close the roof with ease while you’re on the go. It’s an ideal upgrade for daily drivers who want the flexibility to enjoy an open-air experience at a moment’s notice.
Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop (2021-2024 Ford Bronco & Bronco Raptor)
Similar to the Skyrider, the Bestop Sunrider is designed to replace the front two hardtop panels, but it is compatible with both the Ford Bronco and the Bronco Raptor. What makes the Sunrider unique is how user-friendly it is. The Sunrider can be opened or closed with just one hand, allowing you to instantly let in fresh air and sunlight without pulling over.
This is particularly useful for people who use their Bronco or Bronco Raptor as their daily driver. You can drive to work in the morning with the Sunrider closed to stay warm, and then easily flip it open during your lunch break to enjoy the afternoon sun. The Sunrider is made with heavy-duty fabric that’s designed to withstand the elements, meaning you won’t have to worry about leaks or wear and tear. Plus, it offers excellent insulation, so even when it’s closed, you won’t notice much difference in cabin noise or temperature.
Making the Ford Bronco Your Ultimate Daily Driver
The Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Raptor already provide the perfect blend of rugged off-road capabilities and daily driving comforts. But by adding a Bestop Skyrider or Sunrider, you can take the driving experience to the next level. Whether you’re commuting to work, taking a road trip, or hitting the trails, having the option to open up the roof quickly and easily adds an extra layer of fun and freedom.
With the comfort, technology, and customization options available, it’s easy to see why the Ford Bronco or Ford Bronco Raptor can be a perfect fit as your only vehicle or daily driver. Whether you’re tackling tough terrain or cruising through the city, these vehicles deliver performance, versatility, and an unbeatable open-air experience—especially when enhanced with Bestop accessories.
Images: Bestop, Ford