Two off-road legends, the new Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, are set to square off again as 2026 rolls around. While these upcoming models remain shrouded in speculation since they haven't hit showrooms yet, they're shaping up to be top picks for Plano drivers who need serious trail-tackling ability without sacrificing everyday comfort. Read on to find out what we can expect from these two adventure-ready SUVs for the 2026 model year.
Performance and Engine Options
The Wrangler brings impressive power options for 2026, with most powertrains thought to be carrying over from the previous model year. Its base 3.6-liter V-6 cranks out 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, hitting 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. There's also a 2.0-liter gas engine making 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, taking 8 seconds to reach 60 mph.
However, the standouts are surely the 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain that generates 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, going from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, and the 6.4L HEMI V-8, currently only available on the Rubicon 392, packing 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, which rockets from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.
It's anticipated that the Bronco's engines will also carry over from 2025, with the standard turbo 2.3-liter four-cylinder putting out 275 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque on regular gas or 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. There's also a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V-6 that delivers 315 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque or 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel.
The 2.3-liter Broncos go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3-7.9 seconds, while V-6 models vary between 6.6 and 8.4 seconds. It's possible that Ford might add a hybrid Bronco to the lineup for 2026 to compete with the Wrangler 4xe.
Design and Customization Potential
As the Wrangler received major styling updates for 2024, we're expecting only a minor refresh for 2026. You might see updated LED lights and a refined seven-slot grille, but we can almost guarantee you that the Wrangler's classic boxy shape isn't going anywhere. Available in two- or four-door configurations with removable roofs, Jeep makes it easy to customize your ride with a wide range of powertrains and options until you've got a Wrangler that's uniquely yours.
Not to be outdone, the Bronco also comes in two- and four-door variants, which are built for adventure with retro-inspired styling. Like the Wrangler, you can remove the doors and roof for that wind-in-your-hair freedom that makes off-roading so addictive.
Inside, the 2026 four-door Bronco gives you 43.1 inches of front legroom and 36.3 inches in the back with 38.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 83 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. This beats the Wrangler four-door, which gives you 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 38.3 inches in the back, plus 31.7 or 72.4 cubic feet of cargo space, depending on whether the seats are folded.
Infotainment and Technology Features
Currently, all Wranglers get a 12.3-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation, and we expect this to stay the same for the new model year. Base models come with one USB port, but higher trims feature up to seven. Sound options range from a standard eight-speaker stereo to a nine-speaker Alpine system.
The 2026 Bronco's technologies are expected to center around a 12-inch touch screen sporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 12-inch digital gauge cluster. You'll likely get USB ports for both rows and a seven-speaker audio system as standard, with a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen system as an optional upgrade.
Higher Wrangler trims add remote start, heated seats and steering wheel, and auxiliary switches, while the Bronco offers a 360-degree camera, digital rearview mirror, garage door opener, and prewired auxiliary switches for easy modification and add-ons. Both SUVs strike a great balance of rugged capability and modern tech.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
Jeep keeps innovating with bigger screens, better driver aids, and safety systems that'll put your mind at ease. We expect the 2026 Wrangler to include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and parking sensors to help you navigate both city streets and tight trails.
Ford equips the Bronco with its Co-Pilot360 safety suite, which includes front automatic braking, auto high beams, and trailer sway control so you can tow with confidence. Using cameras and radar, the system can detect potential crashes and apply the brakes to avoid or minimize impacts. Higher trims add features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alerts, blind-spot monitoring, and front and rear parking sensors.
Both automakers have successfully figured out how to make rugged off-roaders that still protect you and your crew with modern safety technologies. For Plano drivers who need a vehicle that handles school runs and trail runs with equal capability, both the Wrangler and the Bronco deliver.
Which Adventure-Ready SUV Is Right for Your Plano Lifestyle?
Both the 2026 Wrangler and Bronco are shaping up to be outstanding off-road vehicles. However, if you're after a true off-road icon with proven trail credibility, the Wrangler is tough to beat. Want to learn more about the Wrangler or our current Jeep offerings? Contact us at Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Plano and chat with our team. We know what Texas drivers need and can help you pick the perfect vehicle for your adventures — whether you're conquering Barnwell Mountain or just want a comfortable ride for your daily commute.