What rear end is in the new Bronco?
In brief, the Ford Bronco uses a Dana-sourced live rear axle (Dana AdvanTEK) with a final-drive ratio that varies by trim, with the Sasquatch off-road package adding a 4.7:1 final drive for improved crawling.
Axle architecture and overall design
The Bronco’s chassis architecture centers on rugged, off-road-ready axles. Both front and rear ends are designed as solid live axles with coil-spring suspension, a setup chosen to maximize articulation and durability when traversing rocky terrain or deep ruts. Ford sources these axles from Dana, aligning the Bronco with other hardcore off-road vehicles in its class. The rear axle in most trims is part of the Dana AdvanTEK family, a modern Evolution of Dana’s axle technology intended to handle higher torque loads and larger tires.
Rear axle family and construction
Technically, the Bronco uses a Dana AdvanTEK rear axle (commonly associated with the Dana 44-class family for this platform). This axle is paired with an electronic or mechanical differential option depending on trim and package, and it is tuned for off-road durability, load capacity, and easy aftermarket compatibility. The design emphasizes straightforward, rugged serviceability—an important trait for owners planning overlanding or rock-crawling trips.
Gearing and final-drive options
Final-drive ratio choices on the Bronco are tied to trim level and drivetrain configuration. A typical, non-specialized 4x4 setup defaults to a 3.73:1 final drive, while the high-grip Sasquatch package upgrades the system to a 4.7:1 final drive. This lower gearing improves crawl speed and torque multiplication at low speeds, helpful for steep trails and rock faces. Gear selection also interacts with engine choice (2.3-liter or 2.7-liter) and transmission type, influencing off-road performance and on-road efficiency.
It’s worth noting that axle gear configurations are often paired with tire size considerations. If a owner mounts larger-than-stock tires, the final-drive ratio effectively changes in how the engine contributes to road speed and torque at the wheels, which is why the package you choose matters for off-road versatility and highway behavior.
Differentials and traction aids
Rear differential options include an electronic locking differential on many variants, improving traction when one wheel has little grip. Availability of locking diffs can vary by trim and package; higher-end off-road-focused models typically include electronic locking as a standard or readily available feature. A selectable front locker is also offered on some builds, enhancing all-around traction for challenging terrain.
These traction aids are complemented by advanced stability systems and Off-Road modes that tailor throttle response, torque delivery, and braking to match surface conditions, helping the rear end maintain grip when the terrain gets unpredictable.
What this means for performance and ownership
For potential buyers and enthusiasts, the Bronco’s rear end translates to a system built to take on rugged trails with confidence. The Dana AdvanTEK rear axle provides a robust base for upgrading to larger tires and additional armor, while the selectable gearing and differential options give owners the flexibility to optimize crawl ratios for specific trails. In practice, the combination supports both rock crawling and desert-running needs, depending on how the vehicle is equipped.
In comparison to rivals in the off-road two-door and four-door segments, Ford’s approach with a proven Dana platform mirrors industry expectations for durability and aftermarket availability. The choice between a standard 3.73 final drive and the 4.7 final drive with Sasquatch lets buyers tune the Bronco toward smoother highway cruising or more aggressive crawling on backcountry routes.
- Rear axle type: Dana AdvanTEK live axle (Dana 44-class) for most trims
- Differentials: Electronic locking rear differential available on many models
- Final-drive options: Typically 3.73:1 on standard 4x4s; 4.7:1 with Sasquatch for enhanced low-speed performance
- Suspension: Coil-sprung rear setup designed for articulation and durability on rough terrain
Before you dive into the specifics, here are the key rear-end features to consider when evaluating Bronco trims:
Concluding this overview, your choice of Bronco trim and options will influence which rear-end characteristics you get—particularly the final-drive ratio and differential configuration—so it pays to match the spec sheet to your intended use, whether on-road daily driving or serious off-road expeditions.
Summary
The new Bronco’s rear end centers on a Dana AdvanTEK solid rear axle, with a 3.73:1 final drive on standard 4x4 configurations and a 4.7:1 final drive available with the Sasquatch package for deeper crawling capability. Electronic locking differentials and optional front lockers further enhance traction, making the Bronco a versatile platform for both trail and terrain-specific needs. As with any off-road vehicle, the exact rear-end configuration varies by trim and package, so buyers should verify the axle and gearing details on the specific model they’re considering.
What is the difference between the 2025 and 2024 Ford Bronco?
The main differences are that the 2025 Ford Bronco receives more technology and comfort upgrades, a revised trim lineup, and a quieter ride, while the 2024 Bronco offered a broader selection of trims and a more traditional off-road focus. Key 2025 upgrades include a standard 12-inch digital gauge cluster, an improved infotainment system, and more durable interior materials, but the 2025 also sees the discontinuation of trims like the Black Diamond and Wildtrak.
This video demonstrates the exterior differences between the 2024 and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport models: 1mThe Car GuysYouTube · Mar 22, 2025
2025 Ford Bronco vs. 2024 Ford Bronco
| Feature | 2025 Bronco | 2024 Bronco |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Technology | Standard 12-inch digital gauge cluster and updated Sync 4 infotainment system. | 8-inch digital cluster on most models. |
| Comfort & Materials | More durable interior materials and improved comfort options. | Less durable and advanced interior materials. |
| Trims | Base trim reintroduced, Stroppe Edition added, and trims like Black Diamond, Everglades, and Wildtrak discontinued. | Wider selection of trims available, including Black Diamond, Everglades, and Wildtrak. |
| Sound | Quieter ride due to enhanced sound deadening. | Less sound deadening, resulting in a louder ride. |
| Performance | Same engine options as 2024. | Same engine options as 2025. |
| Off-road Capability | Sasquatch Package now available on the Base trim. | Sasquatch Package was not available on the Base trim. |
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This video shows the exterior differences between the 2024 and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport models: 1mjmcGarageYouTube · Jan 26, 2025
What type of rear suspension does the Bronco have?
How does the Bronco rear suspension differ from the front? Unlike the independent front suspension, it features a solid rear axle with a five-link design and coil-over springs, providing a balance of durability, articulation, and ride comfort.
Is the Bronco built on the F150 frame?
Chassis. Again based on the Ford F-Series, the 1980–1986 Bronco is based upon the Ford F-150 (1980–1986 seventh generation). Although based on an all-new chassis, the Bronco retained its 104 in (2,642 mm) wheelbase.
Does Ford still use Dana axles?
Ford still uses the Dana 60 front axle. Manufactured in both Kingpin and Ball joint variations, "standard" (low pinion) and "reverse cut" rotation (high pinion) variations and open and limited slip, and locking variations. The housing material is Gray iron in early axles and Ductile iron in later axles.
