- First Name
- Chris
- Joined
- Mar 6, 2021
- Threads
- 75
- Messages
- 4,755
- Reaction score
- 5,185
- Location
- Cold Spring, NY
- Vehicle(s)
- 2021 Bronco, 2020 Ranger
- Your Bronco Model
- Black Diamond
- Thread starter
- #1
Not sure if this is the correct section of the forum to post this - but, it seemed right…
I wanted to take a moment to jot down my first impressions of upgrading from an early 2021 Black Diamond with the Manual Transmission and Standard Package to a 2025 Big Bend with Black Diamond also with the 7MT.
I figure there are a lot of people considering a new vehicle or trade up now that the 2026 order guide has been released - so, I hope this information and some of my opinions are helpful to some of you.
First, I’ll start by saying that I had zero intention or means to upgrade so soon. Unfortunately, my 2021 was deemed a total loss after an unfortunate and pretty traumatic boating incident - but, we’ll save that story for another day. I’ll just say - fuck electric e-brakes.
Speaking of electric e-brakes - when the hell did they decide to flip the handle/pull to engage down instead of up? That’s really screwing with me.
Here are a list of features that have changed since 2021 that really stood out to me. Some are widely discussed - some not so much. I’m not 100% certain when some of these upgrades became available - but, I figured I’d just include everything that’s putting a smile on my face that I didn’t know or expect as well as the details that essentially made me seek out a 2025 vs a used 2021-2024.
First and foremost the MAIN reason I scoured the entire Ford inventory across the continental 48 was because if I was going to spend a few extra bucks after insurance I wanted a 7MT Black Diamond with MID Package. That is an option that wasn’t available until 2025. That in of itself is worth the upgrade alone. I don’t need to go into detail on what you gain with the MID package - but, I really appreciate the BLIS, rear facing sensors, heated seats and dual HVAC. Having the 112v plug in the rear will come in handy too.
I have to say I was pretty bummed they dropped Iconic Silver at first. My original order was for Shadow Black and after ending up in the silver I really fell for it. I don’t like flashy colored vehicles and I haven’t really been a fan of the flat color paints that are all the rage…but, I’m 100% on-board with Marsh Gray. Once I saw it in person I knew it was what I wanted. I found an incredibly rare specimen. This combination didn’t exist anywhere in the US on any lot - except Valenti Ford in Mystic, CT. Thankful for them. They made me an incredible offer with an outstanding wrap warranty.
The other major reason I gravitated towards the 2025 is the new gauge cluster. It really is a nice upgrade. Especially for the 7MT. There are still some flaws (I really wish there were actual temp readouts on the gauges and why aren’t there numbers around the speedometer???) - overall it’s much more pleasant to look at and provides a lot more information (oil temp!). Navigation is integrated and interactive, there’s a decent amount of customization and a slew of additional features. A small complaint is that Sport mode is now orange themed instead of red - but, I can’t stand orange in general and red was more pleasant to my eyes.
Also, not exactly cluster related - but, for some reason they changed the order of GOAT modes and Sport is now 3rd instead of first. I guess putting slippery first is a safety concern? I gotta see if I can remove ECO so that it’s only two clicks over.
I know Sport mode always turned on 4A if equipped - but, I don’t get that. I need to read more into why and if there is any downside to immediately switching it to 2H. Why utilize 4A in dry conditions? Seems like wasteful wear to the components.
The new blinker noise is very pleasant to me. Small but, significant upgrade there IMO.
I don’t know when this feature came into play and haven’t seen it mentioned before but the Auto High Beams fading on and off instead of abrupt is incredible. That has to be editable in Forscan, no? So pleasant and modern feeling.
I must say that there is a noticeable difference in (or lack there of) cabin noise (and in turn the audio system sounds incredible - more on that later). I don’t know if it’s a combination of the SoundScreen windshield and better seals and locks on roof panels or what. Speaking of - did the locks change? These have an audible click when closed. I got the MIC for my 2021 from someone in February of 2023 - so it was a late 2022 build. I believe the stamp said October 2022. It certainly didn’t click or feel as secure/tight.
The fact that Manual transmission didn’t gain the rear vents in the console was a bummer. I didn’t realize that until I picked up. Not the end of the world. The HVAC system overall seems to have had some improvements made outside of that. I don’t remember the massive insulated vent tubes pointing towards the feet of driver and passenger from behind the dash. Between that and the heated seats, no complaints here. Rarely have a rear passenger anyhow.
I’m psyched to gain little things that were added as early as 2022 like roll bar mounts and rear sway bar mounts that I always felt I missed out on by being an early adopter. Those will both come in handy. I already have sway parts headed my way. I carry a log of cargo. I’m looking forward to feeling a bit more planted.
Other creature comforts - I don’t know what they did to make such a difference or when this changed - but the doors and tailgate latches and how they close is so much more premium. They almost have soft close drawer feel. The doors don’t feel like hollow tin cans. What changed exactly???
It’s hard for me to compare the new 2.3L since I spent the last 2 years with the Ford Tune - but out of the gate the motor and trans just seem to be talking to each other better. Does that make any sense? MPG gains seem negligible. Obviously psyched about the injection portion - but, I need to nerd out on the engine a bit more. There’s a TON of extra space in the bay. Incredible amounts on both sides. You can access the oil filter from above. The catalytic converter has full access for an upgraded downpipe…
The electric brake system is light years better than the vacuum system. Super responsive and I just feel safer knowing they’re so sensitive.
The inverted threads on the antenna threw me off. I really liked running the CravenSpeed Untenna, but that’s no longer possible. I had to get their Stubby Jr.
Onto the stereo system - and let me start by saying I’m a huge music nerd, but I’m not a professional audiophile or anything. The original stereo in the 2021 as we all know was atrocious. There are threads upon threads about upgrades and changes people have made. I was pretty happy where I ended up for $1000 or so. That being said - I would love to learn more about the current 7 speaker system. Has it been the same components since 2023 when they introduced it? Or have there been improvements? All I’ve done is drop in the Infinity REF along with 300hz bass blockers in the dash and I’m honestly extremely happy with the soundscape at the moment. I have four 6.5” Memphis for the kickers and rear pods and I don’t even know if it will be worth it. Zero need for the Kicker Key 200.4 at the moment. Would that change with the 6.5s installed? Who knows? Bass is full and physical. No rattles. Highs and mids are clear and pleasant. I listen to a large range of music and it’s all sounded pretty damn good. Especially R&B & New Wave. I haven’t thumped any deep dub yet - but, that’s my next test. I guess the bit of metal and punk I’ve tested could use a bit of EQ adjustment. I’m really curious of 2025 system is different than the previous years just like the B&O system received upgrades. My wife’s 2020 Ranger has B&O and I gotta say the 7 speaker system in my 2025 Bronco isn’t THAT far off.
That’s all for now. I’m sure I will come across more. I’m really enjoying the new truck. I haven’t taken it off-road at all yet or done much of anything fun out it. But it’s been a pleasure to drive. I don’t wish to relive the experience that led me to this - but, it’s literally the first insurance claim I’ve had in 30 years of driving. Utica National Insurance was supportive and even though it was a bit of a rollercoaster getting to a final agreement - I’m happy with the final numbers. I only pay a small amount for extra $10k aftermarket coverage and they gave me every penny I spent without depreciation on everything I couldn’t unbolt or remove once it was deemed a total loss.
So, I certainly hope your decision into a 2025 or 2026 wasn’t forced like mine and that these tidbits are helpful in your choice to upgrade or not.
It’s going through a major makeover during the next few weeks.. It’s nice to re-install some parts and modifications a second time taking what I learned the first time around. I’m making tasteful decisions and breaking less clips. Haha.
Pics to come.
Cheers,
Chris
I wanted to take a moment to jot down my first impressions of upgrading from an early 2021 Black Diamond with the Manual Transmission and Standard Package to a 2025 Big Bend with Black Diamond also with the 7MT.
I figure there are a lot of people considering a new vehicle or trade up now that the 2026 order guide has been released - so, I hope this information and some of my opinions are helpful to some of you.
First, I’ll start by saying that I had zero intention or means to upgrade so soon. Unfortunately, my 2021 was deemed a total loss after an unfortunate and pretty traumatic boating incident - but, we’ll save that story for another day. I’ll just say - fuck electric e-brakes.
Speaking of electric e-brakes - when the hell did they decide to flip the handle/pull to engage down instead of up? That’s really screwing with me.
Here are a list of features that have changed since 2021 that really stood out to me. Some are widely discussed - some not so much. I’m not 100% certain when some of these upgrades became available - but, I figured I’d just include everything that’s putting a smile on my face that I didn’t know or expect as well as the details that essentially made me seek out a 2025 vs a used 2021-2024.
First and foremost the MAIN reason I scoured the entire Ford inventory across the continental 48 was because if I was going to spend a few extra bucks after insurance I wanted a 7MT Black Diamond with MID Package. That is an option that wasn’t available until 2025. That in of itself is worth the upgrade alone. I don’t need to go into detail on what you gain with the MID package - but, I really appreciate the BLIS, rear facing sensors, heated seats and dual HVAC. Having the 112v plug in the rear will come in handy too.
I have to say I was pretty bummed they dropped Iconic Silver at first. My original order was for Shadow Black and after ending up in the silver I really fell for it. I don’t like flashy colored vehicles and I haven’t really been a fan of the flat color paints that are all the rage…but, I’m 100% on-board with Marsh Gray. Once I saw it in person I knew it was what I wanted. I found an incredibly rare specimen. This combination didn’t exist anywhere in the US on any lot - except Valenti Ford in Mystic, CT. Thankful for them. They made me an incredible offer with an outstanding wrap warranty.
The other major reason I gravitated towards the 2025 is the new gauge cluster. It really is a nice upgrade. Especially for the 7MT. There are still some flaws (I really wish there were actual temp readouts on the gauges and why aren’t there numbers around the speedometer???) - overall it’s much more pleasant to look at and provides a lot more information (oil temp!). Navigation is integrated and interactive, there’s a decent amount of customization and a slew of additional features. A small complaint is that Sport mode is now orange themed instead of red - but, I can’t stand orange in general and red was more pleasant to my eyes.
Also, not exactly cluster related - but, for some reason they changed the order of GOAT modes and Sport is now 3rd instead of first. I guess putting slippery first is a safety concern? I gotta see if I can remove ECO so that it’s only two clicks over.
I know Sport mode always turned on 4A if equipped - but, I don’t get that. I need to read more into why and if there is any downside to immediately switching it to 2H. Why utilize 4A in dry conditions? Seems like wasteful wear to the components.
The new blinker noise is very pleasant to me. Small but, significant upgrade there IMO.
I don’t know when this feature came into play and haven’t seen it mentioned before but the Auto High Beams fading on and off instead of abrupt is incredible. That has to be editable in Forscan, no? So pleasant and modern feeling.
I must say that there is a noticeable difference in (or lack there of) cabin noise (and in turn the audio system sounds incredible - more on that later). I don’t know if it’s a combination of the SoundScreen windshield and better seals and locks on roof panels or what. Speaking of - did the locks change? These have an audible click when closed. I got the MIC for my 2021 from someone in February of 2023 - so it was a late 2022 build. I believe the stamp said October 2022. It certainly didn’t click or feel as secure/tight.
The fact that Manual transmission didn’t gain the rear vents in the console was a bummer. I didn’t realize that until I picked up. Not the end of the world. The HVAC system overall seems to have had some improvements made outside of that. I don’t remember the massive insulated vent tubes pointing towards the feet of driver and passenger from behind the dash. Between that and the heated seats, no complaints here. Rarely have a rear passenger anyhow.
I’m psyched to gain little things that were added as early as 2022 like roll bar mounts and rear sway bar mounts that I always felt I missed out on by being an early adopter. Those will both come in handy. I already have sway parts headed my way. I carry a log of cargo. I’m looking forward to feeling a bit more planted.
Other creature comforts - I don’t know what they did to make such a difference or when this changed - but the doors and tailgate latches and how they close is so much more premium. They almost have soft close drawer feel. The doors don’t feel like hollow tin cans. What changed exactly???
It’s hard for me to compare the new 2.3L since I spent the last 2 years with the Ford Tune - but out of the gate the motor and trans just seem to be talking to each other better. Does that make any sense? MPG gains seem negligible. Obviously psyched about the injection portion - but, I need to nerd out on the engine a bit more. There’s a TON of extra space in the bay. Incredible amounts on both sides. You can access the oil filter from above. The catalytic converter has full access for an upgraded downpipe…
The electric brake system is light years better than the vacuum system. Super responsive and I just feel safer knowing they’re so sensitive.
The inverted threads on the antenna threw me off. I really liked running the CravenSpeed Untenna, but that’s no longer possible. I had to get their Stubby Jr.
Onto the stereo system - and let me start by saying I’m a huge music nerd, but I’m not a professional audiophile or anything. The original stereo in the 2021 as we all know was atrocious. There are threads upon threads about upgrades and changes people have made. I was pretty happy where I ended up for $1000 or so. That being said - I would love to learn more about the current 7 speaker system. Has it been the same components since 2023 when they introduced it? Or have there been improvements? All I’ve done is drop in the Infinity REF along with 300hz bass blockers in the dash and I’m honestly extremely happy with the soundscape at the moment. I have four 6.5” Memphis for the kickers and rear pods and I don’t even know if it will be worth it. Zero need for the Kicker Key 200.4 at the moment. Would that change with the 6.5s installed? Who knows? Bass is full and physical. No rattles. Highs and mids are clear and pleasant. I listen to a large range of music and it’s all sounded pretty damn good. Especially R&B & New Wave. I haven’t thumped any deep dub yet - but, that’s my next test. I guess the bit of metal and punk I’ve tested could use a bit of EQ adjustment. I’m really curious of 2025 system is different than the previous years just like the B&O system received upgrades. My wife’s 2020 Ranger has B&O and I gotta say the 7 speaker system in my 2025 Bronco isn’t THAT far off.
That’s all for now. I’m sure I will come across more. I’m really enjoying the new truck. I haven’t taken it off-road at all yet or done much of anything fun out it. But it’s been a pleasure to drive. I don’t wish to relive the experience that led me to this - but, it’s literally the first insurance claim I’ve had in 30 years of driving. Utica National Insurance was supportive and even though it was a bit of a rollercoaster getting to a final agreement - I’m happy with the final numbers. I only pay a small amount for extra $10k aftermarket coverage and they gave me every penny I spent without depreciation on everything I couldn’t unbolt or remove once it was deemed a total loss.
So, I certainly hope your decision into a 2025 or 2026 wasn’t forced like mine and that these tidbits are helpful in your choice to upgrade or not.
It’s going through a major makeover during the next few weeks.. It’s nice to re-install some parts and modifications a second time taking what I learned the first time around. I’m making tasteful decisions and breaking less clips. Haha.
Pics to come.
Cheers,
Chris
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