My 4Runner on a Bilstein 6112/5160 and 285 BFGs could handle quite a bit. I didn't rock crawl, just did similar exploring to what you are describing. Primarily what would be considered blue level trails. I bring that up due to the 4Runner/GX being the same platform. I currently have a '11 GX460, stock with with some Yoko Geolandar in stock size. The ground clearance suffers a bit with the running boards, but I could pull those off if needed.
Unless you're really building up the GX, you shouldn't need 10-15k unless you're going full Expo on it. Wheels, tires, and the Bilstein setup on the 4Runner ran maybe $2500 or so, all in. If you're talking 2.5" or more of lift, then you'll need new upper arms, too.
I can't compare to a Bronco yet, as mine is stranded on Dirt Mountain, so hopefully I'll be able to before the end of '22. But it sounds like the Bronco should also be able to do the same level of exploring with probably just better tires.
Unless you're really building up the GX, you shouldn't need 10-15k unless you're going full Expo on it. Wheels, tires, and the Bilstein setup on the 4Runner ran maybe $2500 or so, all in. If you're talking 2.5" or more of lift, then you'll need new upper arms, too.
I can't compare to a Bronco yet, as mine is stranded on Dirt Mountain, so hopefully I'll be able to before the end of '22. But it sounds like the Bronco should also be able to do the same level of exploring with probably just better tires.
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