2012 Kia Optima Hybrid

I'm less concerned about recalls than actually blowing engines/transmissions early and needing warranty work. But, as David noted, the 2.7 sounds like it did have early issues and I have definitely read and watched videos where the 10spd isn't exactly smooth or doing what people want or expect it to do.

The Bronco has had more recalls than buyers lol. (I embellish but you get the point)

That is so much better than the Ford Bronco IMHO.

this thing is cool and totally buildable

BOLT 3.0 Minivan style

I bet some of that depends on the actual seat height and where your head is in the window. For somebody short like myself, it may feel more bunker-like if the seat is low. For example, the Camaro sat low with a low seat AND the window was small. One of my good friends had a 5th gen and I did not feel comfortable looking out of that thing. I felt like I couldn't see anything in any direction. My friend said backing it up was a complete guessing game. You just had to hope and pray nothing moved out while you were backing up.

To sum it up for the Ford Bronco series: Engine and Mechanical Issues One of the most serious problems involves the 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine, particularly in early Bronco Wildtrak models. Owners have reported sudden engine failures due to faulty valves, which can break and damage the engine block or head, sometimes before 5,000 miles. This issue is linked to a bad batch of valves produced between July and October 2021, and Ford has not issued a recall for it. Other engine concerns include misfires, rough idling, and check engine warnings, often resolved with software updates or sensor replacements. Fuel starvation and incorrect oil dipsticks have also caused engine damage in some cases. Transmission complaints are less severe but include rough shifting at low speeds and delayed engagement from a stop. These issues are usually addressed with software updates or recalibration. Electrical and Software Problems Electrical issues are common, including warning lights activating without cause, infotainment system glitches, and sensor errors. While these rarely prevent driving, they can lead to frequent dealership visits and affect owner confidence. Lane-keeping assist, traction control, and brake system alerts may also appear unexpectedly, particularly in newer models. Build Quality and Exterior Concerns Owners report hardtop defects, such as cracking, delamination, and poor fit, especially in early removable hardtops. Ford has replaced some early hardtops with the updated MIC 2.0 version under warranty, but issues like honeycombing or leaks may persist. Other build-quality complaints include interior rattles, loose trim, and water leaks around roof panels. Recalls and Safety Concerns The 2021 and 2022 Bronco models experienced multiple recalls and NHTSA complaints, including airbag sensor malfunctions, seatbelt latch problems, and windshield breakage. The 2022 model had nine recalls affecting over 175,000 vehicles, while the 2023 model had eight recalls with safety concerns like child safety lock malfunctions. Later models, such as 2023–2024, show fewer recalls and improved reliability. To sum up the Wrangler issues: Engine Problems: Certain models, with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, experienced oil contamination, misfires, rough idling, and valve timing issues, sometimes leading to engine seizure. Electrical and Steering Issues: JL models had frame welding defects, “death wobble” steering problems, and Uconnect infotainment glitches, which were mostly resolved by mid-2019. Rust and Frame Integrity: Older TJ models (1997–2006) are praised for mechanical simplicity but may suffer from rust and frame issues, especially in regions with heavy road salt use. Recalls: Wranglers have had recalls for airbags, power steering, and, in 2025, fire risks in 4xe plug-in hybrid models.

The interior is gorgeous but I think there is a reason the press photos were dark on dark. This isn’t pretty in person. This might be a vehicle where the only correct color selection is black.

I get what your saying, but that belt line is just so bunker look and I hate it.

I think it has a pretty sharp looking front end now. That seems much improved. The lighting elements could maybe be a little larger. The interior looks like a nice place to occupy, but the damn screen that "isn't attached" all the way around drives me a little nuts. I also like how they use the center console area with the storage underneath (I know quite a few companies are utilizing this space now, and I like it). It looks like a good overall family hauler. HOWEVER, the one glaring issue and the one reason I wouldn't consider it, is the 2.0T engine. So they already had the 2.0T in the Atlas but they're giving it a few extra ponies but it's going to have LESS torque??? I just can't see a world where a vehicle this size should lose torque, unless the new torque curve is drastically different and produces all of its peak from like 1000-2500rpm. It just seems like it'll be a dog to drive around. I realize people don't need or want racecars as daily drivers or family vehicles, but I've already heard from a couple people who compared the current 2.0T to the VR6 and they hated how the 2.0T drove in comparison. Both ended up in a VR6 Atlas.