The 2021 Nissan Ariya brings electric style. The Ford Bronco brings off-road power. Which used SUV fits your lifestyle?
Two very different SUVs landed on the used market from the 2021 model year—Nissan’s quietly sophisticated all-electric Ariya and Ford’s rugged off-road-ready Bronco. Both offer compelling reasons to buy used and appeal to distinctly different drivers. Whether you want cutting-edge electric comfort or classic trail-busting capability, these recent models are worth a close look.
First up is the Nissan Ariya, an electric SUV that blends modern technology with comfort.
2021 Nissan Ariya
The Ariya marked a significant step for Nissan into the electric vehicle (EV) market, blending modern design with practicality.
Inside, the Ariya featured a minimalist interior with a flat floor and spacious cabin. The “Zero Gravity” seats, designed to reduce driver fatigue by evenly supporting the body, aim to provide extra comfort on long drives. Some users found the infotainment system slow to respond, which could be a consideration when shopping used.
Performance-wise, the Ariya offered a smooth, quiet ride. The battery placement under the floor helped keep a low centre of gravity, providing a stable driving experience, though it wasn’t the most thrilling on the road. With an estimated driving range of around 482 km per charge, it meets or exceeds many competitors in the EV segment.
Tech features included Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite—lane-keeping assist, emergency braking and an augmented reality head-up display projecting navigation cues directly in the driver’s line of sight. Some owners reported occasional infotainment glitches requiring dealer updates.
Because the Ariya was a new model in 2021, long-term reliability data remained limited. Early owners noted occasional software issues affecting driver aids and the infotainment system. Battery health was generally good, but buyers should verify warranty coverage on the lithium-ion pack, typically around eight years or 160,000 km. Maintenance was lower than gasoline vehicles but still required attention to battery cooling systems and brakes, especially given regenerative braking’s impact on wear.
2021 Ford Bronco
In contrast, the 2021 Ford Bronco revived a classic nameplate with rugged off-road capability and a more traditional SUV feel.
Ford’s Bronco made a highly anticipated return in 2021, reviving a classic nameplate with modern off-road capability.
The interior focused on practicality over luxury. Some owners noted basic materials but praised the functional layout and comfort for both daily use and trail driving.
Under the hood, buyers could choose between a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder or a 2.7-litre V6. Off-road features like the G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) driving modes, terrain settings that adjust the vehicle’s performance to conditions such as sand, mud or rocks, and Trail Turn Assist enhanced its rugged appeal.
Tech-wise, the Bronco came with a user-friendly infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered larger touchscreens and premium audio. A few users experienced minor issues with frameless windows needing resetting or resealing.
Regarding maintenance, early Bronco buyers reported recalls related to software and stability control that required dealer fixes. The frameless window design sometimes caused issues. Off-road use accelerated wear on suspension and drivetrain parts, so a thorough inspection of these components was advisable. Regular brake checks were important due to spirited driving styles encouraged by the Bronco’s capabilities. Despite these concerns, many owners found the Bronco dependable and rugged.
While these two vehicles couldn’t be more different, each offers unique advantages and challenges for used buyers.
Buying used 2021 models is increasingly attractive as these vehicles age out of their original warranties and prices start to drop, making it a good time to consider these relatively recent releases.
Our verdict
The 2021 Nissan Ariya and 2021 Ford Bronco each bring distinct strengths to the used SUV market. The Ariya suited drivers looking for a modern, comfortable electric vehicle with relatively low maintenance but some early software quirks. The Bronco appeals to those craving classic off-road ability backed by modern tech but demands careful inspection for recalls and wear from adventurous use. Buyers considering either model should have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection to ensure peace of mind.
| Auto Desk
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