Built for adventure and engineered to conquer any terrain, the Ford Bronco stands out with its innovative G.O.A.T. Modes, short for Goes Over Any Type of Terrain. In this guide, we’ll break down what G.O.A.T. Modes are, how they work, and why they make such a difference, whether you’re cruising city streets, tackling muddy trails, or climbing rocky terrain. By understanding each mode and its purpose, you’ll see how the Bronco adapts to your driving style and environment, delivering confidence, control, and off-road capability wherever the road or trail takes you.
What are the G.O.A.T. Modes Available?
Each mode adjusts key vehicle settings such as throttle response, transmission shift points, traction control, and drivetrain engagement to match the terrain beneath your tires. Whether you’re commuting on pavement or exploring challenging off-road trails, G.O.A.T. Modes help the Bronco deliver confident handling, enhanced traction, and trail-ready capability at the turn of a dial.
Available Ford Bronco G.O.A.T. Modes include:
Normal – Ideal for everyday driving with balanced comfort and efficiency
Eco – Optimizes fuel efficiency during highway and city driving
Sport – Sharpens throttle response and steering for a more dynamic feel
Slippery – Enhances traction on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads
Sand – Improves momentum and throttle control on loose, sandy surfaces
Mud/Ruts – Maximizes traction in muddy or deeply rutted terrain
Rock Crawl – Designed for low-speed control and precision over rocky trails
How Do You Use the G.O.A.T. Modes?
Using the G.O.A.T. Modes on the Ford Bronco is simple and intuitive, allowing you to tailor the vehicle’s performance to your driving environment with ease. By turning the drive mode selector dial on the center console, you can choose the mode that best matches the terrain you’re facing, and the Bronco will automatically adjust throttle response, transmission behavior, traction control, and drivetrain settings to optimize capability. Whether you’re switching to Slippery mode for rainy roads, Sand mode for beach driving, or Rock Crawl for technical off-road trails, G.O.A.T. Modes take the guesswork out of driving and help you stay confident and in control wherever your adventure leads.
Key Off-Road Features
Beyond its G.O.A.T. Modes, the Ford Bronco is packed with purpose-built off-road features that make it a true trail machine. Available advanced 4x4 systems with a two-speed electronic transfer case provide enhanced control in demanding conditions, while features like front and rear locking differentials help maximize traction on uneven terrain. The Bronco’s high ground clearance, short overhangs, and available heavy-duty skid plates protect critical components when navigating rocks and obstacles. Additional off-road highlights such as trail-tuned suspension options, available disconnecting front stabilizer bar for improved wheel articulation, and underbody protection all work together to deliver confidence, durability, and capability when the pavement ends.
Upgraded Hoss Suspension System to Take You Anywhere
The Ford Bronco’s available HOSS (High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension) takes off-road capability to the next level by delivering improved wheel travel, enhanced shock absorption, and exceptional stability over rough terrain. Designed to handle the demands of aggressive trail driving and high-speed desert runs, the upgraded HOSS suspension system features position-sensitive dampers that automatically adjust to changes in terrain, keeping the Bronco composed and controlled whether you’re climbing rocks, powering through whoops, or cruising uneven trails. With HOSS, you get greater articulation, better ride comfort, and confidence-inspiring performance that lets you focus on the adventure ahead, not the obstacles beneath you.
How Much Ground Clearance Does a Ford Bronco Have?
The Ford Bronco delivers impressive ground clearance that helps it tackle rocks, roots, and other obstacles with confidence when you’re off the pavement. Depending on the model and equipment, most Bronco SUVs offer ground clearance ranging from around 8.3 inches on base configurations up to 11.6 inches with the available Sasquatch Package, giving you plenty of space between the terrain and the underside of the vehicle for rugged trail performance. On high-capability trims like the Bronco Raptor, that clearance can reach about 13.1 inches, making it even more capable on rough, uneven surfaces. This elevated stance, combined with optimized approach, breakover, and departure angles, helps the Bronco navigate challenging terrain without compromising capability.
Visit Capital Ford of Hillsborough and View Our Ford Bronco Models Today
Ready to experience adventure up close? Visit Capital Ford of Hillsborough in Hillsborough, NC, today to explore our impressive lineup of Ford Bronco models in person. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged capability of the base Bronco or the trail-ready performance of a higher trim, our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help you find the Bronco that fits your lifestyle and off-road goals. Stop by our showroom to view available Broncos, take a walkaround to see features like G.O.A.T. Modes, HOSS suspension, and available 4x4 systems, and take a test drive to feel the capability for yourself. At Capital Ford of Hillsborough, we’re committed to providing an easy, no-pressure experience and helping you get behind the wheel of your next Ford Bronco.



















