2021 Ford Bronco Badlands is ready for adventure

After delays and shortages, Ford's rough-and-ready Bronco finally hit the road this year.

The upright style, capable suspension and potent powertrain put the Bronco in direct competition with the Jeep Wrangler.

More approachable on-road performance and confident handling give the Ford an edge over the Jeep as a daily driver.

The Ford also boasts a more modern suite of driver-assistance and infotainment technologies.

The Bronco Badlands' beefed-up suspension and 33-inch tires improve off-road handling without much compromise on the highway.

The Bronco's price was already a bit of a sore spot, so the 2022 model's $400 to $800 price increase is particularly painful.

As tested, this Badlands model with the EcoBoost V6 engine costs $55,565, which is getting into Land Rover Defender 90 territory.

Despite the delays, shortages and dealer markups, the Bronco still manages to raise the bar for this rugged corner of the SUV market.

Check out our full review of the 2022 Ford Bronco Badlands for more details and impressions.

You can also just continue enjoying these photos -- I certainly enjoyed taking them.