The Return of an Icon: Ford Resurrects the Bronco

After a 25-year hiatus, Ford resurrected one of its most beloved nameplates, creating immediate buzz and unprecedented demand. The reintroduction of the Ford Bronco has made it one of the most sought-after vehicles in the used SUV market, with enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike clamouring to get their hands on this modern classic.

The new Ford Bronco pays homage to its roots while embracing modern technology and capabilities. Available in both two-door and four-door configurations, the new model was designed to challenge the Jeep Wrangler’s dominance in the off-road SUV segment. The nostalgic styling combined with contemporary features has created a perfect storm of desirability.

Nostalgic Design Meets Modern Styling

One of the primary reasons for the incredible demand is its unmistakable design. Ford deliberately returned to the source of inspiration – the original 1966 Bronco – to create a vehicle that captures the essence of the iconic first generation. The squared-off silhouette, round headlights, and boxy proportions immediately evoke the classic aesthetic while incorporating modern elements.

Exceptional Off-Road Capability

Beyond its looks, the Bronco delivers exceptional off-road capability. With up to 294 mm of ground clearance, a 29-degree breakover angle, and 37.2-degree departure angle, it can tackle serious terrain right from the factory. It’s also capable of fording water up to 851 mm deep, making it a true off-road champion.

Powerful Powertrain Options

The powertrain options further enhance the Bronco appeal. The base 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine produces 270 horsepower, while the optional 2.7L EcoBoost V6 delivers an impressive 310 horsepower and 542 Nm of torque. Perhaps most exciting for enthusiasts is the availability of a seven-speed manual transmission (six-speed plus crawler gear) alongside the 10-speed automatic option.

Endless Customization Possibilities

Customization is another factor driving the desirability of the Bronco. Ford offers a vast array of factory-backed accessories – over 200 options – allowing owners to personalize their vehicles to suit their individual needs. The removable doors and roof panels (which can be stored onboard in two-door models) provide the open-air experience many adventure seekers crave, rivalling the Wrangler’s signature feature.

Diverse Trim Levels for Every Adventure

The Bronco is available in multiple trim levels, ranging from the base model to the more rugged Black Diamond and the high-end Outer Banks and Wildtrak variants. Each offers distinct features catering to different types of users – from casual weekend warriors to hardcore off-road enthusiasts.

G.O.A.T. Modes: Terrain-Conquering Technology

What makes the Bronco particularly special is its G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes, offering seven driver-selectable settings: Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Baja, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl. This technology allows drivers to optimize vehicle performance for specific conditions at the turn of a dial.

Modern Comfort Meets Rugged Practicality

The Bronco doesn’t sacrifice modern amenities for off-road prowess. Inside, you’ll find a 12-inch touchscreen with the SYNC 4 system, off-road navigation capabilities, and a 360-degree camera system with off-road spotter views. Practical features like washable rubberized floors with integrated drains and marine-grade vinyl seating make cleanup after adventures a breeze.

The Coveted Sasquatch Package

The Sasquatch Package is perhaps the most coveted option, featuring 35-inch mud-terrain tires on 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, high-clearance suspension with Bilstein position-sensitive shock absorbers, and front and rear locking differentials. This package transforms the already capable Bronco into an extraordinary off-road machine.

High Demand in the Used Market

Limited initial production combined with pandemic-related manufacturing challenges made the Bronco scarce when new, further driving up demand in the used market. Those who missed out on first allocations now eagerly seek these vehicles on the pre-owned market, often willing to pay premiums for well-equipped examples.

Five Fascinating Bronco Facts

1. The original 1966 Bronco was the first vehicle to be officially marketed as a “Sport Utility Vehicle,” pioneering the term “SUV” that would later become ubiquitous in the automotive industry.

2. The modular design allows owners to remove doors and store them onboard, while door mirrors are mounted to the cowl rather than the doors themselves, maintaining visibility when doors are removed.

3. Ford engineers tested the Bronco durability by subjecting it to the equivalent of 240,000 km of punishing off-road conditions before releasing it to the public.

4. The “Trail Turn Assist” feature can lock the inside rear wheel in tight turns, reducing the turning radius by up to 40% on challenging trails.

5. Every Bronco comes with trail maps built into its navigation system, allowing owners to find and follow established off-road routes even without cellular connectivity.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Ford Bronco 

What engines are available in the Ford Bronco?

• It comes with two engine options: a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder producing 270 horsepower and a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 generating 310 horsepower and 542 Nm of torque.

Does the Bronco come with a manual transmission?

• Yes, this SUV offers a unique seven-speed manual transmission (six standard gears plus a crawler gear) with the 2.3L engine. A 10-speed automatic is also available with both engine options.

What is the Sasquatch Package?

• This package includes 35-inch mud-terrain tires, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, high-clearance suspension, Bilstein shock absorbers, and front and rear locking differentials for enhanced off-road capability.

Can you remove the roof and doors on the Bronco?

• Yes, both two-door and four-door models feature removable roof panels and doors. The two-door model can store the front roof panels onboard.

What is the water fording depth of the Bronco?

• It can ford water up to 851 mm deep, making it highly capable of crossing streams and flooded areas.

What are G.O.A.T. modes?

• G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes are driver-selectable settings that optimize vehicle performance for different conditions, including Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Baja, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl.

Is the Bronco based on a truck chassis?

• Yes, it features a body-on-frame construction similar to Ford trucks, providing durability and off-road capability.

How many trim levels does the Bronco offer?

• It was initially offered in multiple trim levels, including Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Badlands, and Wildtrak, each with different features and capabilities.

Does the Bronco have modern technology features?

• Yes, it offers modern technology, including SYNC 4 with an available 12-inch touchscreen, a 360-degree camera system with off-road views, and a trail navigation system.

How does the Bronco compare to the Jeep Wrangler in off-road capability?

• This Ford SUV matches or exceeds the Wrangler in many off-road metrics, including ground clearance, water fording depth, and available technology. It offers similar open-air capabilities with removable doors and roof panels.