Ford is not really playing. After a 24-year break, the Bronco is back, and wants nothing more than to hit the Jeep Wrangler in a dirty presentation. And by virtue of its specification, appearance, and price, it could well do just that.
Available with two or four doors, the great Bronco (there’s also a smaller Bronco Sport. More on that in a moment) is based on the same platform as the Ford Ranger truck: a “fully boxed, heavy-duty steel chassis “which allows 17% more suspension travel than” the closest competitor “.
Naturally, all-wheel drive is standard: cars with basic specs get a “two-speed electronic transfer case with quick change”, while the “Advanced” system has a two-speed electromechanical transfer case for change automatic between 2H and 4H.
As for the engines, you have the option of a four cylinder with 270 hp and 310 lb ft, or a 2.7 liter V6 with 310 hp and 400 lb ft. Both turbocharged, both gasoline, both with ten-speed automatic transmissions. The four-cylinder has the option of a smart seven-speed manual though: six regular ratios plus a caterpillar gear for the really serious stuff.
0-62 mph? Maximum speed? Not important. We’ve got more Bronco-y numbers for you: Ford promises 11.6 inches (295 mm) of ground clearance, 29 and 37.2-degree breakout and departure angles, and a wading depth of 33.5 inches (851 mm) . The independent front suspension (an optional semi-active front stabilizer bar disconnects for better axle articulation) is backed by a solid five-link axle at the rear.
You can get 35-inch wheels and Beadlock wheels (FROM THE FACTORY), plus more serious off-road technology like Bilstein long-travel, position-sensitive shock absorbers and Spicer electronic locking differentials. High-specification Broncos have steel shields to protect the engine, transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank from damage, and may have high-strength steel bumpers with room for an integrated winch, plus “rails of rock “strong enough to support the entire 4×4. weight.
There are up to seven drive modes, including Sand / Baja, Mud / Ruts, and Rock Crawl. The Trail Control is effectively a low-speed cruise control, while the Trail Turn Assist uses torque vectoring to tighten the Bronco’s turning radius by over-accelerating the outer wheel. Meanwhile, the satellite navigator gives access to topographic maps of trails.
That’s it for the technology (there are many more that we haven’t mentioned …), now in design. As expected, Ford has taken the retro route. In fact, the design work began with a 3D scan of the first-generation Bronco “which served to influence the proportions and design” of the new one. We think it looks great.
The two-door Broncos have a roof that can be removed in three sections, while the four-door models have four removable sections and an optional soft top. All Broncos have removable frameless doors as well as lightweight front wings that can also serve as tie downs.
Inside, we assume that if you have removed the roof and the doors are not really inside, the materials are strong and durable. Some models have hose interiors with marine grade vinyl seats and drain plugs. The screen measures up to 12 inches wide and runs Ford’s latest SYNC4 infotainment system, plus there’s a top dash mount point for a “bring your own device rack” for phones, GoPros, etc.
Seven different Bronco specs are offered, all of which look great, plus a ton of options (get the Sasquatch package, trust us) and over 200 accessories you can get from your dealer (light bars, those holes doors and so … in).
Prices start at $ 29,995 for the two-door, the equivalent of around £ 23,700. Probability of reaching the UK on the right hand drive? Slim to nonexistent, which is horrible news. But hey, you can always buy one and stick it in a boat at Blighty. We’re Tempted Americans can reserve one now for $ 100 on the Ford website.
Would it tempt you out of a Wrangler? Or even a Land Rover Defender? Comment below.
Ford Bronco Sport
The Bronco Sport is not a Bronco. It’s a Ford Kuga / Focus with a Bronco-inspired body, making it much smaller. However, Ford claims it will be a good off-roader, with standard four-wheel drive, Bronco’s great terrain management system and electronics and serious suspension (hydraulic rebound stops, 46mm diameter monotube rear shocks). . It can even go through 600mm of water, which isn’t bad for an SUV of this size / type. It seems like a pretty useful kit for us. It’s a shame that, like the great Bronco, it probably won’t make it to the UK.
