After a 25-year hiatus, the Ford Bronco is coming back, hitting dealerships in 2021. Though built on a Ford Ranger frame, the Ford Bronco isn’t a truck. No, the Bronco is a midsize sport utility vehicle. This crossover vehicle meets the demand for more, more, more SUVs. The domestic market can’t get enough of them. You would be forgiven for believing that the Ford Bronco will look like the overseas SUV, the Ford Everest, adapted for North American buyers. But Ford officials have confirmed that the Bronco will be its own vehicle. And that’s an exciting prospect. So, what can we expect from the 2021 Ford Bronco, which is hitting dealerships at the latter end of 2020? We’ll cover that in this preview guide.
Level Up with a Bronco Hybrid
You probably didn’t expect this one, but it’s no longer 1996. The 2021 Ford Bronco is all grown up and offering cutting-edge features like a hybrid engine. In fact, take a look at Ford’s entire lineup in the next couple of years and you’ll see plenty hybrid engines finding homes in a Ford. The only thing we know is that the Ford Bronco Hybrid will resemble the engines found on the Ford Explorer and Escape. So it’s probably a safe bet that the Bronco will sport a 3.3-liter V-6 paired to an electric motor and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Under the Hood
While we’re on the topic of engines, you’re probably wondering what’s under the hood of the all-new Ford Bronco. While we don’t know for sure, Ford will probably pull from existing models. We’re thinking maybe the 2.3-liter turbo-four that makes 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque in the Ranger. Ford also offers more than one twin-turbo V-6 engine. A 10-speed automatic will probably be the transmission on offer, but Ford might surprise us with a seven-speed manual.
No Roof, No Doors, No Problem
As the saying goes, the proof is in the patent, or something like that. Ford has recently applied for two patents that may find their way onto the Ford Bronco, which thematically fits what these innovations are setting out to do. The first patent is a dual-layer retractable cloth that can be drawn back partially or removed completely for an open-air ride. Another patent displays doors with removable beams that slide out and attach on the hinges for off-road use. We’re excited to potentially see these on the Bronco and perhaps a few other Ford vehicles.
Boxy and Bold
Without a doubt, the Ford Bronco will look modern but this midsize SUV will retain its historically boxy look. No reason to resurrect the Bronco name and not cash in on that classic look. Expect a boxy frame and rounded headlights for a retro feel, but with plenty of upgrades and innovations to give this Ford a look all its own.