The hard-core, off-road SUVs are again in the focus and this currently narrow market will soon get new contenders. The new-generation Wrangler is here and Land Rover Defender is under rigorous testing ahead of the approaching debut. Another hardcore SUV likely most anticipated and rumored so far is also getting closer to the launch and we are speaking about the 2021 Ford Bronco.
The new generation Bronco will replace the full-size version which was axed in mid-1990 but it will take the mid-size form. The new version will be a direct rival to the Jeep Wrangler and should be available in various configurations. The model will appear in two-door body style and four-door version. There could also be a pickup truck variant as an alternative to the Wrangler-based Jeep Gladiator. Ford will also bring the baby Bronco version and there are reports about the Bronco Raptor model as well.
The new Bronco will have a lot in common with the mid-size Ranger including the 2.3-liter engine. A more powerful V-6 unit should also appear but the new millennium Bronco should also get a hybridized version.
2021 Ford Bronco: Design
The new generation 2021 Ford Bronco will remain the truck-based SUV but this time the model will come in the mid-size form. The previous Bronco was a full-size model based on the F-Series chassis while the new version will share the underpinning with the next-generation Ranger. Two models will also share the assembly lines at the Michigan plant.
Retro styling, Removable doors:
From the visual perspective, the new Bronco should remain a boxy silhouette model with retro styling. The model will have a bold, rectangular grille and should return with the circular headlights. The Bronco will also have removable doors and roof and should appear with the A-pillar installed side mirrors to keep them in place when the doors are removed.
The new Bronco will also offer various body styles including two- and four-door versions while there could be the pickup model as well.
The upcoming Bronco could also use a smart tactic and come with the tubular doors mounted inside the regular doors which would save the buyers of the aftermarket purchase and likely gain additional points for the new Bronco.
Interior, Equipment:
There are no many details about the next Bronco’s interior. The model’s interior will likely share design cues with Blue Oval’s new trucks and SUVs.
It will provide less cargo space and passenger room than the previous full-size version but there will be modern tech and comfort features. The model will come with a modern center stack and infotainment system from the base version. Available will also be the comfort and tech upgrades in the upper grades.
The Bronco will also use modern active safety technologies and multiple cameras to improve the safety and awareness of the driver and passengers.
2021 Ford Bronco: Powertrains
Ford hasn’t yet revealed many details about the 2021 Ford Bronco including also what powering options it has in mind.
The sure bet is, however, a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine form the recently returned Ford Ranger. The units make 270 hp and torque of 310 pound-feet. The new Bronco should also provide more powerful options and should adopt some of the twin-turbo units from Ford’s engine lineup. A 2.7-liter bi-turbo V-6 which makes 335 hp and torque of 380 pound-feet in the Edge ST is a possible candidate. A larger and more powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 from the Explorer ST could also be available producing around 400 horsepower.
The new model will use a 10-speed automatic transmission in most configurations but could also offer a 7-speed manual gearbox. There will also be two- and four-wheel-drive setups at disposal. The new-generation Bronco will also get a hybridized version at some point likely with the similar setup as in the new Explorer Hybrid.
The reports suggest also the Bronco Raptor version. The model will possess formidable off-road capability by default but the off-road specialized trim with the specially tuned suspension, limited-slip rear differential, skid plates and more off-road goodies will surely be available.
2021 Ford Bronco: Release, Price
After many years of rumors, the new 2021 Ford Bronco should go on sale late in 2020. More details will emerge in the meantime. The legendary SUV should cost from the mid-$30, 000. The new Bronco could be marketed globally.